Devotional Guide, Today’s Reading Monday February 6, 2023

Comment: In the context of the text for today, “gift” is used interchangeably for “bribe”. It is common knowledge that there are many today languishing in prison houses and other detention facilities, either on account of offences they did not commit or offences which ordinarily are open to bail but they have been denied their freedom simply because a person of influence somewhere has paid heavily for them to be locked up, and to remain so until they give order for their release. This is heartless and an act of wickedness, both on the part of their accusers and such public official entrusted to enforce the law. (Luke 3:12-14) It is a thing of pride for a Christian having “lived in all good conscience before God” to choose a good name over precious ointment as did Nehemiah the governor who denied himself of the benefits that came with public office unlike his predecessors who “were chargeable unto the people.” In his words, he distinguished himself “because of the fear of God.” – Nehemiah 5:14-15. See also Proverbs 22:1.