Package Deal

(Proverbs 9:9 KJV)  Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

What is the difference between a gift and a bribe?  I have asked myself this question at other times.  The two words seem to be used interchangeably in the Old Testament.  Here we have the verb “give” (5414).  This is the root word.  It would seem clear that a gift is acceptable and a bribe is not, at least in our modern, Western thinking.  This gives us another clue.

A gift that is a blessing makes the recipient “wiser” (2449).  I wonder if there is also an element of the character of the recipient.  In addition to being “wise” (2450) he is “righteous” (6662).  Personally I wonder if it is possible to be really wise without being righteous.  Righteousness is based in a fear of the Lord and that is where wisdom begins. 

So?  Do you desire the gift of wisdom?  Then one of your goals is to live an upright life and allow the Holy Spirit to straighten up your inner life.  It is a package.