Proverbs 18:5 Commentary and Bible Study

Both acts are manifestations of injustice. Here is a judge who has been called upon to deal with a case, but there are strong forces at work to pervert justice in order to promote some corrupt scheme. The judge is approached by those who are guilty to see if they can have any influence on him to change his mind. How much pressure can they bring to bear on his judgment? Is he willing to compromise his integrity when he sees what is at stake? Therefore they will start with subtle hints that if he were to rule in their favour, he would be handsomely rewarded. They realise that he is inclined to rule against them, but if he were to take account of this and that, he would start to see things in a different light. The case is not as clear cut as he makes out, and he needs to adjust his view of the case to see it more from their point of view. The judge knows that this cannot be done without partiality, without favouritism, because it is quite clear to him that justice lies on the other side. To rule in favour of one is to rule against the other, but if he does what is asked of him then he will have to go against the righteous and condemn them even though he knows they deserve to be vindicated. Can he bring himself to do it? If flattering words and inducements will not do it, then perhaps threats will have more effect. Perhaps the wicked have power and influence on their side. Justice should be unmoved by these things, but not every judge can stand against these things, so they will try it on.Justice must be of such importance to the child of God that he would forsake the whole world rather than agree to pervert it for his own advantage. He must be incorruptible, and especially is this the case with those who are called to lead God’s people. They must be immune from all pressure either positive or negative, no matter how subtly it comes to them. They are accountable to God with whom there is perfect justice. What pressure can be brought on the Lord to alter his righteous verdict? The same should be true of all those who represent him.