Proverbs 15:27 He that is greedy of gain troubles his own house; but he that hates gifts shall live.
A judge, according to the Bible has to be wary of any kindness in the form of gifts coming from a citizenry, such as tickets to soccer games, dinners, vehicles, or paid vacations, even if such gifts were given to the judge at Christmas time. In fact, even unwarranted gifts from Santa Claws are off limits so as to preserve the integrity of the bench and also to keep a judge’s conscience free and clear void of all bias and pressure to manipulate the law.
In other words, if Santa Claws is coming down every chimney in the judge’s neighborhood, and in every residence he leaves only cheap gifts, and plastic toys from China, but when he reaches the judge’s house, he leaves him a brand new Bentley, that obviously is an unwarranted gift.
That is why the Bible says that gifts will pervert the rulings of judges, and because of this, they are to be strictly avoided. When the following passage is read and understood, you will observe that it makes no mention of good intentions. It says, do not accept gifts or favors, from persons, if you are a judge. However, the command against the practice of Quid pro quo is broader, and more extensive than many people realize, so, for the sake of clarity, let’s revisit the meaning thereof.
Proverbs 19:5 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape. 6 Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts.
May The Lord add His blessing to the study of His word. God bless!