The scripture says in Proverbs 18:16, “A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.”

People often interpret this “gift” as referring to our talents or abilities. But Proverbs 19:6 says, “Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts.” That same Hebrew word is translated “gifts” again, and it is clearly referring to something of monetary value.

So, Proverbs 18:16 isn’t speaking about some gifting or anointing being the thing that makes room for us and brings us before great men. It’s talking about a monetary gift; something tangible we give that promotes us.

This is offensive to many people because we often see this only in the negative. Everyone should hate bribery and the corruption it causes. The Scriptures teach against that (Prov. 15:27; Ex. 18:21; 1 Tim. 3:3, 8; Titus 1:7; and 1 Pet. 5:2).

But gifts can be used in a positive way too. The same one–hundred–dollar bill that could bribe a person could be used to bless a person and show them the love of God. Money isn’t moral or immoral. It’s the heart intent of the person giving the money that turns it one way or the other.