Obedience to law defeats corruption

Much has been said about corruption in many parts of the world, including Brazil. The word corrupt can mean to “adulterate; pervert; bribe.” And to bribe is “to offer money or other valuables in order to achieve something opposed to justice, duty or morality” (Dictionary Aurélio of the Portuguese Language). 

Usually, we condemn corruption carried out by politicians, whose actions may sometimes be illegal, or legal but not moral. But are we watchful regarding our own obedience to law, including the moral law? For example, are we tempted to sneak into a waiting line ahead of others? Or to use resources at work for personal purposes without authorization? Do we always comply with the laws of our country? 

It is important to resist the influence that says, “Everybody does it.” Mary Baker Eddy, the Founder of Christian Science, writes, “Floating with the popular current of mortal thought without questioning the reliability of its conclusions, we do what others do, believe what others believe, and say what others say” (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, p. 228).