For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. — Romans 13:6

Ouch! Taxes are awful. But I have to admit that I like a lot of the things that those taxes pay for. Paul tells us in Romans 13 that God uses civil authorities to stop chaos, lawlessness, and anarchy. As a Christian, I don’t have to follow most laws because my faith in Jesus will control how I act much more than any law. But Paul says I have a duty (I “owe” it) to be a good citizen, a good steward of my money, a nice, respectful neighbor, and a person who gladly honors those who deserve it.

 

Thought

Ouch! Taxes are awful. But I have to admit that I like a lot of the things that those taxes pay for. Paul tells us in Romans 13 that God uses civil authorities to stop chaos, lawlessness, and anarchy. As a Christian, I don’t have to follow most laws because my faith in Jesus will control how I act much more than any law. But Paul says I have a duty (I “owe” it) to be a good citizen, a good steward of my money, a nice, respectful neighbor, and a person who gladly honors those who deserve it.

 

Prayer

Almighty God, I swear to you that I will serve you. Only you are Sovereign, King, and Ruler. But because you ask me to respect my government and because you have given me so much grace by putting me in a place like this, I promise to live today in a way that shows my loyalty to you, my citizenship in my country, and my respect for the people I meet. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.