Day 65/260: Read Romans 13

Have you paid your taxes yet? Tax time is never a fun time, even if the deadline has been delayed temporarily. But God says we have an obligation to support the government under which we live.

The Jews who lived under Roman rule tested Jesus with the question of taxes. Jesus asked whose image and inscription appeared on their money, then told them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (Luke 20:25).

Paul repeated the Lord’s command in Romans 13, stating that governing authorities “are appointed by God.” Remember that Paul lived under Roman rule, and both Jews and Christians were often persecuted by the government in the first century. Despite this, he wrote, “For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil.”

Abiding by the laws of the land, inasmuch as they do not contradict or cause you to disobey God, is commanded by God. “Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.”

Memory (Recite to a friend without looking)

Romans 10:10. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Pray

Pray for the governing authorities, that they will allow you to live a godly life in peace.