How in the world can a sermon be about Aretha and taxes? Well, it’s like this, paying taxes is a part of life. We can grumble all we want, but let’s look at what the scriptures say.
Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.
This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. — Romans 13:5-7
You may want to back up and read last week’s blog that explains a bit more about God’s hand in government and you can find that here.
As Aretha Franklin sings, you’ve got to have respect!
Respect and honor to the One who created us. The way we treat those in positions of authority are a reflection of our faith in God. If could be about paying taxes, the government, or politicians. We can fret about the future being in the hands of one political party or we can trust God because he is in control, no matter who wins the election.
Social media is filled with criticism and most of those who follow or comment are in agreement with the original poster. Anyone who goes against the thread of comments is either a troll looking to wreak havoc in a conversation or wanting to incite an argument.
We’ve created a god in our own image when he likes the same things we like and detests those we don’t like. We can become frustrate, angry, and disillusioned in the midst of this on going battle when we anticipate the fears we face.
Paul was in chains in a prison when he wrote to people who are disillusioned with government.
We respect and honor to whom we pay taxes. We’re doing more than being good citizens. This is a sign of respecting God’s authority.
As candidates sling mud at each other and cloud our ability to make a reasonable decision on who to vote for, God’s already got it figured out. He knows who will win the election and it may seem like the world is doomed if so and so gets elected, but do you trust that God is big enough to allow a government?
Israel wanted a king, but that wasn’t what God wanted. He knew that he had a plan to save the people through the one true King, Jesus Christ. But no, they wanted a king because everyone else had a king. (Just like us to want what everyone else had!)
God gave them what they wanted. King Saul, he was good looking, a healthy man who the people loved. But, he was a despicable, evil man and he wanted good for the country.
It’s important for us all to participate in civic responsibilities. Everyone has to play their part. Taxes allow our cities to function. We have police, firemen, teachers, and yes, even librarians to help us live safely within the laws that have been created for our safety.
Who would take care of the tree limbs that fall, dispose of the trash and sewage, and keep our water running to our homes. It’s more than a duty. It’s a responsibility that we should be glad to be able to support. God allows these systems. They actually provide services that Christians were originally responsible for. Somewhere along the line, we quit taking care of the widows, orphans and homeless. The Church stopped providing, so God allowed the Government to do what we were supposed to do.
There is never a time when God looks down and says, “well, I never saw that coming!”
When we respect and honor the people God put in charge, we are reflecting God’s character in us.
Now, don’t blindly agree. There will be times when we need to step up against corruption.
David had several opportunities to kill Saul, but he didn’t because he trusted that God would deal with him in his perfect timing.
- Who are those people in authority you disrespect?
- How can you show respect and honor because you trust God’s authority?
Allegiance to God comes first. Government officials hold temporary positions, but God’s authority is forever.
Remember Daniel’s story? He respected King Nebuchadnezzar even though he didn’t agree with all of his policies. But, he didn’t compromise. When the King’s edict went against God, Daniel honored God by breaking the law by praying to his God. We have to stand up for our faith without being disrespectful.
Learn to agree without being disagreeable.
Still pay your taxes, show respect and trust in God’s bigger plan!
See how this was about Aretha and taxes? 🙂
Until next week, read your Bible, talk to God, and tell him of the things you are thankful for.
In Faith,
Pam
Where God Leads 