7 Pay to all what is due to them—taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honour to whom honour is due.
Romans 13:7
Paul opens chapter 13 of Romans talking about a Christian’s relationship to authorities. Our culture today is certainly prone to question authority. We demonstrate against causes we feel are unjust. We probably try to get the best possible return from our income tax returns. Our news broadcasts are filled with experts sharing opinion on any topic. Tithing to God or the church is not automatic for most. Paul is writing to Christians who were subjects of the Roman Empire that did not even consider them citizens, perhaps inferior humans. For Paul to say that government is a tool of God and that Christians should respect those governing them is an amazing, conversation stopper, then and now.
Respecting a government that we really can’t see is part of what keeps order in society. We obey the traffic signals not because we particularly like the political party in power nor because we believe the speed limit should be 30 mph. In fact we would probably prefer it be 35 mph. Respecting the government is not so different from respecting God. We cannot see him and we sometimes do not agree with his rules. Forgiveness is not automatic or sharing our wealth is not easy. We might give from our surplus but giving when it hurts is something else. Respecting our authorities in the kingdom of this world may lay a foundation for respecting the authorities in the kingdom of heaven.
As you come to a “stop” sign today, ask yourself what God might be asking you to stop. Stop grumbling! Stop over eating! Stop being critical! Stop withholding love from someone just because your feelings got hurt! Stop making excuses for skipping prayer or reading the word! Try it for a day and see if it is not a blessing. Give honor to those to whom honor is due! Blessings.
On the Way to Wonder 