The Daily Devotional
Monday, February 10, 2025
Give to the Emperor, Give to God
They answered, “The emperor’s.” Then he said to them, “Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” (Matthew 22:21)
Introduction
In this passage, Jesus is responding to a tricky question from the Pharisees about paying taxes to the Roman emperor. They hoped to trap Him in a politically charged issue, but Jesus redirects their attention to a deeper spiritual principle. By emphasizing the obligations we have toward earthly authorities and, more importantly, toward God, He invites us to consider the alignment of our practical responsibilities with our ultimate devotion to God.
Reflection
It’s tax time again, and if you’re like many of us, you’ve spent hours sorting through forms, receipts, and statements. Perhaps you’ve noticed that, even though you paid taxes throughout the year, you still owe more. It can feel discouraging or frustrating, yet Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 22 speaks to this very tension.
Imagine two circles drawn on a piece of paper—one labeled “Caesar” (representing earthly authorities and responsibilities) and the other labeled “God.” In our day-to-day lives, we balance these two “circles”: paying our bills, working our jobs, filing taxes, and also going to church, praying, serving, and loving others. While these can feel like opposing obligations, Jesus is reminding us that paying our taxes (giving to “Caesar” what belongs to Caesar) does not negate our higher calling to honor God (giving to God what belongs to God).
A modern-day illustration might be helpful: think about someone who diligently pays their taxes but cheats on their tithes or neglects charitable giving. They might feel justified in fulfilling their civic duty, yet overlook the sacred duty of generosity toward God and neighbor. On the other hand, imagine someone who is incredibly faithful in giving to the church but fails to pay their taxes or tries to evade them. Jesus’ words call us to practice integrity in both areas. We live under human governments but remain under the ultimate reign of God.
Application
1. Honor God with Integrity: As followers of Christ, we strive to be people of honesty and integrity. Paying what we owe in taxes is part of our witness—demonstrating that Christians respect the structures God allows to govern society.
2. Practice Stewardship: Pay attention to how you handle both your money and your time. God is not only Lord over your spiritual life but over every aspect of your life. Seek to be a good steward of your finances, ensuring that you give back to God through tithes, offerings, and acts of generosity.
3. Keep Perspective: While taxes can be frustrating, Jesus reminds us that our ultimate allegiance is to God. Earthly authorities have legitimate claims on us, but our highest commitment—our hearts, minds, and souls—belongs entirely to the Lord.
Conclusion
Jesus’ teaching about rendering to the emperor and rendering to God affirms that we live both in earthly structures and in the kingdom of God. During this tax season, as you endure the paperwork, the surprises, and perhaps even an additional amount due, remember that your ultimate treasure lies with the One who gave you life and salvation. Carry out your earthly responsibilities diligently, but never forget to offer your heart, worship, and obedience first and foremost to God.
Prayer
Dear Lord, Thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. Help me to live with integrity and honesty as I fulfill my responsibilities, including paying taxes. May I never lose sight of my higher calling to love and serve You with all my heart. Grant me peace when my earthly obligations feel overwhelming, and remind me that all I have and all I am belong to You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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