For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. (Romans 13:6-7)
Romans 13:6-7 reminds us of the importance of honoring our obligations as believers, both to our governing authorities and to one another. Paul encouraged us to pay our taxes, our debts and to give respect to our leaders.
We should do these things, not simply as a legal or civic duty, but also as a spiritual one. God says that leaders and authority over you have things that are due to them from others. It may be taxes, customs, reverence, or honor. But as followers of Christ, we are called to recognize a divine purpose in our agreement to give what is due.
In our daily lives, this principle means being faithful to our commitments to fulfilling all the tasks that we are responsible for. It is a reminder that integrity and respect should characterize our financial dealings and other interactions with the world. By living by the principles God outlines in His Word toward what is due, we not only are right with the law but also live out our faith in tangible ways that others can see. We demonstrate our commitment to honesty, respect, and financial integrity, reflecting the character of Christ to the world.
Living amid a world that often is flaky with financial ethics, these verses remind us that our financial decisions reflect our spiritual values. They challenge us to honor God in our financial affairs, not only through our giving to leaders in honor, and giving to the church, but also through making sure that we give back what we owe.
Practical Application
Get out of debt as soon as you can, but also ensure that you do not neglect to give what you owe to Godly leaders and those in authority. When you honor your financial obligations, you not only do what is legal, you also display your faith in Jesus Christ through how you handle the real-life issue of finances.