He said to them, “Then give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” Luke 20:25
Guess what day it is? This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it (Psalm 118:24). You thought I was going to say Tax Day :) Well it's that too!
We who file taxes year after year with the government are always trying to figure out the law and every loophole as to keep as much of the money earned in our pockets. Right? The loophole mistake if you will. That's OK. It's a legal and correct gesture to understand and apply the law correctly and reap the benefits.
How about what's due to God; ever thought of that? What does the law say? Have you read the Bible lately?
The Bible reminds me not to forsake the gathering of the saints (Hebrews 10:25), in other words, go to church on Sundays; keep that day apart and go and meet with Him. Every Sunday?
Forgive those who have wronged you. That's hard to do. Apart from the assistance of the Spirit of God, not sure I can that. How many times do I have to forgive them? (Matthew 18:21-22)
Tithe, what is that? Give how much money to the church? (Malachi 3:8-10 ) I'm not a thief; but what if I don't go to church that Sunday, do I still have to give my money?
These are just a few of the great benefits found in the Word of God. We at times distort them and then want to justify our behavior as well. Obeying the law, his guidelines, we will find ourselves blessed instead of in rebellion.
Imagine haggling with the government officials.
Well I was actually sick 10 days last year, so does that money have to be taxed; I mean, technically I was not working. It's a fringe benefit, why should I get taxed on that?
Dear IRS, last year you made a mistake and deducted extra monies due to an error on your part. I choose not to file this year. Let's call it even.
Life is expensive. I did not get a raise this year. I'm lowering my tax requirement. Is that OK with you?
Often either by an honest mistake or by blatant actions to cheat we keep what belongs to another, in this case Uncle Sam. We will pay and pay with a penalty! No mercy.
Have you given God what belongs to God? There are no loopholes in the Word of God because he does not make mistakes! What I have found is his mercy which allows me to begin again, Praise His Name! His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).
Today is Tax Day but also a new opportunity to experience God's mercy, his grace and loving kindness. It is our duty to understand the Scriptures; not to do like the fool who says there is no God and demonstrates it by his lifestyle. Bad decisions can lead to consequences but his mercy allows us to start again.
Give to God what belongs to God. You know what you've been holding back and struggling with. He wants it all--YOUR HEART (John 3:16)!
Bask in his mercy and start fresh today! No haggling required, just a surrendered heart and he'll meet you there. Guess what day it is? This is the day the Lord has made and I will rejoice in it!
