5 December 2025
Paul moves the discussion of authority from belief to practice. He writes, “And for this reason you pay taxes, since the authorities are God’s servants, continually attending to these tasks” (Romans 13:6 CSB). Paying what is owed is not a civic nicety. It is obedience to God. Mark Penrith said, “God’s rulers work for you, so pay them what you owe, both your taxes, tolls, respect, and honour.” This is not optional generosity. It is commanded worship. We honour God by honouring those He has placed over us. We worship God through submission that affects our wallets, our words, and our attitudes.
Mark explained, “Pay your obligations to everyone. This is not a voluntary donation. It is a debt.” Paul continues, “Pay your obligations to everyone, taxes to those you owe taxes, tolls to those you owe tolls” (Romans 13:7 CSB). Taxes are not theft from the believer. They are the means God uses to fund His servants. When we pay what we owe, we declare that God rules over our finances and our country. Tolls and fees carry the same weight. We are not exempt because we dislike the system. We pay because God commands it. Mark said, “Submission is a faithful response to a faithful God.”
But Paul’s instruction goes deeper. He writes, “Respect to those you owe respect and honour to those you owe honour” (Romans 13:7 CSB). Respect is internal. Honour is external. Both are owed. Mark said, “Respect is an internal attitude of esteem. Honour is the tone we use when we speak about our leaders.” Even when leaders fail, we do not mock. We do not tear down. We model reverence because God is sovereign. Our tone reveals our theology. Our speech reveals our submission. Our obedience reveals our faith.
Mark reminded us, “Paying taxes is worship. Showing respect is worship. Rendering honour is worship.” Today, choose one debt to settle. Pay a bill. Renew a licence. Reconcile a strained relationship. Take one step where faith meets practice. Speak with your children about honouring teachers, police, and leaders. Not because they are perfect. Because God reigns.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to give what is due. Shape my heart to honour those You place in authority. Make my obedience worship unto You. Amen