The Pharisees were always trying to trap Jesus about political topics. They asked if it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar. Jesus asked who was on the coin and what the inscription was. They said, “Caesar’s”. They were not prepared for His response… which is our verse. So, the question becomes, “Do we really give back to God all the things that He gives to us?”. The Bible talks about giving to God the ‘first fruits’ from the harvest. It means that we give to God first, trusting in Him to give us what we need from the remaining harvest. While our money all says, “In God We Trust”, it does not appear that we make that motto our life message. Let others see us being generous as an expression of our gratitude to God’s grace to us!
Please give this verse to family, friends, and anyone who may need this message. Ask if they enjoy paying taxes and if they think that they pay enough (you can probably guess their answer). Ask if they feel that they give ‘enough’ back to God for what He gives to them. See how they respond. Share with them what it means to you. Let them know that the amount we may give often reflects the gratitude that we have for His gifts to us. Can that be said of you? Remember to Time For God’s Word© often every day as you take out money or a credit card to pay for items or at 12:17 am or pm. When you think of this verse, continue to offer Him your thanks and praise. This would be a great Reminder on your phone at 12:17pm with the brief title, “Render to Caesar…” which should be enough to help trigger your memory. While we can never out-give God, it is great fun and a blessing to try.
Each month in our prayer cycle, we specifically ask that you focus prayers on family and friends. Sometimes we get so busy that we forget to give God thanks for all the people that He places in our lives. Let them know how much you love them… say the words… you can’t say it often enough. Ask if there are specific things that they would like you to pray for. Really listen. Then pray with them and for them. Let them know how much you appreciate them. Don’t miss this opportunity. Some may be shocked that you asked. They will get over it. Stay blessed and be a blessing. Pass it on to a world more focused on money than on the blessings which God provides… show them the better priority.
