TAXES

As we close the books on another tax year, I echo what countless Christian writers have said before me.  Pay your taxes.  Pay them with honesty and integrity.  Jesus said to, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s.” (Matt 22:21)  There is no way around it- the Christian must pay his taxes down to the last dime.  Unfortunately, many believers do not heed the instruction of scripture,  “Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.  For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing.  Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.” (Rom. 13:5-7) 

Plain and simple, “Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due.”  When Christians fudge on their taxes, it sends the message that morality is relative when personal gain is involved.  It sends the message that money is more important than integrity.  The IRS should be the last thing on the mind of the Christian filing his return, for “God will judge the secrets of men.” (Rom. 2:16)  The believer who has withheld earnings, not reported income, over deducted, etc. must face the following question, “Why would God bless your financial life/business when you have been dishonest in your management of what you currently have?”