praying effectively: Taxes and Tithes (Matt.22, Mk.12, Lk.20)

(Matthew 22:15-22)  Then the Pharisees went and plotted together how they might trap Him in what He said. 16 And they sent their disciples to Him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that You are truthful and teach the way of God in truth, and defer to no one; for You are not partial to any. 17 Tell us then, what do You think? Is it lawful to give a poll-tax to Caesar, or not?” 18 But Jesus perceived their malice, and said, “Why are you testing Me, you hypocrites? 19 Show Me the coin used for the poll-tax.” And they brought Him a denarius. 20 And He said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” 21 They said to Him, “Caesar’s.” Then He said to them, “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God the things that are God’s.” 22 And hearing this, they were amazed, and leaving Him, they went away.

Reminder:  "praying effectively" involves knowing God's will.  When we pray in His will (in His name), He may choose to not answer those prayers in the time period that we would like, or HOW we would like - but He will answer those prayers!

It is God's will:

- that we are to pay our taxes (Mt.22:21, Mk.12:17, Lk.20:25)

- that we are to tithe (Mt.22:21, Mk.12:17, Lk.20:25)

Today's prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, thank You so much for all that You have provided.  You have blessed us exceedingly.  May we be grateful and not take that for granted.  Help us to be honest and faithful in paying our taxes in respect to our country and its laws.

As we faithfully tithe our ten percent (and more) of everything You give to us, help us trust in Your promises of making sure we are never in need.  Help us also realize that Your blessings are many and are far better than money.  And help us realize that whatever we give will go towards helping to build Your kingdom..  Amen.