Romans 13:7, Render Therefore to All Their Dues

Romans 13:7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

The Apostle Paul exhorts to believers to discharge their God-given responsibility to the authorities has placed over them. He speaks of a whole-hearted submission that involves not just the heart (fear) but in our conduct (honour) and in our actions (tirbute and custom). He says be not slack in doing so.

If you received a summon or a fine, pay it promptly. There are those who do not bother and receive statements of warning and even court order. Oftentimes, it is not because there is no money by their side to pay but a “care-less” attitude. There is no fear of authority in their hearts. It is a sad reflection of the lack of God’s fear in their life, living their life as it pleases them. Trouble would inadvertently come their way, the long hand of the law, the chastisement hand of God, it will come.

These are wise words, sound advice that believers do well to take heed. The believers has not started practising what they ought to do and is urged to do so. May the Lord help us. Amen.