Calendar

“RENDER TO ALL THEIR DUES”
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19
Genesis 47:1-12

Psalm 40:9-17

 

ls the Lord pleased with me?

 

“RENDER TO ALL THEIR DUES”
 
So said the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Romans, “Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour” (Rom 13:7). Christians and believers ought therefore to pay due respect and honour to those in authority. Jacob’s family was accordingly presented before Pharaoh as a mark of respect and loyalty. After all, they were aliens, guests in the land, and recipients of Egyptian food and hospitality.
 
Notice how the sons of Jacob called themselves “servants” before Pharaoh, and how they entreated the king to “…let thy servants dwell in the land of Goshen” (Gen 47:4). After the brothers, Joseph presented his father Jacob. And Jacob blessed Pharaoh. Does it strike you as strange that the progenitor (forefather) of God’s people should bless a heathen king? But this is according to the teaching of God’s Word, wherever the powers-that-be exercise their rightful authority. Listen to the Apostle Paul: “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority…” (1 Tim 2:1-2).
 
On his part, Pharaoh graciously extended hospitality and land to Joseph’s family, saying, “The land of Egypt is before thee; in the best of the land make thy father and brethren to dwell; in the land of Goshen let them dwell: and if thou knowest any men of activity among them, then make them rulers over my cattle” (Gen 47:6).
 
In the past, the Singapore Government exhorted us with the slogan, “Courtesy is our way of life.” Courtesy must naturally include respect, tribute and honour towards those in authority over us. Similarly in church and at home, may the same message be observed: render to all their dues! Good Christians are courteous people!
 
THOUGHT: (Read Psalm 37:18-19.)
PRAYER: Father, may my life be a good testimony for Thee and bring glory to Thy name.

Search