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Jesus taught us to render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s. Since there are no Caesars in our lives, what does that mean to us today in our everyday worlds? We conclude our thoughts about conflicting priorities. I think this is a principle we need to understand very clearly.
If you think of your employer as “Caesar” in this case, how does this principle apply to you?
Well, first of all, what are the things you should be giving your employer—the things that are rightfully his or hers?
- Hard work. You must be careful to apply yourself conscientiously and work your full shift. A Christian should never take advantage of their employer by cheating them out of time or work that is due to them.
- Protection of the employer’s assets. Those pencils and pens, paper clips and pads supplied by your employer are not for your personal supply room at home. Expense accounts should be meticulously honest and fair.
- Loyalty. While you are taking your salary from that employer, you owe them respect and you should not be found stabbing them in the back or running them down to others.
But, on the other hand, what do you NOT owe your employer?
- Dishonesty of any sort. Lying for your employer is giving to them what is due to God. An employer has no right to ask an employee to lie or deceive in any way. This is where you need to take a stand and not render to that employer what is not due them.
- Participation in any activity that is dishonoring to God. Socializing after work can create some compromising situations. If you have to be a part of these in order to keep your job, it’s probably time to look for another job. You are rendering to Caesar the things that belong to God.
As we think about how to choose between conflicting priorities, we want to always remember that there are some clear lines to be drawn. Give to your employer what is due them. Jesus gave us that principle, and we should take it very seriously. But make certain you don’t get trapped into giving an employer what is God’s right to ask of you.
