Oct 20, 2026 Devotion

Day 2: Render What Belongs to God

Reading: Luke 20:21-25 -- Religious leaders attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus, perceiving their craftiness, asks whose image is on the coin and declares that what bears Caesar's image belongs to Caesar, and what belongs to God should be rendered to God.

Devotional: Jesus answered a political trap with an eternal truth. The coin bore Caesar's image, so Caesar could claim it. But the deeper question Jesus left unanswered -- deliberately -- was this: if the coin belongs to Caesar because it carries his image, then what belongs to God? You do. Your entire life, your mind, your time, your relationships, your resources -- all of it carries the imprint of the One who made you. The world will always try to claim your allegiance, your attention, and your devotion. Caesar comes in many forms today. But God's claim on your life runs deeper than any earthly authority. He does not want a portion. He desires your whole heart.

Personal Reflection: In what areas of your life have you been giving God your leftovers rather than your first and best? Be honest with yourself today.

Practical Application: Take a piece of paper and write down the top five things that currently receive the most of your time and energy each week. Prayerfully evaluate whether God is truly at the top of that list or somewhere further down.