Q&A with Ron Blue: A Biblical Mindset for Taxes

[Q] Ron, what is a biblical approach to taxes? [A] Scripture is clear: “Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s” (Matthew 22:21). Taxes are not optional—they’re part of our obedience to God. Romans 13 reminds us that governing authorities are established by Him, and honoring them includes paying what we owe. Over time, though, I’ve come to see taxes not just as an obligation, but as an opportunity to practice gratitude. [Q] Gratitude? That’s not how most people think about taxes. [A] I understand that reaction. But taxes are evidence of God’s provision. If you didn’t have income, you wouldn’t owe taxes. 42 Every time I write a check for estimated taxes, I say out loud, “Thank you, God, for providing me the opportunity to pay this tax.” That simple habit realigns my perspective. Instead of focusing on what’s leaving my hands, I’m reminded of what God has already provided. If everything belongs to Him, then paying taxes is simply another way to steward His provision.

If I truly believe God owns everything, I can hold my resources with an open hand. That changes how I give, how I spend, how I invest—and how I pay taxes.

[Q] That’s a major mindset shift. How do people get there? [A] It begins with one foundational question: Who owns it? If I believe I own my wealth, taxes will always feel like a loss. But if I truly believe God owns everything, I can hold my resources with an open hand. That belief reshapes how I give, how I spend, how I invest—and how I pay taxes. A closed hand says, “This is mine.” An open hand says, “This is God’s.” [Q] Where does tax planning fit into this? Should Christians still try to reduce taxes? [A] Yes. Wise and legal tax planning is part of good stewardship. There’s nothing wrong with reducing your tax burden if you do it with integrity. But don’t let the tax code dictate your values. For example, some people avoid paying off a mortgage because they don’t want to lose the deduction. But paying off debt is a guaranteed, risk-free return—and it often brings peace of mind. A tax deduction is never a good reason to stay in debt. [Q] Any final encouragement for someone dreading tax season? [A] Don’t let April become a month of frustration. Let it be a time of worship. Paying taxes reminds us that God is providing and that we’re stewarding what He’s entrusted to us. We can plan wisely, pay honestly, and do so with joy—not because the system is perfect, but because the Provider is faithful. Gratitude shifts our focus from loss to abundance.

This article was published in our Faithful Steward magazine, a quarterly publication filled with encouraging stories, biblical teaching, and practical tools to help you grow as a wise and joyful giver. If you'd like to begin receiving Faithful Steward, consider becoming a FaithFi partner.

Q&A with Ron Blue: A Biblical Mindset for Taxes

If I truly believe God owns everything, I can hold my resources with an open hand. That changes how I give, how I spend, how I invest—and how I pay taxes.

Related Articles

When Giving Becomes About Us

Giving as Worship, Not Leverage

When Giving Feels Like a Burden