Final answer:
The Byzantine government directed significant spending towards military actions to maintain a strong military and address threats, although spending on religious and infrastructure projects was also notable.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Byzantine government's significant spending was primarily directed towards military actions. Evidence of this is found in the historical trend where Byzantine rulers, such as during the Macedonian dynasty, used fiscal policy to maintain a strong military by redistributing land to ensure the service of peasant soldiers. This was integral to the empire's longevity and addressed internal challenges by curbing the power of local elites. Significant resources were also devoted to both religious ceremonies and infrastructure, notably under Emperor Justinian I, who commissioned the construction of the Hagia Sophia and other religious projects. However, military spending was crucial considering the constant external threats and strategic diplomacy employed by the empire throughout its history.