Romans 13:1 (ESV): “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.”
Years ago there was a song with the lyrics, “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me!” People may like the idea of respect, but from God’s perspective, it is not just a nice idea—it is a command. He tells us
in His Word that we are to submit ourselves under the leadership of those in authority. Why does God care whether I listen to people in positions of authority, such as my parents, my boss, my minister, or a police officer? Because if you and I refuse to be subject to visible authorities, we will never submit to an invisible God. We also need to keep in mind that God is the one who raises up kings and who also removes them from their thrones (Psalm 75:7), which means that positions of authority and the people who fill them have been instituted by Him. We may not always like our authority figures or even fully trust them at times, but we can trust God. Our allegiance is ultimately to Him. Therefore, our thoughts, words, and behaviors should reflect a right attitude. We honor God by showing respect to those who govern. Let us cultivate a habit of praying for those in leadership over us. There is a great responsibility placed on their shoulders, for which they are ultimately accountable to God.
Honor God by treating the authority in your life with respect today!
Theresa
Years ago there was a song with the lyrics, “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me!” People may like the idea of respect, but from God’s perspective, it is not just a nice idea—it is a command. He tells us
in His Word that we are to submit ourselves under the leadership of those in authority. Why does God care whether I listen to people in positions of authority, such as my parents, my boss, my minister, or a police officer? Because if you and I refuse to be subject to visible authorities, we will never submit to an invisible God. We also need to keep in mind that God is the one who raises up kings and who also removes them from their thrones (Psalm 75:7), which means that positions of authority and the people who fill them have been instituted by Him. We may not always like our authority figures or even fully trust them at times, but we can trust God. Our allegiance is ultimately to Him. Therefore, our thoughts, words, and behaviors should reflect a right attitude. We honor God by showing respect to those who govern. Let us cultivate a habit of praying for those in leadership over us. There is a great responsibility placed on their shoulders, for which they are ultimately accountable to God.
Honor God by treating the authority in your life with respect today!
Theresa
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