Respecting Authority

Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. (Romans 13:5)

Christians in this country have done a poor job of living out a true respect for positions of authority. Remember that our respect for authority should never be contingent upon our personal preferences or our designated political affiliations. Personal preferences or political affiliations should not sway our respect for authority.

Whether or not we agree with our leaders, and whether or not we like them, God calls us to honor the positions they hold. When we honor the position, not necessarily the person or their decisions, we display Godly character. This shows the world what it looks like to live our faith in a way that honors God. Even in times of political tension and division, we are called to be a source of peace and a shining example of godliness.

As Christians, we are called to pray for our leaders, irrespective of our political stance. Our prayers can have a significant impact on promoting peace and righteousness in our nation.

Ultimately, our responsibility is to lead lives characterized by respect for authority because we want to please God. When we live this way, we not only fulfill God’s will but we also lead as an example to the world. We create an atmosphere of honor that changes things.

As you engage with the authority figures in your life, remember that your actions and attitudes matter. Your respect for authority, rooted in your faith in God, is a testimony to the world of what a life of faith looks like. Through prayer and honor, we create a climate of peace and righteousness, fulfilling our role as ambassadors of Christ in a world marked by hate and disrespect.

Practical Application

Take time to pray for your president today. Pray for his protection, that he is surrounded by wise counsel and his relationship with God.

1 Timothy 2:1; Ecclesiastes 8:2

The Servant of Good

For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. (Romans 13:4)

In the days of Paul, public servants were generally wealthy businessmen who were expected to use their wealth and influence for the benefit of society. They were not paid to serve; it was an honor to be asked to be in those positions. They left behind legacies of infrastructure, generosity, and improvement in the cities and areas they served. Serving the public was not about personal gain, but rather it was about leaving a positive mark on the community. However, today's political landscape seems far removed from anything near this ideal. Many times, public servants accumulate wealth during their time in office, rather than using their positions to enrich the lives of those they are called to serve. This has led to a crisis of trust in the government.

The Greek word Paul used in Romans 13 for minister, diakonos, translates to servant. This verse reminds us that individuals in public office are intended to be servants of the people, serving for the greater good. He explains further that their fundamental role is to uphold justice. We entrust public servants with the power to enforce the law and to ensure that those who do evil face the consequences.

The duty of those in positions of authority is clear: to serve the people, uphold justice, and execute the law without prejudice. When these principles are upheld, society can thrive, and we can restore government trust.

Practical Application

As Christians, we are called to pray for our leaders, but we are also called to hold them accountable, ensuring that they fulfill their role as servants of the people and ministers of God for good. Vote, speak up, and stand for Biblical principles. In doing so, we contribute to a society where justice prevails, and the principles of fairness and equity guide our actions and decisions.

2 Chronicles 19:6; Romans 12:19

Respecting the Law

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same. (Romans 13:3)

People placed in positions of authority, whether rulers, leaders, or officials, exist to maintain order and uphold the law. Their role is not to strike fear into those who do good but to be a deterrent to evil actions.

So then what if the authorities are corrupt or unjust? The law itself remains the law. Corrupt authorities should face the same consequences as anyone else who violates the law. However, simply because some people in power are unjust doesn't justify discarding the law altogether. Instead, we should hold individuals accountable for their actions while preserving the principles and regulations that maintain a just society.

Respecting the law, even when we question the behavior of those in power, is a fundamental principle of a strong and functioning society. It recognizes that the law serves as a safeguard for all citizens. When we respect the law, we are promoting a culture of order, fairness, and accountability.

No system is perfect. But we must not to lose sight of the bigger picture. We should focus on keeping the law intact and replace evil people in power with those who will do right.

As Christians, we should approach these situations with a commitment to seeing righteousness prevail in all aspects of our society. We pray for justice and hold both leaders and ourselves accountable to the standards that God calls us to uphold. In this way, we are promoting of God's kingdom values in our world.

Practical Application

Pray for your local police officers and local authorities today. Pray that those who do not have the right motives and promote evil will be plucked out of their positions of power and pray for open doors for God to put godly men and women in those seats.

Deuteronomy 25:1; Proverbs 14:35