January 27
Submitting to authorities
Romans 13:1,3,5

 

1: Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers.  For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
3: 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:
5: Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

The whole concept of authority is from God.  Local and governmental authorities were established by God.  We know that not everyone in these positions are godly but the position itself was established by God.  For this reason you need to submit to authorities. (Unless they require you to do something that blatantly violates the Word and causes you to disobey God, see Acts 5:29).

God says to submit to authorities not only to avoid His wrath (meaning the punishment given to you through the authorities for not obeying the laws), but also for conscience sake.  The Amplified Bible adds, ‘as a matter of principle’.  You obey authorities simply because God says to.  If you resist the authorities then you are resisting God because He has established authorities.  This is why it is so important to pray for those in authority.

 

Confession:

I will obey the authorities.  I will not rebel but I submit to all authority God has set over me.  First and foremost and above all to God Himself and then to others.  And rather than criticize my leaders, I will pray for them instead.

Obedience is a tree of life!