Christians should have an attitude of submission towards God. Our earthly authority provides a great training ground to learn how to submit. When we submit to authority, we humbly obey God as we should. Whether it is the federal government or our boss or a husband, we respect God's plan for order when we yield to their authority.
But what about when the authority figure or law goes against God's Word? What then? God is the highest authority in the Christian's life. Christians should always obey God even when authorities in your life command you to go against what God or His Word is telling you to do.
In the book of Daniel, we read about Daniel's character. He was faithful to God and submitted to authority. He worked hard and behaved righteously. His qualities earned him a promotion. The jealous officials inspired a decree which forbid Daniel to pray to God. Yet Daniel ignored the decree that lead him away from God and kept on praying! He feared God more than man so God rescued him from the mouth of lions.
Christians must always fear God more than man. Christians should never depend on the law to tell us what is right or wrong, but we should rely on God's Word. Believers should tell corrupt bosses they will not break the law to help their bottom line. Christian women should not quietly submit to abusive husbands but seek God's will in their lives. Those are exceptions in which acting righteously and justly according to God's Word is more important than submitting to authority.
In most circumstances, submission to authority is a useful tool to help us draw near to the Lord. If we love the Lord, we will submit to authority. In doing so, we are a good example and witness to others. Throughout our lives, we must remember our King in heaven is our ultimate authority. Our Father who loves us deserves our undivided loyalty.
Lord, Help us to draw near to You by submitting to authority. Give us the courage to stand firm on the Word when authority leads us astray. Thank You, Lord, that You hear our prayers. In Christ's Name, Amen.
But what about when the authority figure or law goes against God's Word? What then? God is the highest authority in the Christian's life. Christians should always obey God even when authorities in your life command you to go against what God or His Word is telling you to do.
In the book of Daniel, we read about Daniel's character. He was faithful to God and submitted to authority. He worked hard and behaved righteously. His qualities earned him a promotion. The jealous officials inspired a decree which forbid Daniel to pray to God. Yet Daniel ignored the decree that lead him away from God and kept on praying! He feared God more than man so God rescued him from the mouth of lions.
Christians must always fear God more than man. Christians should never depend on the law to tell us what is right or wrong, but we should rely on God's Word. Believers should tell corrupt bosses they will not break the law to help their bottom line. Christian women should not quietly submit to abusive husbands but seek God's will in their lives. Those are exceptions in which acting righteously and justly according to God's Word is more important than submitting to authority.
In most circumstances, submission to authority is a useful tool to help us draw near to the Lord. If we love the Lord, we will submit to authority. In doing so, we are a good example and witness to others. Throughout our lives, we must remember our King in heaven is our ultimate authority. Our Father who loves us deserves our undivided loyalty.
Lord, Help us to draw near to You by submitting to authority. Give us the courage to stand firm on the Word when authority leads us astray. Thank You, Lord, that You hear our prayers. In Christ's Name, Amen.
