When Christians hear the word submission, their minds automatically jump to the controversial subject of submission of wives to their husbands. However, all Christians are called into a lifetime of submission.
Christians are called to submit first and foremost to God as stated in James 4: 7 Submit yourselves, then, to God.... Jesus lived in perfect submission to His Father. He never argued with Him about His rights or rebelled against Him. Instead, He yielded to His Father's will because He trusted Him. He is our example.
We are called to submit to the government and other authorities. Romans 13: 1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.This means everything from following speed limits to paying taxes. It means we cannot use our own judgment or take what is entitled to us.
Common sense tells us to submit to our bosses, but Christians are called to do even more than submit but to serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people... in Eph 6:7. Putting forth our best efforts is a testimony to our boss and coworkers that God is good. If you think you are being treated unfairly, do not seek revenge with poor efforts.
Christian children must obey their parents as it says in Eph. 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. This basic relationship teaches us to know our place. If you disagree with your parents, consider negotiating for privileges by using examples of your good behavior instead of ignoring the rules.
Submission is an attitude fortified with humility and obedience. These are characteristics God wants to instill in us because we cannot live in a proper relationship with the Lord unless we are trained in submission. If we cannot submit to earthly authority, how can we submit to God?
