Daily Devotions - Submission to Governing Authorities

Romans 13:1-7 (NIV)
Submission to Governing Authorities
13 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. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience. 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

Who are the authorities in your life? How do you relate to them?

God should be our ultimate authority and His authority will never steer me wrong. State and local authorities are can be harder to follow because we know that often they have ulterior motives designed to benefit themselves rather than those they serve.

Lord help me trust those in authority over me. In these chaotic times, I need to trust that you do know and see all the schemes that some of those in authority are involved and you will stand in judgment of them. I pray for our leaders to understand that all authority comes from you and that you are working in their lives even if the cannot see or acknowledge it. Father help me to be gracious as I serve in my community so that you would be honored. I must admit I struggle to give the honor and respect that many people in power are due because I struggle with their positions on issues that are different than mine. You make it so clear in your word and I need to submit my attitude to you. I need to seek your Holy Spirit to guide me as I seek to serve you and allow you to work out your purposes and plan for your world. Lord, I anxiously await the day when all authority will bend its knee to you. Amen

Today's prayer submitted by Jo Schneider