Reflections

 1Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.

 2Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.

 3For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; Romans 13:1-3

Let’s be honest this is a hard scripture to follow especially when you don’t agree with your boss, leader or government officials.  However, we are to submit to all authority because God is the one who establishes authority.  So what do we do when we disagree then we pray.  Too often we spend so much time complaining about those in authority instead of praying for them.

This can be especially difficult when you are dealing with someone who does not treat you well or seems to be incompetent.  Also, remember that some people are in authority because of the will of the people.  We can take comfort in knowing that God is ultimately in control and has the greatest authority.  So even when our leaders fail us we can know that God will never fail us.  Also, those in authority must answer to God, so we can take our issues with them to God.

When we do well and submit to the authority that God has placed over us we will find favor and receive praise with that authority.  Think of godly men like Joseph who found favor with Pharaoh, or Daniel who found favor with King Nebuchadnezzar who was the most evil king.  When we submit to our leaders we are submitting to God who placed those leaders over us.