Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. (Rom. 13:1)

Let’s face it, some of God’s rules are easier to follow than others. When God says, “You shall not murder,” most of us rest easy, knowing we’re probably not in danger of violating that one! But submitting to some of God’s other rules can challenge us.

Consider how you feel about: “Pay to all what is owed,” or “put away all anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth,” or “let every person be subject to the governing authorities.”

Does the Bible really say, “prayers, petitions and thanksgivings [should] be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority?” Yes. The Bible says that. Advocating for a political cause does not excuse us from doing so God’s way.

In our polarized culture, honoring temporal authorities who bring order to society so that the gospel can spread isn’t always easy – or even approved by other Christians. But we need to remember our ultimate citizenship is in heaven, and our ultimate ruler is the Lord. We never abandon his standards in advocating his purposes.

Our aim is to bring glory to him in how we conduct ourselves, even in opposing wrong. We neither approve of evil, nor do what is wrong to overcome evil. God will use righteous words and conduct toward those in authority for our witness to his greater glory.

Prayer:
Lord, I know you have appointed officials for the good of society. Help me rightly to honor their authority out of submission to you, as I trust you to accomplish your purposes through your people in your timing.