Respect authority (2)
2022-03-01Jeremiah 44:16 NKJV
Sadly, some of the people in authority might use their power wrongly and prove themselves unworthy of the position they’ve been given. But that doesn’t give us an excuse to be defiant towards every authority figure we face. Even though Jesus’ ministry was marked by demonstrations of supernatural power, He still taught people that submitting to the governing authorities in Rome was the right thing to do. ‘Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and give to God the things that are God’s’ (Luke 20:25 NCV).
Whether we’re overlooked and ignored, working for an incompetent boss, or feel we’ve been treated unfairly, respecting authority is still God’s will for us. And when we obey His will, He works on our behalf. If we tend to be defiant towards authority, it’s a good idea to try and work out the root cause.
Here are some possible sources: 1) Mistreatment or being hurt in the past. 2) Disrespect for someone in authority who wasn’t equipped for the task. 3) Pride because our skills haven’t been recognised and rewarded as we think they should. 4) Unfair behaviour from those in authority. 5) A tactic to test the honesty, care, or concern of the people in authority over us.
The Bible says: ‘Anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted’ (Romans 13:2 NLT). If you’re holding on to an attitude of defiance, today pray: ‘Father, I’m sorry for having a lack of respect towards the people You’ve placed in authority. Remind me that their authority is from You, and when I resist it, I’m resisting You. Help me to accept those in authority and to pray for them. Amen.’