Submitting To Authorities And Trusting God
BRD REFLECTIONS
Romans 13:1-7 and Psalm 144 (NIV)
(Liana Seah, Chairperson, BeTween Ministry)
READ:
Romans 13:1-7 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Romans 13:1-2 – 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. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
Romans 13:7 – Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honour, then honour.
This passage in Romans talks about submission to governing authorities. My first response was: ‘But what if the government is corrupt?’. How do I reconcile this with the fact that Paul was imprisoned and Jesus was crucified under the governing authorities? As I searched, I came across this commentary which explained that they continued to do what God called them to do, but they submitted to the authorities and suffered the consequences. They obeyed God AND they submitted to the earthly authorities.
https://www.bibleref.com/Romans/13/Romans-chapter-13.html
APPLY:
Having lived in both emerging and developed nations, I learn not to take for granted the government in power. Where money and power go before the people they serve, the governing authorities can make it very difficult to submit to. When I see that they are doing their best to do good and to punish evil, it is easier to submit and obey. However, this passage applies to all situations. To be a good disciple, we need to be a good citizen regardless of our personal views and stance.
DO:
I need to submit to them and give to them what I owe them: tax, revenue, respect and honour. I think paying tax is often easier than giving respect at all times. But God wants me to submit, even when it’s hard. When something does not sit right with us, I can submit our petition and pleas to the Lord. He will make it right, and He will bring justice. I need to trust that God himself fills each position in the government for His purpose.
PRAY:
Dear our Sovereign God, You are always in control and You establish all the authorities. Bless our nation and our leaders. Grant us leaders who are after Your heart. Bless them with wisdom to govern the country to bring good works and justice. I pray that I can be a good citizen and support our leaders, especially during tough times, without grumbling or arguing. I pray for your mercy to the other nations where corruption is rampant, that Your hand be upon them. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
