Scriptures
Romans 13:1 NIV
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.
Hebrews 13:17 NIV
Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.
Devotion
Submitting ourselves to earthly authorities can be challenging when there is a lack of trust. However, all authority comes from God Himself! That should bring great comfort to us. Even when we’re struggling to trust the decisions of an imperfect man or woman in charge, we can submit to them because we trust our perfect God!
There are so many great examples of this in the Bible. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego submitted to being thrown into a fiery furnace for refusing to dishonour God by bowing down to an idol. Joseph submitted to being put in prison by Potiphar, even though it was a false accusation. David refused to kill King Saul, even though Saul was trying to kill him. All these men were wrongfully treated by their authorities, but they continued to submit and instead decided to place their trust in God. As we know, their obedience made room for God to move on their behalf—and God dealt with those leaders Himself!
On a personal level, David’s story in particular really inspired me in this area. I grew up in a country where government corruption is a known secret. The concept of trusting our government was not only foreign, but almost ridiculous! But even in the face of trials and untrustworthy authorities, David placed his trust in God. He did not act foolishly or allow himself to be taken advantage of, but he refused to dishonour his king.
Our authorities may not always act in our best interests. They may not be trustworthy themselves—but we can trust God, our ULTIMATE authority.
As believers in Christ, let us allow ourselves to come under divine authority not from a place of blind commitment, but from a deep trust grounded in this revelation: no matter who is positioned in authority over us, God Himself keeps them accountable.
He is in control. He is the One we trust. He is the ultimate authority!
So, are there areas in your life where you resist authority out of fear or frustration? How might trusting God’s sovereignty help you respond with faith instead of fear?
Prayer
Lord, help me to trust You more deeply, even when I don’t understand those in authority over me. Remind me that You are in control, and Your ways are higher than mine.
Amen.
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