Subject to Authority

This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.~Romans 13:6-7

So when I received this scripture in my inbox this morning I was not exactly shouting “Amen” and Hallelujah”.  Rather my thoughts immediately jumped to our current leaders and I thought seriously.  I read the Word through a lens of judgement by way of pride and God quickly corrected it.

Just because someone else is not following through with instructions of God does not mean that I don’t have too.  God told me to submit to those in authority over me( Romans 13:1).  They are in a position of authority because He has allowed them to be there.  My job is not based my willingness to obey based on what they do or don’t do.  The “what about them” rationale is not going to satisfy what God has instructed me to do. 

Therefore, I must give to everyone what I owe them because God demands it.  I can not usurp my thinking or opinions for His word.  I don’t get to pick and choose what commands I will follow.  I must surrender all to God.

Applying this in practical terms means that I don’t argue my my boss or supervisor.  I don’t disparage their name behind their backs.  I am not critical of ministry leaders in my church.  I don’t choose politics over the truth of God’s word.  I pray for those who govern and trust that He is working it all out for my good.

Father I thank You for your Word that governs every aspect of my life.  Forgive me for wanting to cherrypick the parts that I think are good.  Keep me humbled and surrendered to your will.  In Jesus name. Amen