May 31, 2026
In America, we have the privilege of questioning authority and even rejecting it. Children rebel against parental restraints, teens argue against most rules, and adults study government and tax regulations for loopholes. Humans do not like being told what to do.
Thankfully, when we surrender to God, when we lay down our egos and selfish desires, we can at last surrender to God’s grace-filled authority. At last wisdom can approach and teach. God is our redeemer. He is our shield. Our rock. He is fair and He wants to bless us. When He makes a covenant, nothing will keep Him from fulfilling His word.
Rebellion is a sign we are not cooperating. Even when things are good, when the blessings flow, mankind will sabotage happiness to prove a point, almost always a result of ego and control.
Surrender is the healthier option. Never question God’s goodness, grabbing the reins of our own lives, and destroying the good God intended to do for us. Hardships and challenges have the power to strengthen us. It’s like people in church. If we never go out into the world, if we stay safe and secure with church friends, we will face few tests to build character, to learn to witness and lead, and to please God with our testimony.
Lord Jesus, I pray today for a submissive heart. You tell us to give unto Caesar those things that belong to Caesar. Help me submit to authority with a cheerful attitude. I pray You will keep those in authority fair and righteous in their decisions. Lord, may I always demonstrate a servant’s heart, a righteous spirit and a willingness to submit to authority.
Submission to Governing Authorities
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. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. ... Romans 13:1-7