Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
(1 Peter 2:13-15, 17-19, 21 NIV)
I may generally vote Republican and yet I respect and submit to President Barack Obama. I don't believe he is a Jesus follower. I don't like a lot of his policies. But I respect him as our president and his leadership. I submit to his authority. If there is conflict in he law of the US and Gods law then I will follow God. But in most things I recognize the US government and representatives for the rule of law over me. For God has given them authority. And for the most part they maintain the rule of law.
God you alone do I fear. Not life or death or government or war or disease or sin do I fear. And yet my heart and strength is weak. God strengthen me in your Love that is in Christ Jesus.
God help us to do great good in the midst of the world. Let us not argue or complain but do such good that we would be evidence of who you are and your reality God to those who resist you and do not know you.
Amen
No comments:
Post a Comment