Daily Devotion (February-22-2025) CIVIL AUTHORITIES AND GOD.
Scripture Reference: - "For civil authorities are not a terror to [people of] good conduct, but to [those of] bad behavior. Would you have no dread of him who is in authority? Then do what is right and you will receive his approval and commendation." Romans 13:3.
We are taught by God's Word to obey civil authorities and the Bible gave us a reason for that. We are not slaves to the authorities but God placed them there for a purpose.
"Therefore he who resists and sets himself up against the authorities resists what God has appointed and arranged [in divine order]. And those who resist will bring down judgment upon themselves [receiving the penalty due them]. (Romans 13:2)
So, is God who established the prime minister, the King, the president, the mayor etc., we are to obey them, but only in the context of God's Word. We are not to leave everything in their authority; we are to examine them whether they are doing what is right or wrong, and whether the are overstepping their boundaries. God established them but not to control and dictate things of the Spirit.
"For the policeman does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. (Romans 13:3) The law enforcers are people God established here on earth to put fear in those who are doing wrong and to bring them on the right path. Though, God ordained them to function, there are boundaries to their authorities. They are to either punish evildoers, and to praise them that do well.
Our primary assignment when it comes to the Word of God is to pray for them mainly and to help them spiritually to maintain peace and order and not to encourage panic and fear. The words of Christian must carry grace and peace. When the righteous speak peace must prevail.
"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."(1 Timothy 2:1-2) This is the will of God for the church and not to carnally criticize the authorities. Wisdom is justified by her children.
PRAYER! - Dear Father, I pray for those in authorities, that they will always come out good policies and to make the right decisions; they will walk in the righteousness of God and through them the will of God is done, as we preach and pray for them. Amen.
