Respecting Authority

December 28th, 2016

Romans 13:1-3; Titus 3:1

Respecting authority seems like a lost art in our age. Our society at large often disrespects parents, law enforcement, teachers, pastors, and just about every other governing authority there is. And let’s be honest: sometimes these people mess up. Sometimes they’ve done nothing to earn our respect. But Paul made it clear that if for no other reason, we should respect those in authority for their positions, which God has given them.

You may think the authorities in your life don’t deserve respect. But do you realize that when Paul wrote these passages, he was writing about some of the very people who had power to release him from his stints in prison—but they didn’t?

Most of the authority figures in your life probably deserve your respect. They do their best to protect you, and they want to see you succeed. But even if they sometimes miss the mark, remember that how you choose to respect or disrespect them is a reflection of your own character.

Pray: Lord, help me consistently show respect to teachers, church leadership, my parents, and law enforcement. I know that You are the ultimate authority, and that if I cannot respect those in authority over me, I will have a hard time submitting to You as well. Thank You for putting people in my life who care about me and want to see me succeed.