Many of us cringe when we hear the word "submit" regarding our government. After all, our government seems more concerned with power and wealth than with helping the people it serves. Regardless, the Bible clearly states that we should submit to the laws and those who write them. This may seem difficult, but remember the context of Peter's letter. He is writing to people who are being jailed and even burned alive under the emperor Nero. Yet, amid all that, God tells them to submit.

How can we submit when we are faced with a godless government? Simply put, "Because God put them there." The Lord establishes all the governments in the world, past, present, and future. Some are led by believers, but most are not. Within the picture of eternity, we are not simply submitting to a person or position, but rather, we are submitting to God Himself. Unless a government demands we sin, we are called to obey and even honor those who are over us. In doing so, we will be at peace and have a greater impact on the world around us.

Life Lesson: God has called us to live peaceable lives under all governing authorities, only resisting when we are commanded to sin.

Dear God,
Thank You for the authorities You have put in place. While I may disagree with them occasionally, I know that You are in control and using the powers of this world for Your purposes. Help me honor and obey those above me so that the world will notice and turn to You.
In Jesus' name, Amen.

Living to tell what He died to say,
Pastor David McGee

Senior Pastor
The Bridge
aboutthebridge.com
twitter.com/ccot