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My Will vs. Their Will

Let’s be honest...this topic can touch some nerves.

To be a Christian means knowing that your true citizenship is not on earth but in Heaven (Philippians 3:20). However, we also live in a physical world, and Scripture instructs us to honor and be subject to our governing authorities.

So, how do we live this out?

We can learn from Paul’s life.

Paul was the guy who wrote that we are to be subject to our governing authorities. That means we need to pay taxes and give respect and honor (Romans 13:1-7).

If you’re like me, you struggle with some of that. Questions about wasted tax dollars and government corruption flood my thoughts.

But we need to remember that when Paul wrote this, he was living under Roman rule, one of the most corrupt and godless governments ever, and writing to the church in Rome.

So, if Paul can live that out in his time, maybe I can live it in mine.

But is that all there is to it? Are we supposed to do whatever the government demands of us without question?

Again, let’s look at Paul.

The Book of Acts tells of two interesting events (Acts 16:16-40 and Acts 22:1-30), in which the battle of governance is at the heart of the issue. In chapter 16, Paul is arrested, beaten, and imprisoned by the authorities, while in chapter 22, he is about to be whipped.

In both instances, Paul challenges the authorities and claims the right his earthly citizenship provides him: a trial.

This is significant. Even though his true citizenship is in Heaven, Paul knows he has rights as a citizen of Rome and boldly claims them.

It reminds me of Daniel 3:1-30, where three friends were ordered by the authorities to bow and worship an idol, but when the angry king threatened their lives, they simply responded:

“King Nebuchadnezzar (honor), we do not need to defend ourselves before you (acknowledging authority) in this matter (religious belief).” (Daniel 16:3 NIV, italics added).

The bottom line: As Christians, we are called to honor and submit to our government, but not at the expense of our legally-given rights and, most importantly, not at the expense of our faith.

So, when it comes to your attitude about your governing authorities, are you a man who can hold on to your rights and religious convictions, and honor your rulers?

There’s only one way to find out.

Submit.

Prayer: Jesus, thank You that no government authority exists without Your permission. Help me be Your example as I pray for and honor those who govern over me. Amen.

Reflection: What are your attitudes towards your governing authorities? Have you submitted them to God and asked Him for more of His heart for them?