Submit to who?
Let me begin this message by stating: I am not advocating a particular party or candidates in the 2024 election. I’m writing about respecting our leaders, submitting to authority, and following God’s will in doing good. Does this make you ask, “Submit to who?”
Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. (Romans 13:1)
God’s Plan
Our Christian Bible is clear about submitting to those in authority over us. Authorities exist as part of God’s plan.
As children we submit to our parents, other trusted adults, and our teachers.
As young adults and throughout a lifetime of work, we respect and obey directives from our bosses and employers. Those of us who have held leadership roles appreciate when our employees have good attitudes in the workplace and complete assigned tasks with willing and cheerful demeanors.
Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you. (Hebrews 13:17)
Of course, I concede that not all leaders are good at their jobs. Many lack necessary knowledge and skills for their leadership role. They may fail to provide motivation and encouragement. Even worse, they demean or treat their employees with disrespect, developing a hostile work environment.
But . . . we are still reminded to treat our leaders and everyone with respect.
Respect Everyone
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. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. (1 Peter 2:13-15)
Obey the emperor? That directive comes as a hard challenge for those of us who participate in a democratic process of choosing our leaders. But the scripture above is about more than obeying human authority. We are told how to go about that process:
- It is God’s will that we do good.
- We must not allow our freedom of choice to excuse evil actions.
- Live as God’s slaves–obeying Him above every human authority.
- Honor our human leaders.
Submit to God First
So when we ask ourselves, “Submit to who?” the answer is God! Our actions should always be first directed by God’s will.
Jesus reminds us of the importance of submission and obedience:
“Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” (Luke 11:28)
“If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. (John 15:10-11)
What is the hardest aspect of submission to God? Or submission to leaders?
What qualities do you believe are most essential for our leaders to possess?
Prayer
Gracious Father, I pray you will send us leaders who seek your guidance and obey your commandments. May we seek your guidance during the election process and You be with those who are elected, showing them the path to follow your will.
Good post! I think the hardest part about submitting to government authorities is when they support or do something that isn’t in line with Scriptures.
I agree, Priscilla. It is very hard to support our leaders when they go against God’s Word. Makes me wonder how those in the time of Jesus were able to respect Roman rule. I think that is a reminder for us to do our best while waiting patiently for God’s intervention. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us.
Thank you, Katherine for this reminder that God wants to us submit to His authority above all else. His commands to obey those in authority over us has not changed.
Thank you for offering your support and encouragement, Krystal. Thank you especially for your prayers for our country, our leaders, and our people. Peace and blessings!
Thank.you..I.appreciate.the.post.and.agree.
Thank you, Jimmie. Our prayers make a difference!
We are to do like Peter said to the Sanhedrin. We obey God rather than men when men go against God’s precepts. We are to pray for leaders to rule in a godly manner. We are to pray those who don’t know the Lord will be saved.
I agree, Barbara. Thank you for sharing this prayer with us. Wishing you joy and blessings.
We can pray for our leaders no matter who they are. We can pray for them to know God and pursue and embrace truth, for them to have integrity.
Yes, Nancy! We are called to pray for our leaders no matter what–then trust God’s will. May God continue to bless you and your ministry.
Faith in God, along with a closer personal relationship with Him, are important qualities for our leaders. Who to better guide us than He. One thing we can hold on to following this election: God will still be in charge.
Hope you are well, Katherine.
Blessings,
Candyce
Candyce, I’m so thankful that our almighty and wise Father is the one in charge. We are blessed! Sending you good wishes for a great week, my friend.
Thank you for this post, Katherine. My heart echoes your prayer—may God send us leaders who will seek His guidance and obey His commands!
Thank you for joining in prayer for our country, our leaders, and our people. We know our prayers are heard, and we trust God’s plan. Peace and blessings, Kim.
Thank you Katherine! Such wonderful verses that remind us that God’s plans and purposes, even in the afflictions that may be traced to those in authority, are far reaching and for His kingdom. Thanks!
Thank you for your kind encouragement, Sylvia. Thanks also for your ministry of words shared through your blog. You are a role model and mentor for us through your writing. May God continue to bless your ministry.