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.