Submit and Challenge
May 12 – Submit Yourself
3:133 – Submit Yourself

#faithbites #faithjourney Submit

Interesting devotion tonight during our church meeting. How do we balance living under the authority of our leaders, our own opinions, and the decisions of God?

When are we speaking out of turn rather than respectful challenging? I am a very vocal person and speak my mind. I try to listen and be respectful at all times. Sometimes it is hard and very difficult to stay respectful. But what can we do to stay respectful? How to we challenge and disagree without turning our backs on God’s plan? How do we know it’s God’s plan?

Scripture

1 Peter 2:13-14: 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.

Reflection

We need to be sure how we use that. It’s not ok to say no at the Federal level but it’s ok at the State Level and viced versa. We may disagree with authority but we can respect it. We can’t pick and chose what authority we agree with and what we don’t if we follow Scripture. We don’t have agree and like, but submit and then try for change. Remember that how you behave is a reflection on your faith. Be kind, respectful, and submit even when you disagree.

When you don’t agree, act for change. When you come to an impasse, you still have a choice. Respect the authority or chose to live under a different authority. How do you stay respectful?

Challenge

How do we respect authority but challenge successfully and respectfully? Share one way that you have challenged those in authority you disagree with in a respectful manner?

Prayer

Lord, help us listen to our leaders. Let us keep our own opinions to facts and stay away from gossip. Help us to support our leaders even if we disagree. Give us your strength to challenge when appropriate and in an appropriate way. Let us remember that the people we agree with won’t always be in power and we would want people to support leadership no matter who is there. Let us follow you and your example in challenging the status quo during your life while still respecting them. In your name, Amen.

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