June 19
Submit to
Governing Authorities
Romans 13:1-2
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. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
Daily Steps
Finding peace in a world governed by human systems requires understanding the divine origin of all power. This verse provides the new believer with the core instruction for a peaceful relationship with the state: submit to the governing authorities.
The peace in this instruction is found in divine recognition:
The Divine Origin of Authority: The reason for submission is theological, not political: "there is no authority except that which God has established." Every government, leader, and system of law exists because God has permitted and instituted it. This understanding allows you to see even flawed human systems as operating under God's ultimate sovereignty.
The Command of Submission: The instruction is clear: "Let everyone be subject." This means obedience to laws, payment of taxes, and respect for those in office. Rebelling against human authority is ultimately seen as "rebelling against what God has instituted," a choice that brings unnecessary trouble and destroys peace.
The Result is Order: This principle provides social stability, which is essential for personal peace (Day 133). While Christians must obey God above all else (Acts 5:29), the default position for securing an orderly life is responsible submission to earthly government.
Your peace in the world is secured by responsible submission. By recognizing that your governing authorities are established by God, you choose an orderly life free from the turmoil of unnecessary conflict.
Reflective Question
Is there a specific law or governmental requirement (e.g., taxes, traffic law) that you currently chafe against or feel tempted to ignore? How can you purposefully submit to that rule this week, recognizing that by doing so, you are honoring the authority that God has established?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my difficulty in respecting authorities and systems that seem flawed. I acknowledge that there is no authority except that which You have established.
I pray for the spiritual discipline to submit to the governing authorities today, choosing an orderly life that honors Your sovereignty. Secure my peace in the knowledge that You are ultimately in control. Amen.
