Lord, Forgive me for areas of my life where I tend to rebel against authority. help me demonstrate my faith in You through submission.

by Neil Anderson

 

A REBELLIOUS GENERATION

 

1 Samuel 15:23 

Rebellion is as the sin of divination, and insubordination is as iniquity and idolatry

 

We live in a rebellious generation. Many feel it is their right to sit in judgment of those in authority over them. Christians are no exception. We critique the choir and criticize the sermon. We would be far better off if we entered into the worship experience and let the Word of God sit in judgment of us.

 

Rebelling against God leads to nothing but trouble. As our commanding general, the Lord says, "Get into ranks and follow Me. I will not lead you into temptation, and I will deliver you from evil." But we sometimes say, "No, I don't want to follow today." So we fall out of ranks, do our own thing, and get shot. Then we blame God for not protecting us.

 

We are also tempted to rebel against human authority. We have two biblical responsibilities in regard to God-ordained authority figures: pray for them and submit to them. The only time God permits us to disobey earthly leaders is when they require us to do something morally wrong before God or if they attempt to operate outside the realm of their authority. Study the following passages of Scripture to further understand our response to authority: civil government (Romans 13:1-5; 1 Timothy 2:1-4; 1 Peter 2:13-16); parents (Ephesians 6:1-3); husband (1 Peter 3:1, 2); employer (1 Peter 2:18-21); church leaders (Hebrews 13:17).

 

Being submissive to God-ordained authority demonstrates faith. As you submit to God's line of authority, you are choosing to believe that God will protect you and bless you, and that all will go well with you. Ask God to forgiven you for those times you have not been submissive, and declare your trust in God to work through His established lines of authority.