SCRIPTURE
Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. 1 Peter 2:13-14 (ESV)
OBSERVATION
Up to this point in his letter, Peter has established who God is as the ultimate judge, foundation through Jesus and eternal protector. God has chosen and directed HIs people, and Peter prepares them to live honorably, as foreigners who suffer according to God’s will and character. Life is short on earth but forever in Christ.
Good conduct and good deeds among the ungodly will glorify God in the end (v.11-12). Doing good silences the voice and life of the foolish, who live according to their flesh and world, while living free means living as servants of God (v.15-16). In v.17 we are commanded to “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God.”
APPLICATION
So Lord, how do I submit to earthly authority, especially when I don’t agree or am being treated unfairly?
For me, meditating on chapters 1-2 in view of who God is, my new identity in and through Jesus is significant and key for me to be able to obey His Word. I don’t believe I am called to submit to human, worldly institutions to the point of violating my conscience, committing sin or disobeying God.
- What God is speaking loudly to my heart is to cultivate a HEART OF HONOR and RESPECT FOR ALL AUTHORITY.
- He is asking me to submit my heart, thoughts, convictions, persuasions to Him first and always. And to be prayerful how to live to represent God, in challenging or hostile situations.
- I definitely want and need to develop more of a fear of God, than a fear of man. I really long to have a more sensitive heart and conscience to hear the Holy Spirit, to please and honor God.
PRAYER
Dear Lord! I feel like – even know that my heart has some calloused areas. I’ve been desensitized by my worldly, fleshly desires and thoughts. Please forgive me and cleanse me and fill me with a renewed, sensitive heart. Thank You for Your Spirit’s love, cleansing, correction and conviction at work in my heart and life.
Help me to hear Your voice, as I seek Your heart and will… and to be more fully submitted to You. I want to think, speak and act more respectfully to earthly authorities, to represent Your heart and character! I love You Godhead!
