I
lost our temporary license plate a couple Saturdays ago. It was wedged inside
the back hatch, but it flew out when I drove home with the back open (after buying
a bigger bike for James at a garage sale). James told me something flew out,
but I didn’t realize what it was until we got home and took the bike out. After
going back and looking for it a couple times, we couldn’t find it. So, we drove
the other car the rest of that day. There wasn’t a way to get a new tag until
Monday. However, Joe and I needed to go separate places Sunday afternoon. We
thought about driving our car and hoping the police didn’t see. However, I
decided to call the police Sunday morning (the non-emergency line 😊) to see what our
options were legally. I found out that we could get a ticket for failure to
display, but we could legally drive our car since it was registered and had
insurance!
I
know this was a seemingly little thing, but I think there are lots of areas
where we tend to plead ignorance or make excuses for breaking a law. Paul points out how God established the
authorities and we’re not to rebel against them. When we disobey or make up our
own rules, we are really rebelling against God.
Romans 13:1-4a 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. 2 Consequently,
whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has
instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
3 For rulers hold no
terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be
free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be
commended. 4 For
the one in authority is God’s servant for your good.
As believers, we are to submit to governing authorities for God’s
glory and our good.
Where have you and I rebelled against a governing authority or
wanted to rebel? Who would we really be rebelling against?
When have you and I submitted to a governing authority when it
wasn’t convenient or when we disagreed, but saw good come from it or a blessing
of some sort?
God
is Sovereign. He has all power, rule and authority over every person and all of
creation. He is the One who establishes governing authorities for His perfect
purposes. There is nothing outside His control, including all rulers. Let’s demonstrate
a righteous and godly response to those whom God has placed in authority over
you and me.
Alice
No comments:
Post a Comment