“Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.”
– Titus 3:1
We gravitate towards the side that fits our worldview in any political climate. Arguments draw us in like a magnet, and debates over issues escalate quickly. Yet, it is not our worldview that should matter. Our primary concern should be a Biblical worldview. In God’s economy, this is the governance that will span eternity. Walking through the door of Biblical worldview ushers us into the foyer of heaven. Any other outlook takes off the lenses of grace and kindness toward others.
Submitting to governing authorities is not a popular subject in any society. If we are sincere, many of us desire to know when it is appropriate not to be submissive. The overarching theme of this portion of Scripture is to remain meek in our dealings with others. To remember that we were once lost and in need of salvation. Obedience matters. When we are submissive, meekness hints at empathy resulting in patience with all. Patience is a much-needed grace of the Holy Spirit in our lives today.
The Bible says, “let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God” (James 1:19-20). The Apostle Paul reminds us that “if it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord” (Romans 12:18).
Our desire as Christians should not be one of seeking to know when it is appropriate to disobey authority. Our aim should be to know God’s Word and be obedient to Him. Then the Lord can lead us. We will avoid skirmishes that do not matter and only engage in the battle that does, the battle for souls. In this, we will develop a sanctified mind and know holiness, demonstrate discernment, and understand when authority has overstepped its bounds. Only then will we be given timely utterances that will glorify Christ.
“But watch out for yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in the synagogues. You will be brought before rulers and kings for My sake, for a testimony to them. And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations. But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand, or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour; speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit.”
– Mark 13:9-11
surrendered devotions 