“Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.” – Romans 13:1
Paul’s teaching on government in Romans 13 is simple to understand, yet difficult for many believers to embrace. Scripture tells us that governing authorities exist because God has established them, “for rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil” (Romans 13:3, NKJV). Our responsibility is clear: we are to submit to authority and even pay taxes as an act of obedience to God. But this becomes challenging when the leaders we are called to submit to make decisions that conflict with biblical convictions. When laws are passed that grieve our hearts, or when freedoms feel threatened, frustration can quietly grow into a rebellious spirit. We may never march in protest, but inwardly our hearts resist the very institution God designed for order and protection.
Paul’s instruction does not ignore the tension we feel. Instead, it calls us to trust God’s sovereignty even when earthly authority disappoints us. Think of a family: parents set rules not to restrict their children, but to protect and guide them. Children may not always agree, especially as they grow older, but the structure is meant for their good. In the same way, God uses government—imperfect as it is—to maintain order in a fallen world. Throughout Scripture, God worked through righteous rulers like David and through unrighteous ones like Nebuchadnezzar. Yet in every case, His purposes prevailed. Our submission is ultimately an act of faith—not in the government itself, but in the God who stands above it.
This doesn’t mean we endorse ungodly practices or silence our convictions. It means we honor God by respecting the authority He has allowed, praying for our leaders, and trusting that He remains in control. Jesus Himself modeled this when He said, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (Matthew 22:21). Even under corrupt Roman rule, He demonstrated submission without compromise. As believers, we are called to do the same—living with humility, peace, and confidence in God’s ultimate rule.
Pray for your leaders, even those you disagree with. Guard your heart from bitterness or rebellion. Choose to trust God’s sovereignty when government decisions trouble you. Live honorably, speak truth with grace, and remember that your ultimate allegiance is to the King of kings, who rules over every earthly authority.
“Paul’s teaching does not depend on the virtue of rulers but on the sovereignty of God who appoints them.”—F.F. Bruce
surrendered devotions 