Did you know that when you obey the laws of your country and state, you are also obeying God? The apostle Paul explained to the Christians in Rome that God is the one who gives government authorities their power.
During Paul’s time, the Roman government even required people to worship their emperor as a god. While Christians refused to do that, even this hostile government served God’s ultimate purposes. Believers stayed faithful to Him, even when they faced jail or execution. Eventually, God destroyed that oppressive empire, punishing it for treating His people so poorly.
God is in Control
No matter what is happening in the news, always remember who is ultimately in charge:
“the Most High rules in the kingdoms of men” — Daniel 4:25
Because God is in control, we do not need to live in fear. However, if any government ever tells us to stop worshipping or obeying God, our priority is clear: we must obey God rather than human authority (Acts 5:29). We should be deeply thankful for the freedom we have to worship God peacefully today.
Key Takeaway
Governments will rise and fall, and wars will be fought. Yet, every government exists only by God’s permission, and He will hold leaders accountable for how they treat others.
Unless a law forces you to disobey God, make it your goal to obey the law because doing so is a way of obeying God.
Private Reflection Journal
What is one thing from this study that you can apply to your life today? Jot down your thoughts below.