For This ReasonSample

For this reason, I HONOR  

The word authority often brings negative feelings and emotions. Whether it’s our boss, teacher, government official, pastor or parent, is it really that important to honor them? Would the answer be different if they did things that were wrong? The same negative feelings and dissatisfaction with authority that we experience are not all that different from in Jesus’ time.

In the Gospels, the Pharisees approached Jesus in an attempt to get Him to publicly disagree with the Roman government. The Roman government at the time was taxing the Jewish people more than other Roman citizens. The Jewish people harbored resentment for the Roman government that ruled over Jerusalem. Knowing this, the Pharisees asked Jesus if they should have to pay the Romans’ taxes. Jesus responds with “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” (Mark 12:17 NIV)

Even if what is happening is not right, we have a responsibility to honor and respect those in authority. Each person in leadership has been placed there by God, but that doesn’t mean they will do everything right. As Christians we must respect the God-given authority of others and treat those authorities accordingly, no matter how they choose to act. But, honor is not the same thing as agreement. We can disagree with someone and still honor them.

QUESTIONS:

1. REFLECT: Have you ever disagreed with or been hurt by a leader or authority figure? What can you do to honor them in spite of what they have done?

2. APPLY: Have you ever prayed for an authority that you disagree with? Try praying for God’s blessing in their life, and see what God does in your heart.

3. PRAY: Father, I don’t always agree with or understand the authorities that You have placed in my life, please empower me to humbly honor those in authority over me. Amen.