As Christians, we are called to live a life of trust—trust in God’s established order. This includes the roles in government, the Church, and our homes, all of which are set in place by God. Each of these areas has its responsibilities towards God (Ephesians 6:9, 1 Peter 5:3). We must rule according to God’s law and love, and each of us will be held accountable for our actions.

Similarly, those who are subject to the governing authorities established by God are called to serve with love (Matthew 22:21). We are only encouraged to righteously rebel against this order when a higher authority overrides the authority placed over us (Acts 5:29).

In Scripture, we see this principle exemplified by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. They refused to bow down to the idol as commanded by their governing authority. Instead of attempting to overthrow the government, they accepted the consequences of their actions while remaining submissive to the punishment. Their trust in God magnified the truth of the Gospel in the nation where they were exiled and it’s outcome gave glory to God (Daniel 3, 1 Corinthians 10:31).

We trust in God’s righteous judgment, knowing that if there is wrongdoing, God will be just—either in this life or the next. This should be a sobering reflection for leaders and parents, who act as governing authorities: Am I following God’s law of love by loving God and loving others (Galatians 5:14)? Is my leadership motivated by love or by selfish gain?

As we all hold some role of authority—whether great or small—the responsibility before God remains the same. Am I honoring God in my role? If I am not honoring Him, what kind of witness am I to those entrusted to me? If I cannot submit to God’s earthly order, how can I expect to submit to God?

Lord, I pray for trust in Your order, believing that You are working in those in authority over me. I ask that You work in my life similarly, so that we may all emulate Your established order in heaven. Rule in our hearts, Lord.