March 5th | God's Established Order

As followers of Jesus, we are called to be model citizens—people who pay taxes honestly, respect laws that align with justice, show kindness to neighbors, and live orderly lives. This isn't motivated by fear of consequences alone, but by love for others and respect for God's established order.

"Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God." (Romans 13:1)

"Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." (v. 2)

The passage continues: Rulers are not a terror to those who do right, but to those who do wrong. Paul asks, "Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended." (v. 3) Governing authorities serve as God's servants for our good, punishing wrongdoing and commending good conduct.

This teaching calls us to submission—not blind or unquestioning obedience, but a willing respect for the structures God has put in place. When civil rulers overstep their God-given role or demand what contradicts God's commands, our primary allegiance remains to obey God first (as seen in examples like Acts 5:29). Yet in everyday life, the default posture for believers is one of humble submission.

Paul reinforces this in verse 5: "Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment, but also as a matter of conscience."

Our obedience flows from a deeper motivation: a clear conscience before God, recognizing His sovereignty over all human institutions.

The chapter closes with a powerful charge:

"Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh." (v. 14)

As followers of Jesus, we are called to be model citizens—people who pay taxes honestly, respect laws that align with justice, show kindness to neighbors, and live orderly lives. This isn't motivated by fear of consequences alone, but by love for others and respect for God's established order.

In a world often marked by rebellion, division, or distrust of authority, let our lives reflect something different: peaceful submission where possible, courageous obedience to God when necessary, and always a heart clothed in Christ rather than the flesh.

Live as one who honors God's design—both on the court house square, the Capitol steps, with your wages, and in the quiet choices of your heart.