MAY 9

Romans 13:1-7
Memorise Romans 13:1
“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers”

How can a child of God shine for Jesus in school? Paul tells us in this verse that we must first learn to submit to the authorities. In the broader context, the authorities can be the government ruling over us. It can also include the school authority which all students must submit to. This would mean that all school rules must be adhered to. We might be unhappy with some of the school rules e.g. regarding our haircut or the length or size of our uniforms. It all seems so unfair and restrictive. But Paul teaches us that all authority is established by God.

When we submit ourselves to an authority, we are trusting God, for He alone sovereignly rules over all affairs in this world and the universe. We trust in His wisdom to direct our lives and to work out His purposes in His time. The right attitude for a believer is to pray and submit to the authority, no matter how unfair and unjust it seems. We are then setting an example of peaceful and godly living that influences the world. Organising rebellious petitions, protests, or marches stirs up trouble for the authorities.

God takes a serious view of those who organise rebellion against governing authorities as illustrated by Korah’s refusal to submit to Moses’ authority (Numbers 16:3). In the end, he and all his family perished as the earth opened up and swallowed them and their houses (Numbers 16:32). It was only because of Aaron’s intervention to make atonement for the people that the entire congregation of Israel was not destroyed (Numbers 16:46-48).

Dear teen, there are times that we may have to deal with difficult and unreasonable teachers, seniors and persons in authority. How will you respond? Will you rebel and fight back? Will you speak ill of them and complain bitterly about it? Will you get angry and try to get even? Do you think these are actions befitting of a believer? We must humbly and prayerfully submit to those in authority, for we believe that God has put that person in your life for a purpose and that God’s will is done in you through that person – even if you don’t see it and don’t understand it. In the end, God will give you the victory.

Thought: God says, “By me kings reign, and princes decree justice” (Proverbs 8:15).
Prayer: Lord, grant me spiritual discernment to understand the importance of submitting to authorities, for they are established by You.