God Wants Us to Respect and Honor Those in Authority
Thursday’s Verse:
From Romans 13:2 ESV
“Therefore, whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.”
In the world around us, it seems as if respect for law enforcement is at a low point. In Minnesota yesterday and across the country, calls for reform and greater accountability meet deep divisions over past injustices and current realities. Christians, though, are reminded in God’s Word in Romans 13 that civil authorities, including law enforcement officials, are instituted by God as His servants for our good, to preserve society, to punish evil, and to uphold order.
There are appropriate places to resist authorities and to push for reform and justice. The Lutheran tradition has always taught this, and Lutheran theology is clear that authority is not limitless and that we must obey God first (Acts 5:29). But even when we must disagree and must rightly call for reform and the punishment of evil, Christians are also called to respect and honor the office of those God has placed in authority over us. We are to show honor and respect to the office because it is God’s means of preserving some order in a world marred by sin. When we slander, verbally or through our actions or attitudes, the men and women who are in authority to protect and serve in our society, we act against the common good and the peace that God intends for His creation.
We pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1–2), we obey just laws, and we show grace to everyone. Let us not forget that all human beings are made in God’s image, as officers and as citizens.
✝️ A Prayer for Today:
Heavenly Father, You set all authority and power in place for the good of Your created order. We pray for wisdom and integrity for all those who work in law enforcement, especially those in Minnesota. Soften hearts, both on the street and in this state, that are hardened against each other and help us to honor those who are placed to protect and serve us, even as we call for reform and peace. Forgive us for the times that we fail to live up to Your standards and teach us to live as good and faithful citizens of both heaven and earth. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Apostles’ Creed:
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth.
And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer:
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Luther’s Morning Prayer:
I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.
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