God
has placed clear order and authority in our lives and it is for our benefit. In
the Old Testament there were judges, prophets and kings. Through Moses father
in law, Jethro, God created a whole hierarchy of leadership to judge and govern
Israel (Ex 18:13-26).
We
are commanded to submit to governing authorities and to pray for them (1Tim
2:1) that: “we may lead a quiet and peaceable life” (1Tim 2:2; KJV). This would
involve obeying the laws of the land, including traffic speed limits; ouch!
Within the church we are also to submit to and obey those leaders who walk in
the love and wisdom of God. (Heb 13:17). In fact, we are to honor leaders and
make their work easy, as they represent God (1Tim 5:17; Heb 13:17). Our leaders
watch over us and they will answer to God for the job they do (Heb 13:17).
In
the marriage relationship, although there is to be mutual submission (Eph
5:21), the godly husband is to be the head as Christ is head of the church (Eph
5:22-33). Children are to obey their parents: “Children obey your
parents---that it may be well with thee---” (Eph 6:1-3).
Order,
discipline and submission were not put in place by God to limit us but to
ensure our freedom, protection, prosperity and peace. When we do things God’s
way, we can enjoy the abundant life Jesus came to give us (John 10:10). Try it,
I guarantee that it works.
Pass
this on. All rights reserved.