“They came again to Jerusalem. And as He was walking in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders came to Him, and began saying to Him, “By what authority are You doing these things, or who gave You this authority to do these things?” (Mark 11:27-28)
All authority comes from God. We get caught up in territories, thinking that we understand positions of authority, but our Lord can do as He chooses. If you have authority, exercise it knowing that it is the Lord whom you serve. Do not lord it over others as many do in this world. Respect those in authority. Jesus has told us that all authority and power belong to Him.
Lord, You grant authority to whom You grant it. You have told us that we will know others by their fruit. Help me to respect the appointments You make. Guide me to be humble with the authority You grant me. Guide me to live knowing that You have placed me where I am. Through all that I do, guide me to learn how to be faithful with those things You give me to do.
Lord Jesus, You were constantly confronted by those who questioned Your authority. So also, I am daily questioned by those who ask what or why I am doing what I do. Teach me to live according to Your word of promise, respecting others, even when I have questions. Guide me to be faithful, trusting that You will show me what needs to be done. Be the One who leads my actions, Lord. Amen.
Lord, You grant authority to whom You grant it. You have told us that we will know others by their fruit. Help me to respect the appointments You make.
I believe God grants all authority, but I am struggling with much of the authority that has been granted throughout our country and the world. Authority is literally killing millions of Christians, destroying cities with policies that create poverty and dependence, punish people for doing what is right and good and glorify pure evil actions such as abortion, transgender mutilation, sinful lifestyles, etc.
How can I understand this. Does the devil also grant authority?
I ran your comment by Dr. Greene and he asked that I post the following in response:
I think of a dear friend much, much older than I whose bible study group always began with Romans 13:1. He was a devout follower of Jesus under the rule of Adolph Hitler.
This passage is easy to pass by until you understand and experience the level of wickedness in this world. Pray all the more.
By the way, the devil has no authority. That is his lie. All authority and power belongs to our Lord.
Go to the Lord in prayer . . .