OUR KING REIGNS

“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God” Romans 13:1 ESV

 During this time of Covid and lockdowns, we have listened to health care authorities, and those in political power tell us what we can and cannot do; who we can and cannot see; where we can and cannot travel to; and how many people we can mingle with under one roof. I have listened to different opinions and thoughts and have seen many people stay calm, while so many more have become hostile, sad and very depressed. This is a time we have never seen before and can feel the “crunch” as those we don’t know tell us what to do. I know I am not alone, but I have confidence in the future because I know our King reigns.

I have rolled my eyes as I listen to them and say, “OH Lord, why are they in authority over our lives and countries?” “Are they just doing it to make themselves look good?” “Are they trying to really take over our lives?” But then I remember, “LET EVERY PERSON BE SUBJECT TO THE GOVERNING AUTHORITIES.” I smile and say, “OK Lord…I leave it in Your hands.”

As I continue to read Romans 13:1, I find comfort in knowing God is still in control; He has a plan and that plan even includes those that we may snarl against or do not trust in our lives. I may begin to doubt or worry as I listen to those on the news telling us to close things down, open up the economy, close it down again and then open it up again at minimal levels. I think of how much I miss the freedom to come and go as I please, see whom I wish to see and gather with my brothers and sisters in Christ worshipping Sunday in a full house with no restrictions. And, like many, I have family across the country I miss so much. I then realize I need to search deeper within myself and ask,” In whose hands am I trusting my life and the life of my family and friends? Whom am I really giving authority to in this world?” Then I read on and remember my confident hope…” FOR THERE IS NO AUTHORITY EXCEPT FROM GOD.” I smile again and say, “I know God, You still reign.”

I realize that governments exist because God created and supports the government. Government exists to keep things in line, to set boundaries, so people within our cities and/or countries do not get out of hand. The government was made to maintain justice. I think back to the book of Judges regarding how unruly the Israelites were. They had no one in authority over them until God took over and placed some of the most unlikely in charge. The one I smile most about is Gideon…one who lived in fear and questioned God. So, I remember, “THOSE WHO EXIST HAVE BEEN INSTITUTED BY GOD.” What a relief as I worship God, thanking Him for loving us so much that He continues from generation to generation to show us how He can use the least likely to unfold His perfect plan.

There is a great message in all of this. Although we may not like or find comfort in the human rulers of this world, we need to have confidence in knowing and trusting our God who loves us. God does not hover over us, pointing a finger and being demanding. He wants us to surrender to Him, so He can protect us. We cannot see all His purposes for our lives, but we need faith to know His ways are greater and wiser, and His vision is unlimited. We can have freedom. We can have His peace and live every day with joy in our hearts, knowing He is taking care of our needs.

No matter who is sitting on the “throne” here on earth, we can rest in knowing the King of kings, the Lord of lords, the Ruler of all governments, the Most Sovereign, continues to reign supreme on His throne. He is our ABBA, our true and faithful Father, and whether we surrender to Him or not, it’s His Word that will be final. Like you and I, someday, those in authority on earth will also have to stand before our King and give an account for their lives. I pray for those in earthly authority to ask for the wisdom of God, to help them lead as God would intend us to be led. I find comfort always remembering that worship never closes; it’s in our hearts, and we carry it wherever we go. Human rulers may close down many things, but they cannot close our hearts in prayer and worship. Another amazing detail that our mysterious Sovereign God, the Ruler and King of our hearts, who has authority over all, has placed in His perfect plan.

 PRAYER:

Sovereign God, thank You for being in control of all things here on earth and in our lives. We know God that even when the world seems so crazy, and many are struggling, we can have confidence that You have a perfect plan that will be for our good and for Your glory. Help us to be obedient to you, serve You, and ask for Your wisdom as we obey those in authority. We pray for the decision-makers to look to You God for Your wisdom and knowledge to lead. ABBA Father, we put our hope and trust in You as we journey here on earth. Remind us that You did not give us a spirit of fear and to use our spiritual gifts wisely. We love You, we worship You and praise our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, as we pray in His precious name……Amen.