Our Scripture reading today is Hebrews 13:16-17.
Verse 17, "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you."
There are a two words that stand out to me when reading this verse. These two words are not always easily accepted or practiced. The words I am referring to are Obey and Submit. Both of these words give us the impression that someone is over us and telling us what we should and should not do. It might be a parent, supervisor, manager, or even your pastor. God has put people in authority over our lives and it is in our best interest to submit and obey them as unto God. Think about that. You are not simply obeying your mom. You are obeying God. You are not simply submitting to your manager at work. You are submitting to God. We must also consider the opposite. I am not simply disobeying my earthly authority. I am also disobeying God.
An individual who is obedient and submissive to God will be obedient and submissive to any and all earthly authority. God has put us exactly where He wants us. Our testimony before the lost world is very important. In addition, we ought to be praying daily for those in authority over us. 1 Timothy 2:1-2, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for ALL that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."