Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.(1 Peter 2:13-17)
We live is a messed up with messed up people, of which I am one the most messed up! However, God still demands our obedience . . . even to those we may disagree with at times.
We are to respect those in authority. We are not to ridicule them, joke about them, and otherwise embarrass them. There is no room for private jokes, off-line humor, or in-house cliques.
This is hard for both adults
and kids today. As adults, we find it easy to chime in on negative comments about our President, local officials, or even our bosses and religious leaders. Teens and chldren will find opportunity to put down parents and family traditions and beliefs when surrounded by peers. However, a life of obedience is God's design for His children . . . young and old alike!
Willing obedience, as long as it does not counter God's principles brings blessings. It leads to a better life. It brings peace to the soul! It brings God to the forefront for all to see!
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is . . . his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:1-2)
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