Government
Devotion 5: Will of God
Dr. Randy T. Johnson
“Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people.” 1 Peter 2:13-15
What is the will of God for your life? Since will means desire, what is God’s desire for your life? This is a question that has been contemplated by many for years. We want to know what God wants us to do! The starting point is not who to marry, what school to go to, where to live, or what job you should take. It is salvation. In 2 Peter 3:9, we read, “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” The most important starting point in determining God’s will for our lives is that we believe and repent. We need to believe that Jesus died for our sins but rose again, conquering death and the grave. However, it should not stop there. We need to repent or turn from serving ourselves and live for the Lord.
Part of living for the Lord is described in this 1 Peter passage, “Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution.” When government does not contradict God and His Word, we need to be subject, submissive, or obedient to it. Peter goes on to tell us why, “For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people.” Our interaction with government and those in authority over us is part of the “will of God” for our lives. Please capture the goal Peter states, “By doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people.” Our lifestyle is a major part of our witnessing. It is our talk and our walk. We do not want to be viewed as hypocrites, selfish, or rebellious, as it could be a stumbling block for others coming to the Lord.
In every election, people are looking for a man or woman to save our country. No person or political party will save us. Only Jesus brings salvation, restoration, and peace. God has blessed America. It is time for America to bless God. Remember, part of blessing God is being a good citizen who obeys God first but is respectful to authority with words and actions.