GOD ORDAINED

Romans 13:1-7
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.

Respect for Authority

Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. 2 So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. 3 For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. 4 The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. 5 So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience.

6 Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.


We are in the midst of one of the most exciting presidential elections. In my lifetime, I have never seen one with more energy, more participation or more excitement. Personally, being one who enjoys politics even when it’s boring, I think this is great. The historical breakthrough for two of the final three candidates for their parities nomination (1st female and 1st minority with a legitimate shot at winning) are big part of the excitement.

When it is all said and done, we need to remember what Paul tells us here in Romans. Win or lose, your candidates outcome is ordained by God. “… those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.” No matter who wins, your and my responsibility as God believing citizens is to “…do what is right...” – respect authority … not be rebellious … pay taxes … respect and honor the God ordained position.

Like it or not, that’s God’s Word.