Romans 13:1–5  Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.

We are approaching another presidential election, which has become very interesting. Many of the folks I’ve talked to have voiced their displeasure with both candidates from the major parties. Let me just encourage you to pray about it, ask God to give you wisdom and discernment, and don’t neglect your right to vote.

Can you be respectful of and obedient to a government with which you strongly disagree? The answer, of course, is yes. Christians have been doing that down through the ages. However, our first and foremost allegiance is to our God. These words from Romans 13 are to understood in the context of all Scripture, which also tells us “We must obey God rather than men!” (Acts 5:29)

When Paul encourages the faithful in Rome to submit to the governing authorities, they were under a regime that was hostile to those who followed the one true God. Yet they were called to be good citizens and more: they were to live such good lives that others would notice and wonder why. And that would open the door for them to share the reason for the hope that was in them: what Jesus did for all people through His life, death and resurrection.

That is our calling still today. We are to live as citizens of God’s kingdom here on earth, no matter who the governing authorities may be. We are to let the light of Christ shine through us in our words and actions. After all, we know that for Jesus’ sake we have forgiveness for all our sins and life forever with him.