A U T H O R I T Y

I Peter 2:13-14

Who are the people with authority in your world of sport?  You probably thought of coaches, officials, professors, conference administrators, parents, the University president or others.  What is your attitude toward such authorities, is it one of submission or defiance?  Is it more like obedience or rebellion?  Why should that matter to us?

Peter shares some insight into these thoughts in his first letter at chapter 2 and verses 13 and 14 where he writes, “Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by Him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good.”

Some of the people who have authority over us we like and respect, that makes it a little easier to submit to their leadership.  Others are a little tougher to follow. 

Whether easy or difficult, the real motivation for submitting to proper authority is in Peter’s words, “…for the Lord’s sake…”  We can exercise self control and submit to our leadership even when they’re having their worst days.  We can do the right thing and model proper behavior even in the face of poor character and bad leadership.

Let’s all have a great competition today and so show the best of character.  Let’s model for the world and for our leaders a submissive attitude and proper respect for all those in authority.

Bible Reading Plan:
I John 3:11-18
Job 14
Ezekiel 38-39