praying effectively: Respect Authorities (Rom.13:1-7)

(Romans 13:1-7)  Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. 3 For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; 4 for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. 5 Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake. 6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. 7 Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. 

Reminder:  "praying effectively" involves knowing God's will.  When we pray in His will (in His name), He may choose to not answer those prayers in the time period that we would like, or HOW we would like - but He will answer those prayers!

It is God's will:

- that government leaders and authorities should be establishing a place of peace and safety, with a just legal system to punish those who break the law (13:3-4)

- that government leaders and authorities should serve God, and collect taxes in order to run things (13:6)

- that we pay our taxes, and dues (13:7)

- that we respect, honor and obey all government leaders and authorities, unless they tell us to do something that is against God's will (13:1-7)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for being in control.  In upcoming elections, guide us in our voting, and place in power the right people for the job.  Guide our leaders to pursue peace, safety and justice.  Keep our leaders accountable for their actions and how they manage tax money.

Help us to show respect and honor towards those leading us, by how we obey the laws of the land, as well as how we hold discussions on the topic of politics.  Help believers to not be critical regarding how someone voted, or who is in power.  Guide our words to be gracious and encouraging.

If there are injustices that need addressing, give us the wisdom to know how to effect appropriate change.  May we show the world God's love and common sense.  Amen.