WEEK 23 – DAY 1

ALL AUTHORITY IS FROM GOD

Jesus said, “You haven’t a shred of authority over me except what has been given you from heaven.” John 19:11a (MSG)

Jesus already knew what Paul would later teach in Romans 13:1 (CJB), “Everyone is to obey the governing authorities. For there is no authority that is not from God, and the existing authorities have been placed where they are by God.” Pilate only had the authority to condemn Jesus because God had raised him to the that place of power to be used for His purposes and glory. Jesus had to be condemned to death in order to become the perfect sacrificial Lamb of God to pay the penalty for our sin.

Our current political situation in the United States of America is troubling. However, we need not be in abject terror because our God is still King of kings and Lord of lords and is in control. No matter who wins an election, God will still be orchestrating HIStory. That does not absolve us of the privilege and responsibility to vote after praying for the Lord’s guidance. Once leaders are voted into place, we are to respect them and obey the laws unless, of course, they require us to violate God’s commands. If God calls us to civil disobedience, He will deliver us or sustain us. Our confidence must be in our Heavenly Father over and above any earthly president, congress, supreme court, etc. An excellent verse for today is Psalm 37:7 (VOICE), “Be still. Be patient. Expect the Eternal to arrive and set things right. Don’t get upset when you see the worldly ones rising up the ladder. Don’t be bothered by those who are anchored in wicked ways.”

Father, Jesus spoke the truth that Pilate had no real authority over Him because he had been placed into position by You. Jesus humbly placed Himself in Your hands, obeying to the point of dying on the cross. Father, help us to remember that all authority is ultimately within Your control and to trust that You will deliver or sustain us through difficult times.