3 December 2025
Paul shows us that earthly authority is not an accident. It is God’s design for our protection. Mark Penrith said, “God’s rulers reward good and punish evil, so submit to them, not because you have to, but because it is right.” Scripture affirms this clearly. “For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad” (Romans 13:3 CSB). When the state functions as it should, it restrains evil. It promotes peace. It creates order that allows ordinary people to flourish. Paul’s words remind us that God uses civil authority as His instrument of common grace. This is why we must see authority not as a burden but as a gift.
Mark went further and said, “The state is a guardian of good, a restrainer of evil.” Paul asks us a simple question. “Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority” (Romans 13:3 CSB). The answer is equally simple. “Do what is good, and you will have its approval” (Romans 13:3 CSB). When we obey the law, we benefit from the protection God provides through imperfect governments. Even corrupt systems still carry out basic functions that God uses for our good. Mark said, “When serving as intended, the state is a gift from God for our good.” We experience this every day without noticing it. Traffic laws keep our roads safe. Police restrain violence. Schools build order into society. These are mercies from God through ordinary means.
Paul is emphatic about the nature of authority. “For it is God’s servant for your good” (Romans 13:4 CSB). Mark highlighted this when he said, “Those who rule are more than civic officials. They are executors of divine wrath.” The state carries the sword to punish those who do evil. This is not cruelty. It is justice. God restrains chaos by giving authority to rulers who act on His behalf. Even when we feel frustrated or disillusioned, we must remember that God stands behind every legitimate authority. He protects us through them. He orders society through them. He enforces justice through them. This is His kindness to us.
Mark concluded, “Our submission is not about the character of the leader, but about the character of God.” We obey because God is good. We trust because God is sovereign. We submit because God is wise. Today, look for one area where the state clearly protects or blesses you. Give thanks to God for His care through ordinary governance. Point it out to your children. Show them that obedience and gratitude are part of worship.
Prayer: Father, thank You for using authority for my good. Teach me to trust Your design. Help me see Your kindness in the ordinary protections of life. Make my heart grateful and obedient. Amen.