day 48

Day 48 Through The Bible

Church Helps
February 17, 2025•3 min read

Day 48: Honoring Authority—A Reflection of Our Love for God

Biblical Principle: Love and Obedience Go Hand in Hand

Our love for God is not merely a feeling or an abstract concept but is demonstrated through our obedience to His authority. This principle is deeply embedded in the first few commandments and extends to how we treat those in authority over us.

God has established earthly relationships to teach us a greater truth about Him. One of the clearest examples is His command to honor our parents.

Exodus 20:12 – Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

Ephesians 6:1-3 – Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

This commandment is not just about obedience; it promises longevity and well-being. When we submit to God's authority in our lives, we align ourselves with His divine order, and He blesses us accordingly.

Honoring Authority Beyond Our Parents

Our call to obedience extends beyond the home. The Bible teaches that respecting authority is essential in all aspects of life, including government leaders, spiritual authorities, and workplace supervisors.

1 Timothy 2:1-4 – I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, Who will have all men to be saved and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

Living a life of submission to authority allows us to reflect God’s truth and point others toward salvation. When we choose to respect and pray for those in authority—whether we agree with them or not—we are obedient to God’s Word.

Practical Application: Walking in Love and Submission

A Christian walk is not passive; it requires a deliberate commitment to live according to God's principles. Here are ways to apply this teaching:

  • Respect and obey your parents – This includes honoring them in your words, attitudes, and actions.

  • Submit to governing authorities – Even when policies are complex or leadership seems flawed, God calls us to obey, pray, and trust His sovereignty.

  • Obey spiritual leaders and mentors – God often speaks through those He places over us in our faith journey.

  • Practice love in all relationships – Our obedience to God is incomplete if we harbor hatred or resentment toward others.

1 John 4:20-21 – If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.

True love for God is proven in our love for others. Our faith is not genuine if we claim to love God but fail to show love and respect to those around us.

Conclusion: A Life That Reflects God's Truth

Honoring authority is not about blind obedience but about demonstrating our love for God through our actions. When we obey His commands, respect those in leadership, and love those around us, we become living testimonies of His grace.

Let us strive to live a life of obedience, knowing that in doing so, we are honoring earthly figures and ultimately glorifying God.

Honoring authority in the BibleBiblical obedience and blessingsChristian respect for parentsLove and obedience to GodSubmission to authority in ScriptureEphesians 6:1-3 explainedObedience in Christian life
Evangelist Dan Woltmann grew up in the home of full time Christian school teachers. Saved at the tender age of 5, Dan surrendered to preach at the age of 14; he preached his first sermon at 16 to his youth group. He was privileged to meet and to learn from many pillars of fundamentalism and outstanding preachers. From these men he developed a strong conviction on the truth of God’s Word. Dan’s ministry experience is vast and varied. From starting four Christian service Bible clubs in college, to revitalizing churches and church ministries now for nearly 35 years. Direct one on one to ministry leaders as well as demostrating Biblical Worldview in the corporate world.

Dan Woltmann

Evangelist Dan Woltmann grew up in the home of full time Christian school teachers. Saved at the tender age of 5, Dan surrendered to preach at the age of 14; he preached his first sermon at 16 to his youth group. He was privileged to meet and to learn from many pillars of fundamentalism and outstanding preachers. From these men he developed a strong conviction on the truth of God’s Word. Dan’s ministry experience is vast and varied. From starting four Christian service Bible clubs in college, to revitalizing churches and church ministries now for nearly 35 years. Direct one on one to ministry leaders as well as demostrating Biblical Worldview in the corporate world.

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