1 Peter 2:13-17

Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. – 1 Peter 2:13-17

Dear Jesus,

I love this list of godly ways I can live out my faith in you.  My culture believes it has the right and obligation to castigate rulers and point out their foibles.  In my sinful nature I love to join their choir.  Teach me the rudiments of respect that make me hold my tongue and honor the people who hold offices of high trust. Help me to deeply love every member of your flock and make me a champion of humanitarian missions.   I want to be the kind of Christian that loves all people so much that I will stay ready to meet their spiritual and physical needs at every moment.  Give me friends and associates that have the same godly insight that you are giving me so we can multiply our efforts to bless people with your saving works. 

AMEN

Pastor Don Patterson

Freedom is the power to serve others without being enslaved by discontent with the price it brings.