JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Endurance, today’s Daily Challenge motivates us to show respect for those in authority.
If we look closely into the Bible, we see a strong emphasis on respect for other people, including authority figures.
One of those places is First Thessalonians 5:12, which says, “Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.”
With the stress of day-to-day ministry, leaders are refreshed by the respect and love from those who will support their work.
We can be a blessing to our spiritual leaders by partnering with them in ministry and praying for them. The Apostle Paul felt that respect from Timothy. He said in Philippians 2:22, “But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father, he has served with me in the work of the Gospel.” The name of Jesus is honored when we work together in a spirit of unity and respect.
Take the Daily Challenge to show respect for those in authority on the journey of faith.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Endurance, today’s Daily Challenge motivates us to submit to God’s authority.
Before we are willing to do that, it is quite likely that we need to be convinced that God is good and that His love is real.
The truth is that God’s goodness and love were revealed at the cross where Jesus died for our sin. Then, His resurrection power came to life 3 days later. Today, His redemption plan invites us to follow Jesus as Lord and Savior. This step requires humility, an awareness that we need God’s forgiveness.
James 4:6 tells us that ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. Submit yourselves then to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God, and he will come near to you.’
As we respect God’s authority and rely on His grace, He will be faithful to save us and lift us up at the proper time.
Take the daily challenge to submit to God’s authority and find grace for the journey of faith.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Moment of Celebration reflects on the righteous authority of God.
In Deuteronomy 10:17, Moses told the Israelites, “For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes.”
There is a familiar saying that makes the claim that “absolute power corrupts absolutely.” That would be a likely scenario in a kingdom ruled by flawed character. However, absolute power does not corrupt God, because He is holy and righteous. There is no flaw in Him. His judgments are true and just. His law is perfect. His power is supreme. His promises are dependable. His righteousness is a source of blessing for His people and purifies us from all sin through faith in the name of Jesus.
We need this kind of leader, someone who is great in power and good in virtue. Jesus is that kind of leader-without any moral imperfection and at the same time, merciful to all imperfect people who call on His name for forgiveness. Under His leadership, we have the guidance we need to walk in the ways of the Lord.
The righteous authority of God is a reason to be glad in the Year of Celebration.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
