Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for nothing. For they are God’s servant, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.
—ROMANS 13:1–5
WE CANNOT WILLFULLY break the law, whether shooting too many ducks or anything else. We Christians, based on these texts, have to excel in being law-abiding citizens. Don’t forget that!
Prayer
Help us to make Jesus attractive to everyone by the way we live—never by disobedience to law enforcement. Amen.
—Phil