Do I really love my City?

For my reading today, I found myself in Roman's reading chapter 13

It says;
Everyone must submit himself 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, he who 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 he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent 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. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

It’s interesting that I read these verses now. Lately, our church as been dealing with some big un-knows with our city as it pertains to our new building. It’s been very hard to keep good thoughts in my mind about the city. I’m sure I’m not the only one in our church family that has struggled with ill thoughts of our city leadership.

But as I read these verses again, I see a valuable lesson for me.

First of all, as a leader in our church, I need to set the standard to encourage others to do the same thing. So a little reflection was called for and some confession was made.

Secondly, it’s not by mistake that these leaders our in the places they are during the this time. As it states in Romans, God places these people in these places . . .and here this . . for the reason for me to grow up.

Thirdly, these people are for my good . . .so, the question, is, there needs to be good found in what is happening here. So what is the good? Our church must be ready to shine in our city, especially when it comes to how we will be working with the city over the next few months to see our project completed. We have a golden opportunity to turn our present thoughts around to be a great testimony of God’s grace to our city leaders.

Lord Help us.

Have an Awesome Day

David