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 1 Timothy 6:1-2 - Show Respect

        We don’t show respect for authority out of blind deference.  Our motives are important.  The Christian always uses good discretion in obedience to God’s word.  We do not show favoritism, nepotism, or boot-licking deference creating a dysfunctional culture of people worship.  We respect authority because of God’s command to do so and because of His purposes.  God loves all people.  Yes, including your boss.  More than that, including all of our enemies.

        I’ve worked for some incredibly difficult bosses and clients over the years.  Some downright evil.  Law School simply can’t teach all of the ethical dilemmas that will face an attorney over your career.  Ethics are God’s standards and must be ingrained, reinforced with good rules, and adhered to.  We prepare for the ethical challenges ahead by growing in godliness today.

        That’s what we see here.  Our respect for others comes from God’s standards.  God loves all people and patiently waits for them to turn to Him.  He gives ample light and ample time to every human being for them to turn to Him.  Our aim is to honor God and to work as though we are working for the Lord Jesus.  Trust means that we do not need to know all things.  We are nowhere near that important.  Trust God.  Trust that He is using you right now to help other believers as you influence and work for the good of others.

        God has a reason for every season in your life.  Israel was the adulterous, rebellious bride.  She stubbornly refused to serve God (Jeremiah 2:20).  She was an unfaithful wife tragically in love with foreign gods (Jeremiah 2:25).  Her conscience was dead.  Like a thief who only feels guilty when he gets caught (Jer. 2:26), she did not know God's standards because she rejected Him.  Christians, we must not be like that.  We must not be lukewarm.  When God disciplines us it is for the good of His Kingdom.  It is to bring us to our senses and to bring us back to our first love.  Let's respond well to God's call and obey Christ alone.

        Lord Jesus, please help us today to love others because You love them.  Help us to be peacemakers, good ambassadors, and adroit reconcilers.  Help us to show respect and love in every situation with wisdom that comes from Your Spirit.  Forbid it Lord Jesus that we should disgrace the name of Jesus Christ and Your clear instructions.  Amen.


Kari with one of our ancestors, Edinburgh, Scotland.


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