Since the day that the first man and woman ate the forbidden fruit, mankind has struggled with authority.
Many want to have authority, but they do not want to be under it. Society has always resented being told what to do, how to live, how to act and how to treat each other. Yet, everyone for the most part, wants to have a society that is ruled and governed by a set of standards that protect their rights while it encourages their freedoms.
For the most part there can be a good balance when the authority in charge rules in favor of the people and not a particular agenda; especially if that agenda happens to support and build up the one in authority or leadership.
I Samuel 18 contrast those two types of authorities. One is a godless authority in which King Saul ruled. While Saul’s leadership did not start out being ungodly, it sadly deteriorated and ended up that way. David on the other hand ruled as a godly leader. While he too made mistakes during his time as King, for the most part he ruled his people with care and wisdom and he always repented when confronted by God for a wrong that he had committed.
All authority originates with God according to Romans 13. The Bible also states in Proverbs 29:2 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.
That simply means that when a leader rules with godly discernment and wisdom, the people prosper and rejoice in good times. Godly authority is to be reveared thereby in helping us to live right and protect our conscience, by not doing wrong, according to Romans 13.
David experienced firsthand how it was to serve and live under a godless authority and he became a remarkable teacher for us, in understanding our function in the context of both godless and godly authorities.
Like David, God wants us to learn that we must be transparent with others, wherever we are in whatever situation we may be in and who we really are.
David had to learn that God was God in the wilderness just as He was in the palace of Kings and kingdoms. What is your circumstance this moment sweet friend? Are you struggling with leaderhip or some type of authority right now? The Bible says that obedience is better than sacrifice.
Do not allow your moments to cause you to be a victim but allow them to cause you to reach for victory over every circumstance and keep loving no matter what!
Through humility and love for others, and continued seeking God in your situation, you too can provide the proper support in your circle or simply be the proper leader that the world needs more of!
Hold Fast,
Bren
