MARCH 17, 2023
Who do YOU report to? More than likely someone that has the authority, the right, the power, or the control to give orders, make decisions for your life, and enforce obedience. Who do you listen to, (or fail to listen) in receiving your marching orders? The government? the commander in chief? an unelected bureaucrat? a manager? a supervisor? a spouse? your parents? or maybe a higher power? Authority promotes command, control, dominion, jurisdiction, power, and sway. In America, a presumed civil state, authority is practiced in ways, such as a judicial brand of government, which seems to have worked for over 200 years. We elect people who have power to make laws and decisions and to make sure the laws are obeyed. Sadly, some of those in authority are failing the people and society by not doing their job. Corruption, insecurities, cover-ups, civil unrest, and deception rule the day. For many, it is incompetence or lack of understanding their mission and who they report to in the first place.
Since our upcoming workbook is about faith, family, and our careers, I hope each one of you think about who you really report to in your own life. It is okay to question authority. (At least we still have that freedom) But when authority is not doing their job, then chaos prevails at all levels. For Example, your Elevator Guy has noticed, over the last fifty years, that many of our children often challenge or question the authority of their parents. (If they even have parents) There seems to be a lack of respect for any authority whatsoever.
Ancient understandings of authority trace back to the Roman empire and draw later from Catholic thought and other traditional understandings. Historical application of authority becomes political authority which in America, should include; “For all of the people and by the people.” (“You.. you…know the thing”)(ha!)
Since we should be leaning on our faith first and planning a righteous legacy in life, I thought I would remind you of an authority that lasts forever. There is no authority that can ever be overthrown and that is the Kingdom of God. So, those of us believers can rejoice in HOPE because King Jesus has already won the victory for us. (Isn’t that a refreshing way of looking at and respecting authority?)
God has established two types of authority. The spiritual and temporal for our good and the good of all people. Temporal authority is an early modern political philosophy that refers to a worldly power, (those who seek it often become relentless and ruthless in their endeavors) as contrasted with spiritual power for good. The temporal government is to preserve external peace and to prevent evil deeds. (Support your local police) The spiritual authority is “The God-given right to receive and use God’s power that flows from the indwelling of the Holy spirit.” (Charles Kraft) The biblical meaning of authority is: “the power or ability to do something given by, conferred upon, or derived from a higher authority.” However, I would like you to think about Romans 13:1, which 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 our creator.” Not a political party.
Lots to unpack in understanding true authority as our country and society in general faces numerous external and internal threats to our democratic republic. Take a moment to reflect on WHO you report to in your life. Start at the bottom and work your way up. Then turn right back around and share your true voice with others, as they are looking for someone good to report to. WHO do you report to?
Elevator Guy
Quote for the Day: “He fills the body, directs its movements, controls its members, inspires wisdom, and supplies its strength. He guides into truth, sanctifies its agents, and empowers for witnessing. The Spirit has never abdicated HIS authority nor relegated HIS power.” Samuel Chadwick