#TheResistance 

(Romans 13:1-2 ESV) Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.

Growing up in America has always been a source of pride for me. I grew up in a small midwestern farm town where hard work, honesty, family, and faith were honored. Except for the occasional rebel, most of the people I knew were good folks, and genuinely cared for each other. Parents were respected, and those in authority were seen as servants of the community. For someone to disrespect governing authorities was a rarity, and there was a high price to pay for those who chose to do so.

Something has happened in our great nation that is alarming. I’m not sure who’s to blame; truth be told, there is enough blame to go around for everyone. Disrespect is at an all-time high and people just don’t seem to care who they offend. Fights break out over parking spots, gunshots are commonly reported on the morning news, murders are rampant; people are afraid to open their doors.

Politicians and celebrities are duking it out on a daily basis. Comedians are some of the worst offenders by using their monologues to twist their routines to leverage the latest leak, or mistake. And honestly, the politicians heap fuel on the fire by their shady deals, behind the scenes activities, and blatant lies to protect their indiscretions. Every one is at fault and no one seems to want to try to change the direction we have taken.

There is now a movement called #theresistance. Politicians are joining; celebrities are pushing it. It seems it is the cool thing to do. The problem with resistance is it seldom finds a good place to stop, and rarely cares who it hurts in the process. #Theresistance seems to have at its very center the destruction of everything in its path.

God has a better plan than man. And, it works on every level. Families benefit from it. Governments are more effective when it is adhered to. Society as a whole improves when it is evident. What is it? Respect. Simple respect for those who have been entrusted to the job.

I’m not suggesting that we shouldn’t speak up against wrongdoing. Obviously, there are times when our voice must be heard loud and clear in order to stop evil. But, for the most part, much difficulty could be totally avoided by simply respecting authority.

I don’t start an argument when the clerk at the grocery store asks me to slide my debit card through the machine. I don’t speed through the intersection when the crossing guard blows the whistle and raises her hand. It’s my choice to comply or rebel.

So, I’ve made up my mind. I’m joining #theresistance. Starting today, I intend to resist the humanistic philosophy to rebel. I will resist the desires of the flesh to lash out at everyone I disagree with. I will resist hurting others so that I can gain the upper hand. I will resist the desire to make everyone look bad; to suggest there is evil in every detail.

Authority is God’s good idea. It makes society a better place to live. Respect the authorities… Hmmm, sounds like a good plan.

PRAYER: Father, we need your help in America today. Things are completely out of control. But, I know that You are still in control. You possess and distribute authority at Your will. Help us to respond positively to Your will on earth; even as it is in heaven. Amen.