Excel Still More
The Excel Still More podcast is designed to help Christians excel in their faith, their relationships, and really every part of their lives. If you are interested in growth in your faith, this is the show for you. If you want to see yourself reach greater heights, achieve powerful spiritual goals, and be a better servant of Christ, we are here to help. Each episode introduces a proven principle for achieving more. Then we show how the Word of God amplifies the idea. Finally, each episode will leave you with at least one practical project so you can put these tools into action today!Thanks for joining! Live your best life in Christ, and in whatever you do: Excel Still More!
Excel Still More
Romans 13 - Daily Bible Devotional
Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
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Youtube Video Introducing the Content
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Romans 13
Identifying marks of a Christian include a proper attitude toward civil authorities, a passionate love for fellow believers, and a disciplined readiness for Christ’s return. Regarding authority, God’s people recognize that He establishes all governments, and submission to them is obedience to Him, so long as sin is not involved. Paying taxes and honoring leaders are hallmarks of a faithful life. Moreover, great honor and care are shown to fellow believers. Love does no harm to a neighbor, particularly those of the faith. This shared faith is connected to trust in Christ’s return. Therefore, God’s people live with urgency and awareness, setting aside deeds of darkness and donning the armor of light. In every aspect, they are diligent to serve Jesus and make no provision for the sins of the flesh.
Christianity is profoundly counter-cultural. Many worldly individuals resist the constraints of authority in favor of self-will. However, the children of God submit fully to the Father, even when it means obeying local governments, as we trust in God’s power to accomplish good through them. Our attitude toward the government reflects our faith. We show honor wherever God instructs, including to fellow Christians. Guided by God’s love, we embrace our brethren in all circumstances and extend Christ-like affection to everyone. We also resist worldly influences and honor God by managing our desires, attitudes, and impulses, being careful to deny the flesh daily. Each day brings believers one step closer to seeing Jesus, and this expectation affects every aspect of our lives.
Sovereign Father, thank You for establishing order through governing authorities and for the freedoms we enjoy in our country. Help us to cultivate holiness in our outlook and to submit to leadership with humility, integrity, and complete trust in You. Fill our hearts with hope and gratitude, and teach us to manifest those qualities in how we love one another. We pray for wisdom to live out Christ’s law of love, making moral, sober choices so that we are always prepared to meet our King. Forgive our sins of the flesh as we eliminate provisions for sin and choose holiness.
Thought Questions:
- What is the right attitude toward governing authorities? What do we teach people about faith when we pay taxes and honor officials?
- “Love does no wrong to a neighbor.” Is there ever a good reason to mistreat someone? How important is our treatment of others to the Lord?
- What does it mean to “make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lust”? How do you apply this passage to things like “strife and jealousy”?