In what ways can we honor God's authority in our daily lives? Standing On the Truth: Jude 1:8 in Focus “Yet in the same way these dreamers defile their bodies, reject authority, and slander glorious beings.” Jude points out three marks of rebellion—moral impurity, refusal to submit, and careless speech. To honor God’s authority, we take the opposite path. Recognize God’s Rightful Rule First - Psalm 24:1—“The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof…” - 1 Chronicles 29:11—Everything belongs to Him; acknowledging this daily sets the tone for obedience. Obedience in Everyday Choices - John 14:15—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” - James 1:22—Doers, not hearers only. Practical steps: • Start each day with Scripture, asking, “What command can I obey today?” • Finish the day recounting tangible acts of obedience. Purity of Body and Mind - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20—Your body is God’s temple. - Philippians 4:8—Think on what is pure. Honor His authority by: • Fleeing sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18). • Filtering media through Philippians 4:8 standards. Respect for Delegated Authorities - Romans 13:1—“There is no authority except from God.” - Hebrews 13:17—Submit to church leaders who keep watch over souls. Application: • Obey civil laws unless they contradict God’s commands (Acts 5:29). • Speak well of pastors, parents, employers; pray for them (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Guard the Lips: Honoring with Speech - Ephesians 4:29—Only words that build up. - James 3:9-10—Bless the Lord and people made in His likeness. Choose: • Silence over slander. • Blessing over gossip. • Truth over flattering lies. Discernment Over “Dreams” and Ideas - 2 Corinthians 10:5—Take every thought captive to Christ. - Acts 17:11—Examine everything by Scripture. When an idea or “vision” surfaces: • Compare it with clear biblical teaching. • Submit feelings to the final authority of God’s written Word. Service and Stewardship as Submission - Colossians 3:17—Do everything in Jesus’ name. - Colossians 3:23—Work heartily for the Lord, not for men. Daily habits: • Treat work tasks, chores, and studies as offerings to God. • Use time, money, abilities for His purposes (Matthew 25:14-30). A Posture of Humility - Micah 6:8—Walk humbly with your God. - 1 Peter 5:6—“Humble yourselves under God’s mighty hand…” Live out humility by: • Confessing sin quickly. • Giving thanks continually (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Putting others’ interests ahead of your own (Philippians 2:3-4). Living It Out Today - Begin with acknowledging His ownership of every moment. - Continue through conscious obedience, purity, respectful speech, and humble service. - End each day by reviewing how His authority shaped your actions, words, and thoughts. |
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