What responsibilities do we have when God appoints leaders over us?

◄ Our duties under God-appointed leaders? ►

Recognizing God’s Appointment

1 Samuel 12:13: “Now therefore, here is the king you have chosen, the one you asked for. Behold, the LORD has set a king over you.”

• “Behold, the LORD has set” reminds us leadership is ultimately placed by God’s sovereign hand (cf. Romans 13:1).

• Our first duty is to acknowledge God as the One who appoints—even when the process involves human choice or flawed motives (Daniel 2:21).

Accepting Authority with Reverence

• Submission is not blind allegiance to a person but obedient reverence toward God (1 Peter 2:13-17).

• As long as commands do not contradict God’s Word, we obey (Acts 5:29 sets the exception).

• Obedience includes everyday civility: paying taxes, honoring laws, respecting offices (Romans 13:6-7).

Fearing the LORD First

1 Samuel 12:14-15 pairs with verse 13: obedience to God precedes everything.

• “Fear the LORD,” then “serve and obey” the king.

• We never trade holiness for political convenience (Psalm 118:8).

Serving Faithfully Under Human Leaders

• Work diligently—our excellence reflects on our King (Colossians 3:23-24).

• Support community order: Titus 3:1, “be subject… ready for every good work.”

• Pray consistently: 1 Timothy 2:1-2 commands intercession “for kings and all in authority.”

Holding Leaders Accountable to God’s Standard

• Samuel warned both people and king to “follow the LORD” (1 Samuel 12:14).

• Righteous confrontation is biblical (2 Samuel 12; Nathan and David).

• Use lawful, respectful means: speak truth, vote wisely, advocate justice (Proverbs 31:8-9).

Guarding Against Idolatry of Leaders

• Israel risked looking to a king instead of God; we can do the same with modern figures.

• Psalm 146:3 – “Do not put your trust in princes.”

• Prioritize kingdom values over party lines or personalities.

Trusting God Behind the Throne

• Even imperfect rulers are tools in God’s hand (Proverbs 21:1).

• Rest in His ultimate rule; earthly power is temporary, Christ’s reign is eternal (Revelation 11:15).

Living as Citizens of Heaven and Earth

• Dual citizenship means honoring temporal authority while anticipating the perfect King.

• Hebrews 13:14 reminds us: “For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.”