authority

Bright people learn to recognize and respect authority. Life works better when you do. Everyone has a boss. Even programs at church have key stake holders.

When we were in seminary, one of the key pieces of advice that we were given was this, "do not argue with the United Methodist Women."

I promise you that I ran the daffodil idea through our landscape leader, Jonnie W. We will buy bulbs thru them. But I have only heard from six of you. I am not giving up on this idea. Who will help, purchase or plant bulbs this fall? [Rocky soil, please send me a note or let me know who you are so I can contact you later.]

Back to authority. It has been an interesting challenge to teach teenage children how to respect authority. Bosses at their jobs, teachers, police, etc. Hard to learn, but a very important skill to learn for success in this life. If we can't honor those whom God has put in authority over us, what does that say?

1Everyone 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 God. 2Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. 7Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. Romans 13:1-7

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.