3 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14 or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15 For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16 Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.
18 Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. 19 For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. 20 But
how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and
endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is
commendable before God. 21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
There is a good amount to "chew" on here but one key area where I know I need further refinement is in the area of respect, specifically with regard to "taming my tongue":
6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. James 3:6
Whether it be my family, my workplace, my church, etc., I ask God to further refine me in the area of taming my tongue - to be less harsh and more encouraging and respectful.
My Prayer: Lord, You are love and Your words for me are FULL of love and respect. On the contrary my words are often harsh and disrespectful. I know You have cleansed me of my sin and You have blessed me beyond what I deserve - for this I am thankful. Today Lord I ask that You please forgive me for the harshness of my tongue. Please help me tame my tongue and to be respectful to everyone.
