The Powers That Be

The phrase comes from Paul, speaking of the need to submit to worldly authorities: “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God” (Rom. 13:1 KJV). This verse has aroused much controversy, since it says, in essence, if you are living under a horrible, cruel government, submit to it. Is it ever right to disobey the “powers that be”? The New Testament has another view, heard when the apostles were on trial for preaching the gospel: “We ought to obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29).

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

The Inspiration of Spiritual Initiative

Oswald Chambers

When the inspiration of God does come, it comes with such miraculous power that we are able to arise from the dead and do the impossible thing. God does not give us overcoming life; He gives us life as we overcome.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

The Determination To Serve

Oswald Chambers

The mainspring of Paul 's service is not love for men, but love for Jesus Christ. Paul's realization of how Jesus Christ had dealt with him is the secret of his determination to serve others.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

What God’s Love Can’t Do

Billy Graham

God cannot forgive the unrepentant sinner. The human race is called on throughout the Bible to repent of sin and return to God. This love of God can be entirely rejected. God will not force Himself upon any man against his will.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Pure and Powerful

Zig Ziglar

Too often, we value all received messages equally. God’s Word, though, is more precious and valuable than any other message sent to us. The psalmist describes God’s message as “pure words” that are like silver processed “seven times” in the furnace.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

The Secret of Contentment

Zig Ziglar

Somewhere along the way, Paul learned the secret of contentment. He realized that possessions, fame, beauty, and other earthly things can be pleasant for a while, but they can never produce genuine contentment. That comes from the inside.