Submitting to God’s Servants with Trust
1 Peter 2:18 (KJV)
18 "Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward."
It can be challenging to submit to leaders, especially when they’re imperfect or seem to fall short in some way. Yet, the Bible reminds us that submission to those God has placed over us, even if they are flawed, is ultimately an act of trust in God Himself. 1 Peter 2:18 encourages us to respect and submit to leaders, not only when they are gentle but also when they may be difficult or even “froward” (harsh). This isn’t about blind obedience but about placing our trust in God’s authority. Throughout history, God has worked through imperfect servants to accomplish His will.
Moses killed an egyptian, David was an adulterer and murderer, and Noah was a drunk. Although these people were flawed, they were the chosen vessels to lead God's people. When we honor the authority God has set over us, we’re acknowledging His ability to work through anyone for His purpose.
When we submit to God’s servants, we’re trusting God to lead through them.
The Bible shows that God can use anyone to fulfill His purpose. Moses doubted himself, Noah faced ridicule, and David made mistakes, yet God used each one powerfully.
Submitting to leaders isn’t about their perfection but his protection. The servants are actually less qualified to lead than most but this is also why they must rely on God more intimately and closely. We as Pastors, Ministers, and servants cannot live without the grace of God. We understand that we can do nothing else and that's what makes us seek God so much.
When we submit, we’re essentially allowing God to work through these individuals, trusting that He will direct their steps and ours. God holds the hearts of leaders in His hand, and He can direct them for the good of His people.
It’s natural to feel uneasy about submitting to flawed leaders, especially a gang leader like me. I have weaknesses and lackings just like the rest of us. But this is perfect opportunity to rely on God. If we believe that God is truly in control, then we can trust Him to work through any situation and any servant. Why wouldn't he be able to? He's the almighty God!
God doesn’t ask us to put our faith in people’s perfection, God asks us to put our faith in his plan. Different P's.
When we submit to the servants of God, we’re showing that we trust God’s hand to guide and correct as needed. Romans 13:1 (KJV) reminds us, 1 "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." God ordains all authority, and when we honor that, we honor Him.
I hope today we can truly trust in God to direct all our paths through the people he has sent into his lives.
Amen!