Day 116: God-Given Authority – Trusting the One Who Leads Us

Biblical Principle – Absolute Truth from God’s Word

One of the incredible comforts of walking with the Lord is knowing that He does not leave His people to wander without guidance. Scripture shows a clear pattern: God sets up leaders—not man. This divine appointment is not just for structure but for our protection and direction.

In Deuteronomy 34:9, we are reminded of this truth as the mantle of leadership passed from Moses to Joshua:

“And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the LORD commanded Moses.”

The Israelites didn’t hold a vote to choose who would lead them into the Promised Land. God had already decided. Joshua was full of the Spirit and appointed by God through Moses. This was not mere human succession—it was divine selection. The people had to trust and follow.

Practical Application – Living Out the Truth

So, what does this look like today? How do we live in the light of this biblical truth?

It starts by recognizing God’s authority in every area of life, especially regarding leadership within the body of Christ. Hebrews 13 gives us a sobering but encouraging directive:

“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account…” (Hebrews 13:17)

God doesn’t just establish leaders for organizations—He creates them to watch for our souls. That’s a serious calling for both the leader and the follower. But we must be careful, just like the Israelites had to be cautious with Joshua. They began to confuse God’s leadership with human leadership.

Yes, Joshua was their leader, but the power behind Joshua was always God. When they followed Joshua with their eyes fixed on God, they thrived. When they lost sight of who was ultimately in charge, they stumbled.

The same can happen to us.

A Practical Example:
If you’re a local church member, take a moment today to pray for your pastor and church leaders. Acknowledge that God has placed them in your life to preach on Sundays and help shepherd your walk with Him. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking leadership is just about titles or personality. It’s about obedience to God’s order and trusting His hand in every appointment.

When disagreements arise, remember that God is not the author of confusion. He has a purpose for godly authority, and when we submit to His design, we find peace and protection—even in uncertain seasons.

Final Thought:
God is always in charge. Leaders may change, but His sovereignty never does. Jesus Christ is “the same yesterday, and today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Let’s live in that truth, walk in obedience, and trust the leadership He places in our lives—not blindly, but with hearts anchored in faith, humility, and grace.

Prayer for Today:
Lord, thank You for being the ultimate authority in my life. Help me to recognize and honor the leaders You’ve placed around me. Keep my heart submitted to You first, and guide me in wisdom and humility. Amen.