Under His Authority

Today we’re talking about a word that might make you sit up a little straighter: authority. 

Now, before you think of flashing red lights or someone wagging a finger, let’s flip the script. God’s authority isn’t about control or fear—it’s about peace, protection, and the promise that He’s got this. When Jesus says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me,” that’s not just a statement—it’s a comfort. So, let’s dig in. Grab that coffee, pull up a chair, and let’s talk about what it means to live under God’s authority—not just in theory, but in our everyday lives.

Matthew 28:18 (NLT) — “Jesus came and told his disciples, ‘I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.’”

Let’s start with the basics—what does it even mean that God has authority? I can tell you this: it’s not about barking orders. It’s about rightful power, complete love, and a plan that’s better than anything we could come up with.

It’s like being a parent.

From speed limits to parenting rules, we live under authority all the time—and when it works well, it brings peace and order. When we trust God's authority, it works the same way. He sees the full map, not just the stretch of road we’re on.

Let’s be real—we all like to do things our way. But how often has that led to stress, frustration, or straight-up disaster? Submitting to God’s authority doesn’t mean we lose ourselves—it means we find security in His leadership.

I can personally say, being a former control freak, that oftentimes my way only made things worse. It was when God started to heal that controlling part of me that I understood what it meant to submit all to Him and to lean and rely on His authority.

Authority in God brings peace and comfort to our lives.

Think of a time when you let go of control and trusted God’s direction—what happened?

Maybe God closed a door, and now you see why. Or maybe you stepped out in faith, not knowing how it would work. Maybe you just stayed consistent and didn’t try to do things on your own, but trusted in Him.

That’s what life under God’s authority looks like—sometimes uncertain but always covered.

Trust the One who holds all authority. Because let’s be honest—if you don’t trust someone, you’re not likely to listen to them. So how do we grow our trust in God?

We can turn to His Word and know that what He says is true, and we can read that He keeps His promises.

Matthew 28:18 (NLT) — “Jesus came and told his disciples, ‘I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.’”

Have you ever really wanted something—a job, a relationship, a dream that has been on your heart and mind for a long time—but then God said no? At first, there is deep disappointment. But then as you move forward and you look back, His no was protection. God doesn’t always explain Himself, but He never leads us wrong.

I think it is the hardest to hear a no… I say that because I remember what it was like when I was younger when my parents said no, and now I see the disappointment on my kids’ faces when we say no. But the thing is, when we know God’s plans are better and we are obedient even in the no, we can be sure that His plans are greater.

Some people picture God’s authority as a strict rule-keeper. But what if we viewed Him more like a loving parent? The kind who sets boundaries not to limit us, but to protect and guide us toward joy and growth.

It's easy to trust God for the big things like eternity or healing, but what about daily choices—how we respond to people, how we spend our time, our thoughts and feelings, or what we watch or listen to? God’s authority shows up in the little decisions and everyday things.

If there’s something you’re holding onto today—something you’re trying to manage on your own—consider handing it back to God. Say, “You’re in charge, Lord. I trust You.” Just try it. See what peace follows when you’re under His umbrella.

Matthew 28:18 (NLT) — “Jesus came and told his disciples, ‘I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.’”

How do we live each day aware of and submitted to God’s authority without feeling like we’re being micromanaged?

The answer is: relationship.

We learn to trust people, and with that, we can feel like we can take them at their word, be confident that they can handle things, and just have a sense of comfort in their ability. We can have that same type of relationship with God. Trust is built in every relationship.

It seems backward, right? That submitting to authority would lead to freedom. But in God’s Kingdom, it’s true. When we trust Him, we’re free from anxiety, free from the pressure to have it all figured out, and free to live fully. It is so true.

How do we actually live out this submission or freedom? Start your day asking, “Lord, lead me today. Help me stay in step with You.”

When we are rooted in Scripture, and we stay connected to others who follow Him, we are taking each step knowing that He is guiding us. When we start each day with our hearts and minds on God first, we can often find ourselves pausing when something feels off and seeking the Lord.

Often, that’s the Spirit nudging you and calling your attention to something you need to pay attention to—and remember that God is in control. With Him, there is trust and freedom.

There will be days when trusting God’s authority is tough—when life doesn’t make sense or prayers seem unanswered. In those moments, it’s okay to be honest with God. He can handle your questions, and His authority doesn’t crumble under doubt.

I often think of the Psalms in this sense, because David literally laid it all out all the time with God. And with that, it helped him to be open and vulnerable. That kept him near God, because he loved God as a friend and Father.

So, when you are struggling, remember that you can trust God and know that He has authority over all things and has a plan in place.

I hope you’re walking away with this truth: God’s authority isn’t a burden—it’s a blessing. 

He sees all, knows all, and is always working for our good. So, let’s live with confidence under His covering.