This must change. We must repent from this common sin that we too often allow to thrive in our families, communities, and workplaces.
3. Disregard for Leadership
The last few years have shown us just how much our distrust of leadership has grown in our country. We question the intentions, motives, and just plain facts of every word and action from those placed in authority over us. We sound the battle cry of not being blind to what’s really happening around us, and that leads to a lack of submission.
Of course, we shouldn’t accept everything our leaders say or do uncritically. But our cynicism and distrust shouldn’t lead us to the common sin of disregard for leadership. I fear it happens far more than we’d like to admit. And it goes against what God has commanded us.
Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.
(Hebrews 13:17)
The world of the New Testament wasn’t always favorable to Christians, and this is still very true in other parts of the world. Yet the bible calls us to not make it difficult for those placed in authority over us to do their job.
Do not fret. They will be held accountable for the way they led those in their care. I think our suspicion of leaders treads into the territory of sin not when we disagree with them, but when we actively work against them in every way imaginable.
It can be a very thin line, especially in our country today. But we have to be cautious not to fall into this common sin. Ultimately, we must trust that, regardless of who’s in authority, God will care for us.
Certainly we can voice our opinions within the structures of the authority systems we are placed in, but we have to be aware of when that turns into sin. Simply put, a complete disregard for the leadership and authority placed in our lives is sin.
4. Labeling Pride as Self Worth
It has become very trendy to build up your self worth. The idea of pulling yourself by your bootstraps has taken on a modern form. We now have mantras, classes, and even counseling sessions dedicated entirely to you believing in yourself.
Really what we’ve done is slapped a new label on the common sin of pride and made it socially acceptable.
It’s important not to confuse self worth with self respect. Being confident in the worth and value placed in you by the Creator is not the same thing as pride.
