John 19:11

John 19:11 - Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.” Pilate tells Jesus, “Don’t you understand that I have the power to either free you or crucify you?” Answering him Jesus says that the power he has is only what God has given him. All power is given from heaven; there is no power other than what God gives. That doesn't mean that everyone in power does what is right with that power. In fact many people abuse it or do evil with it, but God can take it away whenever He wants. Look at the kings of the Old Testament. As you read through their stories you will see how those who served God also had His favor in their lives. Their reigns prospered and they lived long. Then there were the wicked kings. They often suffered through their reigns and then died prematurely, either of sickness or in battle. So we see that God gives power and He can take it away. Whatever power you have been given, use it wisely. Don’t let it go to your head, but let it work for you to spread the kingdom of God. Whoever is is in authority is there because God allowed them to be and God will use that person in one way or another. If that person does evil God is not the cause of it, but He will make good come out of it. We may not always see it right away, but that is where we trust God. So honor those in authority, whether you agree with them or not, but live your life according to God’s authority.