Praying with Paul: 'Authority'

Dear Father, from whom all power comes,

Help me to show proper respect for the duly constituted authority of government. Help me to do what is good, that I may receive the approval of those who serve you for the enforcement of good order.

Teach me to be subject, not only to avoid the punishment of the state and to avoid your wrath, but also for the sake of my own conscience.

Give me the integrity to pay taxes to whom taxes are due, to give revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due.

May my subjection to proper human authority reflect my subjection to your authority. Don't let me resist your will and incur judgment from you.

In the name of Jesus, who has all authority, I pray. Amen.