Not every leader is righteous, but God remains sovereign

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People in positions of authority carry a serious responsibility to be good stewards of what has been entrusted to them. Sometimes that stewardship involves possessions, resources, or systems. Other times—and far more importantly—it involves people. When lives are impacted by decisions made at the top, it becomes absolutely imperative that those in authority take intentional measures to protect, guide, and lead people toward lives that are moral, good, and respectable.

What we ultimately must come to understand is that authority itself is not accidental. Scripture tells us that those in positions of authority have been ordained by God (Romans 13:1). This does not mean every leader is righteous or makes godly decisions, but it does mean that God remains sovereign over who is placed where and for how long. Our responsibility as believers is not blind allegiance to man, but faithful submission to God, trusting that He sees far beyond what we can.

The Word reminds us of this posture of trust: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4). I may walk through devastation, rubble, or uncertainty and still come out unscathed—not because of my strength, but because God is my protector. And even if it is the will of the Father that my life ends in this world, He is still God, still in control, and still faithful. Our hope extends beyond this life and into His eternal presence.

Because of that hope, what we do on this earth matters deeply. Love is the goal. When we love one another, we fulfill the law in its entirety (Romans 13:10). Jesus accomplished everything necessary for our forgiveness when He laid down His life for us. Nothing more needs to be added.

I know the weight of authority personally. I lead within an organization where people look to me for guidance, provision, structure, and care—even for meeting basic needs. I’ve wrestled with imposter syndrome, doubting whether I belonged in the places God positioned me. But my thoughts don’t overrule His calling. God placed me here for a season, and it is my responsibility to steward that season well.

So, whether authority is exercised rightly or wrongly, we can trust this truth: God is carrying out His will. His children are secure. We are His, and no one can pluck us from His hand (John 10:28).