“When I tell you to do so,  place your hands on the top of your head...Do it, do it now!” This is a familiar phrase used by law enforcement officers to show that we are in control of a suspect or situation.  The public recognizes our uniform, our badge and our gun as symbols that make us the authority figure.  Our national and state laws define our authority as well.  We teach our recruits to be ready to take control of any and every situation they encounter.  But where does our authority truly come from and what does it mean to have authority?  Romans 13 reads “Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. (v.2) So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. (v.3) For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you.”  As Police Officer’s, our authority comes from God, therefore we must be careful not to abuse our authority.  Note, in Romans 13: 2, this is not an “anyone we choose”  authority, but only those who rebel against the authority of God.  Also note, the Word says those  who do right by the authorities will be honored.  Let’s be true ambassadors of this double edged message.  Punish those who rebel against the law (God) and honor those who respect and uphold the law.   Always be mindful to treat those citizens who respect our authority as friends of  the good fight.  Likewise, seek and apprehend those who rebel against the authority of our nation, our city and our God given authority as Police Officers.

Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election for sure.  For if you do these things, you will never fall.

(2 Peter 1:10)

This good fight

is a marathon,

they can run away now,

but we’ll get em’ in the long run