The Government Will Be Upon His Shoulder
Monday, September 23, 2024 by Melissa McLaughlin

“That’s not how we play the game! You broke the rules,” he chided.

“Who made you boss?” she glared back.

As an elementary teacher, I witnessed countless arguments on the playground. Many of these clashes resulted from one child striving to rule over another or someone breaking an agreed-upon boundary.

All too often, adult behavior mirrors the children’s schoolyard. The struggle to submit to someone else’s rules or governance is an age-old dilemma.

Beginning in Genesis, the first man and woman resisted God’s rule. The result? Mankind fell. Since that day, humanity has continued rebelling against God’s governing standards.

Why do we rebel against God?

We don’t like to obey anyone but ourselves. We desire to tell God—and everyone else—what to do. In short, we want to be God.

There’s one problem. Only God is God.

Living Under God’s Government

God is the Creator of all things. Every molecule in the universe holds its position at His command. Like it or not, we exist in God’s kingdom, under God’s rule. And He is the ultimate governing power.

Given the reality that God is in charge, how do we respond to His government?

How do we live in response to a God who is omnipotent and perfect?

Sadly, with one bite of sin’s glistening fruit, we align ourselves with Adam and Eve defying God and beating our tiny fists in the air.

How does God respond to our defiance?

Incredibly, God has not given up on us. He sent Jesus to absorb the penalty for humanity’s sin against a holy God. With bleeding brow, beaten back, nail-ripped hands and feet, and broken heart, Jesus stood in our place.

That is how God responded to our rebellion. Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me.

Gratefully, the story doesn’t end there. For Jesus arose from the grave in all victory. He rules and reigns forever!

As we scrutinize earthly leaders and their fallen nature, let us remember, that God has a different kingdom with a certain, destined, sinless King. As believers, our citizenship is in heaven and we look toward the city that is to come.

Until that day, may we remember the earthly presidents, governors, and leaders will not save us.

The government will be upon His shoulder.

Early in Jesus’ ministry, He spoke of God’s kingdom.

From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17 ESV).

We understand Jesus died for our sins and promised believers a place in heaven. However, Jesus also announced His kingdom. His government. His LORDSHIP.

Jesus demonstrated His Kingly power by casting out demons, healing the sick, forgiving sins, and raising the dead. In those moments, humanity glimpsed heaven’s glory. All that marred His kingdom’s perfection was removed and His holy government illuminated this sin-shadowed world.

If we squint through the cracked lens of our earthly vision, we can see Jesus even now through His Word and Spirit. That glorious government will be upon His shoulder.

We have a King. We live under His government, in His kingdom.

May we surrender to Christ’s authority over our lives. May we pray earnestly for others to receive Him as Savior and LORD. For Jesus is King. And His government is good.

What helps you remember the government is upon HIS shoulder?

For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end,
Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom,
To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. ~Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV)

Spiritual Life

Join author and teacher, Melissa McLaughlin, and grow in Truthful Grace as we ignite the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit in our hearts, minds, prayers and lives. Grow in Christ, grow in the knowledge of His Word, the Bible, grow the passion in your prayers.

You are God's Masterpiece
Melissa McLaughlin
3/23/2026

Let the Wind of God's Spirit Sweep Over You
Melissa McLaughlin
2/23/2026

How Does the Light of Christ Change Your Heart?
Melissa McLaughlin
2/9/2026

3 Ways to Set Your Affections on Things Above
Melissa McLaughlin
1/26/2026

3 Ways to Shine Christ's Light in the New Year
Melissa McLaughlin
1/12/2026

Half a Walk is Better Than No Walk
Melissa McLaughlin
11/10/2025

You May Be the One
Melissa McLaughlin
11/3/2025

How is God's Spirit Like the Wind?
Melissa McLaughlin
9/15/2025

Are You Stretching for More of God?
Melissa McLaughlin
9/8/2025

Turn On the Light of Christ
Melissa McLaughlin
9/1/2025

Where is God Planting You?
Melissa A. McLaughlin
8/20/2025

Are You Seeking the City That is to Come?
Melissa McLaughlin
7/23/2025