Many people have asked an honest question: Did God not instruct us to obey governing authorities, since He is the One who allows them to exist? Scripture does say this in Epistle to the Romans 13:1. So why, then, has the issue surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine become so divisive for so many?

The answer requires discernment not fear, and love not confusion.

Yes, Scripture teaches respect for authority and order. But the same God who establishes order also grants free will. From the beginning, God has never forced obedience. Adam and Eve were given a choice. Israel was given a choice. Even belief itself is a choice. God does not coerce hearts, He invites them.

God is not the author of confusion. Confusion breeds fear, panic, division and Scripture consistently teaches that these do not come from Him.

When we look at the world today, many people feel unsettled. There is disagreement everywhere; among scientists, media outlets, governments, families, friends, and even within churches. Conversations that once allowed room for compassion now quickly turn into conflict. That alone should cause us to pause.

In the same chapter that speaks about authority, Paul reminds us of something equally important in Epistle to the Romans 13:8: “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another.”

This command applies to everyone; individuals, families, leaders, institutions, and governments alike.

Love means: refusing to dehumanize those who disagree with us, choosing compassion over control, seeking understanding rather than dominance, protecting conscience as well as community.

The central issue should never be fear, coercion, or division. Love must remain the focus.

Scripture teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves; not to harm them, exploit them, shame them, or treat them as enemies. That love does not disappear during crisis; it becomes even more essential.

It is also important to remember that faith does not cancel wisdom, and wisdom does not cancel faith. Trusting God means seeking His character, not reacting to pressure. The more time we spend with Him, the more clearly we recognize His voice and His ways.

As Scripture says in the Book of Psalms 103:7: “He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the people of Israel.”

Knowing what God does is different from knowing who He is. And we come to know His character through relationship by loving Him, trusting Him, and spending time with Him.

When we live from that place, even chaotic seasons begin to carry purpose. Fear loosens its grip. Confusion fades. Division loses power.

So let love guide your words.
Let grace shape your decisions.
Help those in need, even when you gain nothing in return.
Extend compassion, even when it is not reciprocated.

And trust God to govern the world according to His eternal plan; one He set in motion long before any of us were born.

God bless.