Growing up, my dad taught me something simple—but powerful. He told me that if a police officer ever tells you to put your hands up, place them on the steering wheel, step out of your car, or follow any instruction, you do it. No arguing. No pushing back. No trying to explain yourself in the heat of the moment. You simply say, “Yes sir,” and you obey.

That advice has stayed with me my entire life, and I’m convinced it has kept me out of serious trouble more than once.

In today’s world, I often hear people say, “That could have been me,” when they talk about tragic encounters with law enforcement. And every time I hear that, I think to myself—no, it wouldn’t have been me. Not because I’m better, smarter, or more righteous, but because I was taught to respect authority and obey in the moment.

There is a time to ask questions. There is a time to file a complaint. There is a time to pursue justice if something was handled incorrectly. But the moment when an officer is giving commands is not that time.

Law enforcement officers have one primary responsibility: to enforce the law and protect the public. They step into unpredictable and often dangerous situations every single day. In those moments, hesitation, resistance, or defiance can escalate things quickly. Obedience brings clarity. Resistance brings chaos.

The Bible speaks clearly about this principle. Scripture teaches that authority exists because God allows it to exist. That doesn’t mean every authority figure is perfect, but it does mean that our posture should be one of humility, respect, and submission whenever possible. Obedience is not weakness—it’s wisdom.

I also recognize that not everyone grew up with a dad who passed down this kind of instruction. Some people were never taught how to handle encounters with authority. So if that’s you, let me say this plainly: when a law enforcement officer tells you to do something, do it. Period.

Put your hands where they can be seen. Follow instructions calmly. Speak respectfully. If something feels wrong, deal with it later—through the proper channels, in the right way, and at the right time.

Pride says, “I’ll prove my point right now.”
Wisdom says, “I’ll live to address this later.”

We live in a culture that often resists authority instinctively. But followers of Christ are called to a different way. A way marked by humility, self-control, and respect for those who serve the public good.

Law enforcement officers are not perfect, but they are human beings doing a difficult job—often under intense pressure. They deserve our respect, our prayers, and our cooperation.

So here’s the encouragement I want to leave you with: don’t mess with police. Listen to them. Obey them. And if there’s an issue, handle it later with wisdom and clarity.

Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is simply say, “Yes sir,” and follow instructions. It might just save your life.

God bless.