The Protective Power of Submissiveness

Submissiveness is one of the key elements for the smooth operation of an organization. It is when directives from the leadership are smoothly carried out. Without submissiveness, there is chaos and disorganization as instructions are not implemented under proper protocol. Each one goes to his or her own direction pursuing his or her own agenda. There is a break in the chain of command from top to bottom. When this happens, it gradually weakens the foundational elements of a strong corporate entity.

Through submissiveness, the principle of accountability is nurtured fulfilling the old maxim that says, “In the multitude of counselors, there is safety”. Coordination and consultation with one another become the norm and reporting to the leadership is developed. The network of people within the system is strengthened as the personnel move consistent to the well-defined vision and office policies. They play their respective roles without being disintegrated from the overall structure. Their varied talents, skills, and abilities do not contribute separation from the established linkage.

Submissiveness, however, has boundary or limitation. It does not include control and manipulation to the extent that even unlawful orders are obeyed and accordingly followed without question or opposition. It is not a license to silence the voice of the subordinates. It is not a privilege to tame the will of the righteous. It must not be used as an instrument for abuse by those in authority or as an avenue to suppress and oppress others. The practice of “obey first before you ask” under the guise of submissiveness should not be countenanced in the face of patent illegal or unlawful order.

Submissiveness can be learned well by putting ourselves under subjection of the Almighty God. If we practice obedience to the will of God in our lives, we can easily exercise submissiveness. It directs our actions and decisions toward the right path without having mastery of all legal provisions. Our pure conscience shall serve as our guide for upright living. When we are trained to submit to divine authority, we become trained to submit to human authorities. As others say, “Human authorities are from God and they are His servants”.

The benefits of submissiveness are protection and authority. One who submits put himself or herself under covering. If we put ourselves under the covering of God, we are protected by Him. In the same manner, when we submit to the authority of God, we act under His authority and not on our own authority. Consequently, all the enemies of God will flee from us. As it is written, “Submit yourself to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you”. We cannot overcome temptation if we are not subservient to divine authority. Only when we are representing the authority of God and we are representative of God that ungodly influences are done away with.

Submissiveness should not therefore be taken as a weakness but rather as a condition of the heart and a skill. It is best exemplified when a leader-follower relationship is tested by adverse circumstances where we master submission even when it is inconvenient.  (NAS, CRFV)