Yesterday we talked about obedience. Today we are going to talk about honor. In today’s verse we learn that not only is “honor your father and mother” a commandment but it is also the first commandment with a promise. Let’s talk first about what it means to honor your parents. Honor means to regard with great respect. We don’t just show respect to our parents by how we treat them but with the way we live our lives. We have to teach our kids how to do this. Like I said yesterday, we do this through modeling it in our own personal life and through parenting according to God’s Word.
The second half of that scripture says, “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” This commandment and promise is rooted in God’s love for us. This “rule” isn’t in place so that God can control us or micromanage us but because he knows what’s best for us. I’ve seen this passage played out in my own life. The destruction and heartache that comes from not living a life that brings honor versus one that does.
Some of us came from broken homes where it feels like the parents don’t deserve an ounce of respect. If that’s you, I’m really sorry. Thankfully I know a God who deserves more honor and respect than we could ever give Him in a lifetime. Choose today to live a life that’s worthy of His honor.