How to Honor Father and Mother?
Opening Scripture:
"Honor your father and mother," which is the first commandment with promise: "that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth." (Ephesians 6:1-3)
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Introduction:
Honoring our parents is not just a suggestion; it is a command from God with a promise of blessings. It is a reflection of our relationship with God and a testimony of our faith. But how do we truly honor our father and mother? Let us explore five biblical ways to fulfill this commandment.
I. Honor Them by Listening to Them
Proverbs 1:8-9 instructs us to heed the instruction of our father and not forsake the law of our mother. Similarly, Proverbs 4:1-4 and Proverbs 23:22 emphasize the importance of listening to the wisdom and guidance of our parents. When we listen to them with respect, we honor them and acknowledge their God-given role in our lives.
II. Honor Them by the Way We Talk
Our words have power, and the way we speak to and about our parents matters. Proverbs 20:20 warns against cursing one’s father or mother, showing the severity of disrespectful speech. The New Testament reinforces this in Ephesians 4:25, 29 and Ephesians 5:4, encouraging us to speak truthfully and respectfully. Let us ensure our words reflect love and honor towards our parents.
III. Honor Them by the Way We Act
Our actions demonstrate the sincerity of our honor. Proverbs 15:20 teaches that a wise son makes his father glad, while a foolish man despises his mother. Proverbs 17:25 and 19:13 highlight how disobedience brings grief to parents. The Bible gives examples, such as Eli’s sons in 1 Samuel 2:22-24, who dishonored their father, and Samuel’s sons in 1 Samuel 8:1-5, whose actions led Israel to seek a king. Let us be mindful that our behavior reflects honor to our parents.
IV. Honor Them by Respecting Their Wishes
Respecting our parents' guidance, especially when it aligns with God's will, is a way to honor them. Daniel 1:8 illustrates how Daniel upheld the values he was taught, even in a foreign land. When we make choices that align with biblical values, we not only honor God but also show respect to our parents.
V. Honor Them by Caring for Them
As our parents age, our responsibility to care for them increases. 1 Timothy 5:4 and 1 Timothy 5:8 emphasize that providing for our parents is an expression of godliness and faith. Jesus Himself, while on the cross, ensured His mother was cared for (John 19:26-27). Let us not neglect this duty but embrace it as an act of love and obedience to God.
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Conclusion:
Honoring our father and mother is more than words; it is a way of life. We honor them by listening, speaking respectfully, acting rightly, respecting their guidance, and caring for them. In doing so, we not only fulfill God’s command but also receive His promised blessings. Let us commit to honoring our parents in all we do, bringing glory to God and joy to our families. Amen.
