8 Honor Your Father and Mother

Honor Your Father and Mother​

Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.
-- Proverbs 23:22 ESV    

We are unable to control how others treat us. But, the Lord gives clear directives regarding how we are to treat others. He is particularly straightforward with regard to our relationships with our parents.

A child is instructed to obey. “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord” Colossians 3:20 (ESV).

But, as adults, this relationship evolves. Obedience becomes immaterial. But, honoring, seeking advice, respecting, and (as they age) providing for parents become essential components.

The command of the Lord is clear in Exodus 20:12 (ESV), “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you." This directive entails speaking to them, and about them, with love and kindness.

Proverbs 1:8 (ESV) exhorts us to hear our father’s instructions and to not forsake our mothers’ teaching. They possess wisdom and experience that can greatly enhance our lives as we seek their counsel.

And finally, care for them throughout their lives. “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever” (1 Timothy 5:8 ESV). 

Treasure your parents as precious gifts from the Lord, with thanksgiving for the wisdom and guidance that you have gained from them. Pray that the Lord will help you to honor your parents in ways that are pleasing to Him.