Aug 30 – Honour Them!

“‘Honour 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 6:2–3)

The Lord clearly declares that when you honour your father and mother, it will go well with you, and you will enjoy a long life on the earth.

The Ten Commandments may be viewed in two sections. The first concerns man’s relationship with God, while the second deals with man’s relationship with his fellow human beings. First, we are called to love the Lord with all our heart and with all our soul. Secondly, we are to love others as we love ourselves.

Just as you hope that your own children will care for you in your old age, so you must lovingly care for and honour your aging parents. A father and mother are among God’s greatest blessings. From the day you were born until you reached a good stage in life, they have made countless sacrifices for you. During your times of sickness, they watched over you, sacrificing their sleep. If there is anyone in this world who deserves honour immediately after God, it is our father and mother.

The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy: “…let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God.” (1 Timothy 5:4)

Honouring your parents means far more than merely sending them a little money every month. In their later years, they long for love, affection, and companionship. It is the responsibility of their children to care about their health, inquire about their needs, and show genuine concern for their well-being.

The Bible says: “Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord.” (Colossians 3:20)

The Lord expresses this command even more clearly in the book of Exodus: “Honour your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20:12)

Again, Scripture declares: “‘Cursed is the one who treats his father or his mother with contempt.’ And all the people shall say, ‘Amen!’” (Deuteronomy 27:16)

The Lord sets before you both blessing and curse, life and death. Choose life. Choose blessing. Dear child of God, when you honour, love, and cherish your father and mother, the Lord will surely bless you with long life and His abundant favour.

Verse for further meditation: “The Lord redeems your life from destruction, crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” (Psalm 103:4–5)