Paying Respect to Parents in God
Honoring parents is the attitude and action of showing respect, love, and gratitude to those who gave birth to and raised us. The word “honor” in the Bible has the profound meaning of “respect, esteem, and regard” – not only because parents are worthy, but also because they hold a position established by God in each person’s life.
Just as people may disagree with a leader’s decisions, but still respect his position – so too must each of us honor our parents, regardless of whether they are perfect or not. The position of parenthood comes from God, and respecting that position is obedience to God’s own command.
Biblical Teachings on Honor
God emphasizes the command to honor parents from the Old Testament to the New Testament. In the Ten Commandments, He says:
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long on the earth.” (Exodus 20:12)
The Apostle Paul reiterates:
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise.”
(Ephesians 6:1-3)
This is the only commandment with a promise—that you will be blessed and live long on earth. On the contrary, the Bible warns that those who disobey their parents will be counted among the wicked and judged on the last day (Romans 1:30; 2 Timothy 3:2).
Jesus and the Wise Men as Examples
Even Jesus, the Son of God, obeyed His physical parents (Luke 2:51), and He was completely obedient to His Heavenly Father (Matthew 26:39). Following His example, every believer is to honor our parents as we would honor God (Hebrews 12:9).
King Solomon, who was given wisdom by God, repeatedly emphasized the importance of honor (Proverbs 1:8; 13:1; 30:17).
Honor Is a Practical Action
More than just words, honor must be demonstrated in actions. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for talking about honor but nullifying God’s commandments by their traditions (Matthew 15:3-9). He taught that honor is something that must be practiced in deeds, not just words or forms.
“A wise son listens to his father’s instruction,
but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.”
(Proverbs 13:1)
Respect for what your parents want, even if it is not stated, is part of being filial.
Honoring Your Parents in Every Stage of Life
As a child, obedience is the basic way to learn filial piety.
As an adult, even though we are no longer living under our parents’ authority, we must still maintain respect and gratitude.
Honor is also the foundation for children to learn to respect authority – from parents, to teachers, to government, and to God.
However, if our parents teach things that go against God’s Word, we must still obey God rather than people (Acts 5:29; Ezekiel 20:18-19).
Conclusion: Honoring God Pleases
Piety is not always easy, but it is what pleases God. It is also the way each person expresses faith, obedience, and lives for the purpose – to glorify the Name of our Heavenly Father.
“Children, obey your parents in everything,
for this pleases the Lord.” (Colossians 3:20)
Prayer
Dear Father,
I pray that You will give my parents peace and contentment in the inheritance You have given them.
Give them heavenly wisdom to raise their children in Your ways.
Give each of us the grace to love, honor, and care for our parents according to Your will in heaven.
May my life always be a glory to Your Holy Name.
In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.