Honor Your Family

Ranging from the rebellious phases of teenage years to the short leashes pulled by parents, families can go through plenty of ups and downs. There’s no handbook to being the perfect child or being the perfect parent, but there is a book that gives the best advice for all situations: the Bible. What does the Word say about families? Honor them.

        Our parents- whether biological or not, are the first people we meet when we come into this world. They are in charge of raising you and teaching you how to live in the real world, with correct manners and morals. Due to their constant correction and guidance on our actions, as children we are often inclined to rebel. It is not rare to see kids get angry at their parents, and perhaps even disrespect them. But the Lord warns us against this. In Exodus 20:12, we are told “Honor your father and mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” We should always look at our parents with respect, love them, and honor them. They brought us into this world and are doing their best to lead you onto the right path. Whether it is through their good qualities or learning from the bad ones, appreciate and give thanks to them for shaping you into who you are today!

               We are constantly told to respect our parents, as it says to do so in The Ten Commandments. The verse about respecting children is often missed. In Ephesians 6:4 NIV, it says “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord”. Parents have the authority to counsel their kids. Before you correct your child, make sure you come correct. We should be training and teaching children based on what the Word says, not what the world says. The world will tell you it’s okay to degrade and destroy your children, but the Bible says to lift them up in Jesus’ name.

        At the end of the day, as parents and children, we should always ask ourselves the eye-opening question that is, “What would Jesus do?” Jesus always honored the Father and accepted His counselling. Although Jesus never had biological children, He still played the role of teaching and correcting. Give your parents the same grace Jesus gives you. Provide your children the same comfort that Jesus gives you. This is our first time living in the stage we are, so make it a little easier for your loved ones.