Introduction: Honor is a timeless principle that transcends cultures and generations. The Bible emphasizes the importance of honoring parents, not only as an act of respect but as a pathway to blessings and long life. In Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, and Ephesians 6:2-3, God gives a direct command with a promise attached: honor your father and mother so that your days may be long and that things may go well with you. In this sermon, we will explore the depth of these scriptures, share real-life experiences, and unpack the significance of this commandment in our lives today.

Scriptural Basis:

Exodus 20:12 (NIV): “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”

Deuteronomy 5:16 (NIV): “Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”

Ephesians 6:2-3 (NIV): “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—”so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

1. The Command of Honor: A Universal Principle The command to honor our parents is repeated throughout the Bible, showing its importance in God’s eyes. In Exodus 20:12 and Deuteronomy 5:16, God lays down this command not just as a rule but as a key to receiving His blessings. Ephesians 6:2-3 reaffirms this in the New Testament, showing that the principle is timeless.

Real-Life Experience:
Consider the story of a young man who consistently disregarded his parents’ advice. He was reckless and rebellious, which led him to make poor decisions. However, after an accident that nearly took his life, he realized the value of his parents’ wisdom. As he began to honor them, his life took a turn for the better. He found stability, peace, and success, living in alignment with God’s command.

2. Honor Opens Doors to God’s Blessings The scriptures are clear: honoring your parents brings both longevity and prosperity. This is not just about living longer in terms of years but having a fulfilled life. When we honor our parents, we align ourselves with God’s order, positioning ourselves to receive divine favor.

Real-Life Experience:
In a personal testimony, a woman shared how her relationship with her parents was estranged for many years. She decided to reconcile with them and began caring for them in their old age. After doing so, her financial situation miraculously improved, and she experienced unprecedented favor in her career. This turnaround came after she started living out the commandment to honor her parents.

3. Honor is Not Conditional The Bible does not say, “Honor your parents only if they are perfect.” Honor is a commandment irrespective of our parents’ actions or character. It’s about recognizing the authority God placed in them and honoring that.

Real-Life Experience:
A man once shared how he struggled with his father, who was absent most of his life. Despite the pain, he chose to forgive and honor his father in small ways. Over time, this act of honor healed their relationship and brought emotional healing to his own life. It was a difficult journey, but God honored his obedience.

4. The Role of Parents in the Honor Equation While children are commanded to honor their parents, parents also have a responsibility. Ephesians 6:4 continues by saying, “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” Parents must strive to live in a way that makes it easier for their children to honor them.

Conclusion: The principle of honoring our parents is a key to unlocking God’s blessings, both in the natural and spiritual realms. Whether we are children honoring our parents or parents raising our children in the fear of God, the command to honor is tied to a promise that our lives will be blessed and prolonged. Let us strive to live in obedience to God’s Word, knowing that in honoring our parents, we are honoring God Himself.

Personal Application: Reflect on your relationship with your parents or those in authority over you. Are there areas where you need to show more honor? Take time to ask God for grace to live out this commandment, and watch how He will pour out His blessings in your life.

*For more inspirational lecture series by the author, kindly visit www.spdsfoundation.org.*

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*©️ James Ola Emiola-Dakobiri FIIM,*
*Founder and Chairman,*
*Suicide Prevention and Depression Support Foundation*
✍🏽 james@spdsfoundation.org
☎️ 773-344-6313.