For many children, youth or adults, life is good, and they are treated well by their parents. However, for many…not so fortunate? Many children at home and those who have grown up are being abused by parents differently. Some are verbally abused, others emotionally harmed, and yet others are physically mistreated and disrespected. For these unfortunate souls, how are we to understand our next Wonderfully Weird Command, Honor Your Parents.
The Bible is clear; it says, 'Honor your father and mother and 'Anyone who curses their father and mother is to be put to death ~ Matthew 15:4 (NIV). These words are easy to understand in the ideal situation; however, when the reality is terrible, what are we to make of this teaching? Please know that this command has an underlying requirement. Although we must always honor our parents, we must honor and love God more. This is primary, not only in a child-parent relationship but in all life's roles. All must come under our relationship with God. If this is not the case, we are hurting God's plan. Nevertheless, how are we to honor parents when things are so upside down?
As a Christian child, parent, and pastor who understands, I offer three things to honor your parents in the most challenging situations. First, Pray for them. No matter the relationship, you can honor your parents by praying for them. Daily, lift up your words as Christ did in the most challenging situation, the cross, and often pray, "Forgive them for they know not what they do (Luke 23:34)." Doing so will free you from bitterness to allow yourself to grow in your walk with Christ.
The second thing I offer is to honor your parents by dismissing them for their shortcomings. All humans have flaws, and it's easy to fall victim to their sins. The solution is to do all you can to focus on their strengths, even if that strength is as tiny as a mustard seed. Forgiving parents for their sins release them of guilt and will help you resolve the hurt and pain of being mistreated; this is called grace (Mark 11:25).
Finally, you can honor your parents by honoring them in your mind. When a negative thought comes up, make a decision to reject it and replace it with a good memory, no matter how hard it may seem. Doing so will keep your mental health well, which honors God by thinking like Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Our command today calls us to honor our father and mother unconditionally. Doing so will allow you to live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you. It only takes a few things to do, even when it appears impossible. Today, I encourage all to grow by obeying this simple command, "Honor Your Parents," to show honor for God's control in your life and to put to rest the disrespect for mom and dad where you can genuinely say, "It is well with my soul."
With respect,