Luke 2:51 tells us that Jesus was obedient and submissive to His parents as He grew up in Nazareth. Despite the fact that Jesus was the Son of God, He still respected and honored His earthly parents, setting an example for us all to follow. In fact, in Luke 2:52, it's stated that Jesus increased in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and men, in part because of His obedience to His parents.
As Christians, we're called to honor our parents. Ephesians 6:1-3 says, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother...that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land." This commandment comes with a promise that when we honor our parents, we'll experience blessings and long life.
However, honoring our parents isn't always easy. As the writer of Proverbs 29:15 notes, "The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother." Sometimes our parents need to discipline us or correct our behavior, and that can be hard to accept. But it's important to trust that our parents have our best interests at heart and are trying to help us grow into responsible, mature adults.
As we mature, we may also come to realize that some of our past rebelliousness or disobedience was a mistake. Looking back, we may see how our own poor decisions led to negative consequences. But it's never too late to start honoring our parents and seeking their wisdom and guidance.
Ultimately, our obedience and respect for our parents is pleasing to God. Colossians 3:20 says, "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord." By obeying our parents, we show that we're willing to submit to authority, and we demonstrate humility and respect. These are important qualities in the Christian life, and they're essential for developing healthy relationships with others.
So how do you know if you are NOT honoring your mother and your father?
It is NOT going well with you. (Ephesians 6:1-24)
Brings shame to his/her mother. (Proverbs 29:15)
May have sickness. Ephesians says obedient child will live long. (Ephesians 6:1-24)
Disobedient child does not listen to the Father and despises the mother when she is old. (Proverbs 23:22)
In summary, honoring our parents is an important part of the Christian life. It's not always easy, but when we trust God's commandments and promises, we can experience blessings and growth. Let's follow Jesus' example and be obedient and submissive to our parents, seeking their wisdom and guidance as we mature into responsible adults. Examine your heart.
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