Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother
May 1 2021
When I was a youth, I thought my parents set boundaries that were too strict. I felt caged, imprisoned and handcuffed. I was not allowed the same freedom as my friends. Hence I rebelled and it created an undesirable parent-child relationship.
My rebellious nature didn’t stop with them. It spilled over to almost every individual with any authority who tried to restrict me. That included my teachers, neighbors and strangers. I developed a reputation for having a smart mouth because I talked back to adults and could be downright disrespectful.
Obviously I was totally out of line and have no idea why I responded the way I did. All my parents were doing was trying to guide and protect me, but I could not see or understand it at the time. They were great parents who believed in nurturing, protecting, guiding and caring for us to the best of their ability.
As I read and meditate on Proverbs 1:8-9, I understand that children are to submit to the authority of their parents. You can’t receive the instructions or teachings of your parents unless submission takes place. When that occurs, one can accept discipline and correction from those who love and care for you.
Before my parents departed for heaven, I got a chance to apologize for my foolish actions as a youth. I had the opportunity to tell and show them how much I appreciated everything they had ever done for me. I wrote them a letter in 1990, the year I gave my life to the Lord and several years prior to their demise. In 2009, when my mother passed, I found that letter in a drawer. She held on to it for almost 20 years. I wept.
I am sure when they read the letter it brought a smile to their faces as they reflected on the earlier years of my childhood. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt, they were proud of the way my life turned out. I wish I could have had more time with them on this earth. There was so much I wanted to do for them, but time ran out.
Let me encourage you to always honor your mother and your father. Don’t reject the instructions of your father or the teachings of your mother for they will be an ornament of grace unto your head and chains about your neck. Their wisdom will help protect and guide you through the rough terrains of life. This applies to you that are young as well as those of you who are older. God gave you the parents you have so love them while you can and always humble yourselves to the submission of their authority. God will bless you with long life for your reverence and obedience.