As Christians, we’re called to live with integrity and honor in every aspect of our lives – but what exactly does it mean to honor others?
Simply put, honor is about having a strong sense of what’s right and wrong – living a life marked by integrity, honesty, and respect in all of our relationships.
As believers, we turn to God – the ultimate source of honor – to guide us on how we should live. Let’s explore ten key relationships where God calls us to show honor.
1. God
Our number one priority is to honor God in every part of our life. In 1 Samuel 2:30, God says, “Those who honor me I will honor.” This goes beyond just showing up to church on Sunday – it means honoring Him with how we handle our own money, words, and actions.
2. Our Parents
Exodus 20:12 gives us a pretty clear command: “Honor your father and your mother.”
This can be tough sometimes, especially if you have a rocky relationship with your parents. But God calls us to honor them anyway. This means speaking well of them, forgiving past mistakes, and praying for them.
If you have a good relationship with your parents, show them honor by respecting their wisdom and helping them when they need it. God promises blessings and a long life to those who honor their parents!
3. Our Spouse
1 Peter 3:7 encourages husbands to honor their wives, and Ephesians 5:33 tells wives to respect their husbands.
Honor in marriage is all about building each other up, not tearing each other down. This means husbands should make their wives a priority, and wives should show their husbands respect.
4. The Elderly
Leviticus 19:32 tells us to “stand up in the presence of the aged” and to show respect for the elderly.
In a world that often overlooks older people, God calls us to honor them. This can be as simple as being patient, listening to their stories, and helping them with everyday tasks. By treating older people with respect, we acknowledge their life experiences and the wisdom they’ve gained.
5. Our Employers
1 Peter 2:18 says, “Servants, be submissive to your masters, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh.” This means we’re called to honor our boss, even if they’re difficult to work with. While you don’t have to stay in a toxic work environment forever, you should respect your employer while you’re still there.
When you honor your boss, even a bad one, you find favor with God.
6. Our Church Leaders
1 Thessalonians 5:12 reminds us to “honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work.”
Church leaders work hard to guide their congregations – and while they’re not perfect – God still calls us to honor them. This means not gossiping or being overly critical, but instead supporting them, praying for them, and helping out where you can.
7. Our Government Officials
Romans 13:1-2 tells us to respect those in government because their authority comes from God.
We don’t always have to agree with them, but we should still honor their position. Even if they’re ungodly, like the case of David and Saul, God still calls us to show respect and to express our concerns respectfully, and lawfully, and pray for wisdom in their decisions.
8. The Police and Military
Romans 13:7 also says we should give respect and honor to those in authority, including police officers and military personnel. While not everyone in these roles act honorably, that does not mean we should disrespect all who serve.
These individuals put their lives on the line for us, and as Christians, we should honor and appreciate their sacrifice.
9. Your Children
Ephesians 6:4 tells parents not to “provoke your children to anger.” Honoring your kids means valuing them by spending time with them, showing affection, and giving loving discipline.
When parents show honor, kids learn to do the same. Teaching them to respect others, starting with you and God, sets the stage for them to live a life of honor to others.
10. Others
Romans 12:10 says, “honor one another above yourselves.”
Living in honor means putting others first and treating them with love. Jesus taught us to love God with all our heart and love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31). By honoring others, we reflect God’s love and point people to Him.
Conclusion
When we live with honor, we’re reflecting God’s heart and character. Honoring God, our parents, spouse, leaders, and others, opens the door to peace, joy, and blessings in our own lives.