As children, we have a common trait that becomes more evident as we grow older: believing that we know everything. How many times have you heard a parent receive the infamous, “I know what I’m doing!” or “I got this, don’t worry about it!” Probably more often than you’d hope. Honestly speaking, I know I’ve been guilty of that habit multiple times. We think that we know everything and we believe we’re ready to be independent, but we aren’t remotely close to being ready.
In Ephesians 6:1 it says, “Children, obey your parents [in the Lord], for this is right.” As the common saying in BLD goes: “You were called by name.” It can also be applied to the relationship of children and parents. There is no such thing in this world as the “perfect parent,” but what matters is that they’re perfect for us. God gave our parents to us because the role they play is exactly what we need, and this is why it’s so important to obey them.
Interestingly enough, the fourth commandment, “Honor your father and mother,” (Ex 20:12) is the only commandment out of the ten that has a promise. The promise says that those who honor their father and mother will live a long life. But even without a superb promise like that, why shouldn’t we obey and honor them? They’re the reason why we’re on this earth. Without them, you wouldn’t even be reading this! Just think about it, the love your parents have for each other is manifested in a physical being: you. And then all that love goes to you! Although there are moments when it’s hard to believe, everything that parents do for a child is done because they love him.
With all that parents do for us, the least we can do for them is listen to what they have to say. It’s one of the easiest ways to show we love and appreciate them for everything they’ve done. It’s a small gesture, but has a big impact.
Interestingly enough, the fourth commandment, “Honor your father and mother,” (Ex 20:12) is the only commandment out of the ten that has a promise. The promise says that those who honor their father and mother will live a long life. But even without a superb promise like that, why shouldn’t we obey and honor them? They’re the reason why we’re on this earth. Without them, you wouldn’t even be reading this! Just think about it, the love your parents have for each other is manifested in a physical being: you. And then all that love goes to you! Although there are moments when it’s hard to believe, everything that parents do for a child is done because they love him.
With all that parents do for us, the least we can do for them is listen to what they have to say. It’s one of the easiest ways to show we love and appreciate them for everything they’ve done. It’s a small gesture, but has a big impact.