Title: Honour Your Parents

Exodus 20:12  Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

Devotion: Exodus 20:12, which states, “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee,” is one of the Ten Commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai. This commandment holds deep spiritual significance in several ways:

1. Foundation of Social Order: Honoring parents is seen as the cornerstone of a well-ordered society. It establishes respect for authority and lays the groundwork for harmonious relationships within the family and the broader community¹. In many societies parents do not have any authority over the children that is why any attempt to discipline the child is rebuffed and the children call the police. The claim is human rights which some have taken to absurd levels to reassign sex of children, children shooting and killing parents and classmates. All because they cannot or was not subjected to parental discipline. 

2. Reflection of Divine Authority: Parents are often viewed as representatives of God’s authority on earth. By honoring them, individuals acknowledge and respect the divine order established by God².

3. Promise of Longevity: The commandment comes with a promise of long life in the land given by God. This can be interpreted both literally and metaphorically. Literally, it suggests that a society that respects its elders will thrive and endure. Metaphorically, it implies that honoring one’s parents leads to a fulfilling and spiritually enriched life².

4. Spiritual Growth and Discipline: Honoring parents teaches discipline, humility, and gratitude. These virtues are essential for spiritual growth and developing a closer relationship with God³.

5. Universal Principle: This commandment transcends religious boundaries and is recognized in various cultures and ethical systems. But some people have departed from it, they simply do not recognise anybody as superior. That is the reason for increase in criminality in such societies. It underscores the universal importance of family and respect for elders¹.

In essence, Exodus 20:12 emphasizes the importance of family, respect, and the recognition of divine authority, all of which contribute to a stable and spiritually enriched life.

Dear reader do you have any specific thoughts or questions about this passage? Share it with us at gbemide09@gmail.com. Please share this devotional with your contacts. 

- Dr Joel Olanrewaju