Q: What does it mean to honor your parents?
Published on July 6, 2025
A:
“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.” –Exodus 20:12 (NIV)
The command to honor your parents may seem easy to some, while much more challenging for others who were raised in negative or abusive environments. Are all parents deserving of honor? No. Does God still command it? Yes.
How can you honor someone who has been cruel or who is no longer in relationship with you? You honor your parents in your heart.
Even if you cannot or do not have a relationship with your parents, you can choose not to think or speak ill of them, no matter what has happened. Forgive them for any offenses, and most importantly, pray for them.
If you have a relationship with your parents, you can honor them by respecting their age and life experiences. Don’t mock them or their abilities. Revere and respect them for who they are and what they’ve done for you. Speak with the utmost respect to them at all times. Be available to help them with any needs they may have.
When you choose to honor your parents, God says it will go well with you, and you will live long on the earth!
