The Bible tells us we should honor our father and mother. We honor our parents when we speak well of them, seek their wisdom, support them, forgive them, esteem them publicly and privately. Here are some additional compelling reasons we should honor them. A healthy society will not last unless children respect their parents. Studies show children who grow up without caring parents tend to commit more crime, mistreat women, and act out in society in greater numbers than those with parents. It is in the home that children begin to understand authority. As they grow older, they transfer this respect for authority to other leaders. Parents help to shape our attitude toward God. When there is no authority in the home, the state has to play a greater role in controlling behavior and this leads to dictatorship. Furthermore, when children see their parents honor their own parents, this becomes a model for them. They, in turn, will honor you–their parents. No wonder God said “Honor your father and mother” God knew the profound benefits this would bring not only to the children, but to the parents, and to society as a whole.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
