Ephesians 6:2 “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise:”
The Apostle Paul gives God’s instructions for the family in the Book of Ephesians. He has given instructions to the husband and the wife in chapter 5 and now he is giving instructions to children. Children are to obey their parents. (Eph. 6:1) With that said the apostle Paul places the fifth commandment of the Ten Commandments (See Exodus 20:12 and Deut. 5:16) before his readers reminding them to “Honor your father and mother.”
For just a moment let us consider the fifth commandment. The fifth commandment begins the section of the commandments that speak to our relationships with others and the first relationship we have is with our parents.
With the 5th commandment, we see a special relationship of children with their father and their mother. We then read of a specific requirement in which children are to honor both their father and their mother. What does it mean to honor? To honor is to first and foremost show respect. It is holding the parents in the highest esteem. It gives them great value, leading the child to listen to the parent’s instructions and learn insights on living life! Honoring a parent brings about a desire to bring delight and not disappoint! (See Proverbs 23:24-25)
A disobedient child brings disappointment.
The verse then reminds us that the commandment comes with a sure reward as God blesses the child that obeys and honors their parent. It is worth noting that Proverbs tells of what may happen to the child who disobeys and dishonors their parent. From Proverbs 30:17 we read (warning – it is not pretty), “The eye that mocks his father, and scorns obedience to his mother, the ravens of the valley will pick it out, and the young eagles will eat it.” God is serious about children honoring their parents!
One final thought. If children are not being taught to be respectful by a parent to be respectful of their parents, how can we expect children to be respectful in public? A lack of respect for parental authority is going to bring about a lack of respect for public authority. While the verse is addressed to children, it is incumbent that parents teach children to obey, to respect, and to honor their parents.
Question: If you are a parent receiving this devotional let me ask when was the last time you taught Ephesians 6:1-2 to your children?
God honors and blesses the home that honors and obeys Him!
Continue Strong Implementing His Instructions For The Family,
And remember to DATE the Word