VOICE OF TRUTH FOR TODAY:
Honor
“Honor your father and mother.” (Exodus 20:12)
This commandment carries a promise: that when we honor our parents, we will live long and well in the land God has given us.
For much of my life, I thought of this commandment primarily as something children should follow. But one day, during a conversation with my mother, God gently convicted my heart.
My words had not honored her.
They weren’t harsh or cruel, but they lacked the respect she deserved. In that moment, I realized something important—the commandments do not expire with age.
Even as adults, we are called to honor our parents.
This realization also reminded me that my children are watching how I treat others. Whether we realize it or not, we are always modeling behavior for the next generation.
Scripture calls us not only to honor our parents but also to extend grace and forgiveness in our relationships.
During a recent family vacation, I saw this principle come to life. My daughters intentionally arranged for their grandparents to join us, recognizing how precious time with family truly is.
Their desire to honor the older generation deeply touched my heart.
Yet even in loving families, moments of tension can arise. When they do, God reminds us to respond with grace—the same grace our parents often extended to us.
Jesus’ teaching reminds us:
“Honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 19:19)
When we choose honor, forgiveness, and humility, we strengthen not only our families but also the foundation of our communities.
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Excerpt from Voice of Truth Magazine
“Through a Mother’s Eyes” by Diane Gachet Cheveldayoff