Tag: Honor

March 5, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Danger of Dishonoring Parents

Opening Verse

“Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.” – Proverbs 20:20 (KJV)

Introduction

Honoring our parents is not just a social expectation; it is a divine command. Yet, in today’s world, rebellion against authority, including parents, is often encouraged. Many believe they have the right to dishonor or disrespect their parents because of disagreements or past wounds. However, God’s Word warns that dishonoring parents leads to severe consequences, both spiritually and physically.

Devotional Story

There was a young man who grew up feeling bitter towards his parents. He often blamed them for his struggles and hardships. As he became older, his resentment turned into open defiance—he spoke harshly to them, ignored their counsel, and even ridiculed their faith.

One day, in a fit of rage, he yelled at his mother, calling her names and cursing her. That night, as he lay in bed, he felt an unshakable darkness settle over him. He lost his peace, and his once bright future began to crumble. Opportunities slipped away, friendships faded, and he found himself lost in deep loneliness.

Desperate, he sought help from a wise pastor, who pointed him to Proverbs 20:20. The young man was struck with conviction. He fell to his knees and repented before God. He reached out to his parents, asking for forgiveness, and slowly, the darkness in his life began to lift. Joy returned, doors opened, and the favor of God shined upon him once more.

What This Means

Cursing or dishonoring our parents leads to spiritual darkness. It affects not only our relationship with them but also our relationship with God. Parents, whether perfect or flawed, are placed in our lives by God’s design. When we honor them, we honor Him. Dishonor brings destruction, but repentance and restoration bring blessings.

Think About This

  • Have you spoken or acted in ways that dishonor your parents?
  • Do you hold resentment against them that needs to be released?
  • How can you show honor and gratitude to them today?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I thank You for my parents, even in their imperfections. Forgive me for any words or actions that have dishonored them. Soften my heart to show them love and respect as You command. Help me to walk in the light of Your blessings by honoring those You have placed in authority over me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Honour thy father and thy mother; that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.” – Exodus 20:12 (KJV)

February 17, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Reward of Humility and Fear of the Lord

Opening Verse

“By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life.”
— Proverbs 22:4 (KJV)

Introduction

The world tells us that success comes from ambition, self-promotion, and power. But God’s Word teaches the opposite. True blessings—riches, honor, and life—come not from pride, but from humility and a deep reverence for the Lord. Many seek after wealth but neglect the very things that bring lasting joy and fulfillment. Are you living with humility before God, or are you chasing after temporary rewards?

Devotional Story

A wealthy businessman stood at the peak of his career. He had everything—money, status, power. Yet, in the quiet of his soul, he felt empty. Despite all his success, peace eluded him.

One evening, he met an old friend who had once struggled in life but now radiated joy and contentment. “What changed?” the businessman asked.

The friend smiled and said, “I stopped chasing the world and started fearing the Lord. I humbled myself and gave my life to Him. That’s when I truly found riches, honor, and life.”

The businessman scoffed at first but couldn’t shake the words. He had spent his life seeking earthly riches but had no peace. That night, he knelt in prayer, humbling himself before God. For the first time, he felt a peace that money could never buy.

What This Means

God’s blessings don’t come through pride, self-reliance, or worldly ambition. They come through a heart surrendered to Him in humility and reverence. When we acknowledge that all we have comes from Him and live to please Him rather than the world, He grants us true riches—peace, contentment, and eternal rewards.

Think About This

  • Are you chasing after the world’s definition of success or God’s?
  • Do you fear the Lord and acknowledge Him in all your ways?
  • Are you willing to humble yourself before Him and trust in His provision?

Prayer

Lord, I humble myself before You today. Teach me to fear You and walk in Your ways. Let me not chase after temporary riches but seek the true blessings that come from knowing You. Grant me a heart that honors You in all things. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.”
— James 4:10 (KJV)

November 11, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Honoring Those Who Serve

Opening Verse

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”
John 15:13 (KJV)

Introduction

Veterans Day is a time to remember and honor those who have served in the military, defending our freedom and safety. Many veterans have sacrificed comfort, safety, and even their lives to protect others. As we honor them, we reflect on the ultimate example of sacrifice and love shown by Jesus Christ.

Devotional Story

On a bright November morning, a group of veterans gathered at a small town ceremony. As they stood in respectful silence, the flag was raised, and the national anthem played. Each one had a story—years spent away from family, nights of uncertainty, and moments of fear. But they also remembered camaraderie, strength, and purpose.

One veteran, a man named Tom, thought of his closest friend from his time in the service. They had supported each other through challenging days, pushing each other to be brave, and praying together for their families. Tom recalled his friend’s favorite verse, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” His friend lived by those words, showing a love for others that reflected the heart of Christ.

As Tom looked around at his fellow veterans, he realized how much they reflected the spirit of this verse. Each one of them had put others first, willing to sacrifice for something greater than themselves. He felt gratitude, not only for his comrades but for Jesus, who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom from sin.

What This Means

Veterans teach us about courage, sacrifice, and love. Their service reminds us of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, where He gave His life for us. We can honor their legacy by showing love and selflessness in our daily lives, remembering that Jesus set the ultimate example of laying down His life for His friends.

Think About This

How can you honor the sacrifices of veterans today? Consider ways to show gratitude, not only in words but in action. Remember, each act of love and kindness reflects the love of Christ.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the bravery and sacrifices of our veterans. Bless those who have served and continue to serve our country. Help us to honor their example of selflessness and courage, and let us be reminded of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for us. In His name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee.”
Numbers 6:24-25 (KJV)