“Honor your parents” seemed easy as a kid. Listen. Obey. Show respect. But what about when you’re an adult and your mom still criticizes your parenting choices?
The Fifth Commandment doesn’t expire at 18. Yet most of us struggle with what honoring parents actually means as grown-ups. You’re not alone in this confusion.
After years of studying this topic, I’ve learned that honor goes beyond childhood obedience. It’s about respect and care, not blind submission.
This article gives you clear, practical answers. We’ll cover setting boundaries, dealing with difficult parents, and honoring them while living your own life. You’ll know exactly what biblical honor looks like in real family situations.
These aren’t theories, they’re solutions that work in messy, complicated relationships.
The Meaning of Honoring Parents
The Ten Commandments tell us to honor our parents. To honor means to show respect and give importance to someone. It’s like how you would respect your teacher or coach.
This command comes with a special promise. God says that when we honor our parents, we can live a long life. It’s one of the few commands that includes a reward.
Your parents gave you life. When you show them respect, you’re also showing respect to God. Honoring your parents is a way to thank God for the family He gave you.
Key Ways to Show Honor
There are many simple ways to honor your parents every day. Small actions can mean a lot to them.
Spending Quality Time Together
Call them regularly. Visit when you can. Share meals if possible. Use video calls if you live far away.
Include them in your daily life. Make time for real conversations, not just quick check-ins.
Being a Good Listener
Let them tell their stories again. Give them your full attention when they talk. Listen to their advice about work and hobbies.
Show that their life experiences matter to you. Their wisdom has value, even if you’ve heard it before.
Seeking Their Advice
Ask for their input on big decisions. Show that you value their experience and wisdom. Consider what they say about your career, education, or family choices.
Tell them you’re asking because you respect their thoughts. Remember that Proverbs says their advice is worth hearing.
Expressing Thanks and Appreciation
Focus on the good things they did for you. Thank them for providing, teaching, and supporting you over the years.
Compliment their current wins too. Look past their flaws to find things you can appreciate. Make your gratitude real by saying it out loud or writing it down.
Providing Practical Support
Help with errands and home repairs when they need it. Assist with yard work and household tasks. Offer help with technology problems.
Provide money support if needed. Take them to doctor visits and important appointments.
Praying for Them
Pray for God’s blessing on their lives. Remember, they might face loneliness, health problems, or money troubles.
Let them know you’re praying for them. Ask God to help them through hard times and give them peace.
Practical Tips for Honoring Your Parents
Honor your parents by staying in touch, remembering special days, sharing good news with them first, asking about family stories, giving thoughtful gifts, and being patient and helpful with their needs.
- Send quick text messages to check in and ask how their day is going.
- Remember important dates like birthdays and call or visit to celebrate with them.
- Share good news with them first before telling anyone else about your achievements.
- Ask for their favorite recipes or stories about family traditions they remember.
- Give them photo albums or comfortable items for their home, like soft blankets.
- Schedule regular phone or video calls at times that work well for both of you.
- Put away your phone during visits and give them your complete attention.
- Learn about their health conditions so you can help with doctor visits and medications.
- Stay patient when they repeat stories or forget things, and focus on showing love.
- Set realistic limits for yourself while still being there for them when they need you.
Conclusion
Now you know what it means to honor your parents. It’s about showing respect through daily actions, not perfect behavior. Small gestures like regular check-ins, remembering important dates, and patient communication make the biggest difference.
The biblical foundation reminds us that this isn’t just a suggestion. It’s a command with real benefits for your relationships and well-being.
Start with one simple action this week. Maybe send a text or plan a visit. Your parents will notice, and you’ll feel good about strengthening this important bond.
What small way will you honor your parents today? Share your ideas in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to honor your parents in the Bible?
Honor means to give weight and respect to your parents because of their position in your life. It’s the fifth commandment found in Exodus 20:12, which promises long life to those who follow it.
Do I have to honor parents who were abusive or absent?
You can set healthy boundaries while still showing basic respect for their role as your parents. Honor doesn’t mean accepting harmful behavior or putting yourself in danger.
How can I honor elderly parents with dementia?
Stay patient when they repeat stories or forget things. Focus on emotional connection rather than facts. Create photo boards with names and spend quality time together without expecting perfect conversations.
What are simple daily ways to honor my parents?
Send regular check-in texts, remember important dates, share good news with them first, ask about their lives, and give them your full attention during visits or phone calls.
Does honoring parents mean I have to agree with everything they say?
No, honor means showing respect for their position, not agreeing with every opinion. You can respectfully disagree while still treating them with kindness and consideration.
