We are supposed to honor our father. It's pretty plainly stated in the Bible. In fact, I suspect that most folks, whether Christian or just having been exposed to it, are familiar with Ephesians 6:2. This passage is more traditionally aimed at parental responsibilities for teaching children to obey, be respectful and be honorable. Our culture, though, also has a tendency to use it in a context that claims, "Hey kid, the Bible says to honor me." Even agnostic and atheists like to pull that one out of their hats from time-to-time.

Honor Our Father

In the passage, we read;

"Honor your father and mother"--which is the first commandment with a promise... - Ephesians 6:2 NIV

But it makes me wonder a couple things.

1. First, are we to honor even those who practice life in dishonorable ways?
2. And second, what does honoring thy father (and mother) look like?

Seeing that all people are created in the image of God and that all are children of God, they are so loved as His children and therefore fitting of honor... as hard as that may sometimes be to carry out. The second question, then, starts to get more direct hitting.

What does it look like to honor one another?

Is it applause, a trophy, or ribbon? Heck, in 1 Peter, we are told that even gold is equated to perishable trash (1 Peter 1:7 and 1 Peter 1:18), so I don't think our earthly trinkets really fit the bill. Therefore, I tend to think that our actions become a more apt means of honoring. Speaking as a parent, it is very joyful to witness your child carrying out an act of respect or good manners. It is reflective of you, who receives credit for their upbringing. Yes, by teaching obedience, they honor you by living an upright life.

What About Dishonoring Our Father?

But, being the cursed race that we are, our sinful character manifests in ways that dishonor those who are credited with our upbringing. Those same people we are charged with honoring. We instead, make the world see them as inept  and incompetent. We are poor representations of their character. Even worse, we go as far to dishonor God through our own shameful actions. We are Christians, yet we are not perfect. As Christians, the world loves to see us fall. We Christians have work to do in truly walking the talk.

Dishonor Does Not Go Unnoticed

Sure, we can ask forgiveness and apologize, but once the act is complete, putting it back and moving on is no easy task. I was reminded  earlier this week through my own regrettable actions in the midst of a day that went horribly wrong from the moment I got out of bed! But my bad day does not give me a right to dishonor my Father through my actions. It serves as a painful reminder that we are always being shaped by the Potter. When such adjustments happen, they are often swift and unexpected. But rarely are they unnoticed. By others or by our Father, whom we have dishonored. Seek ye forgiveness for all your shameful acts. Seek discernment and sincerely learn from those moments. May you use that wisdom to later honor the King of kings through your actions and life!