Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Ephesians 6:1-3 ESV
Have you ever disobeyed your parents’ orders, only to end up obeying them? Or, you say yes, but you didn’t do what they ordered? Whichever of these situations has happened in your life, Jesus said something about it. “What do you think of this? There was a man who had two sons. He approached the elder and said, ‘Son, now go to the vineyard and work there.’ ‘I don’t want to,’ he replied, but he changed his mind and worked in the vineyard. The father also approached the second and said the same thing. And he answered, ‘Yes,’ but did not go to the vineyard. Which of the two obeyed his father’s will? ‘The elder,’ they answered” (Matthew 21:28-31).
The change in the firstborn’s mind was a sign of his repentance for his wrong behavior, so he did what his parents told him to do. If his parents were pleased, so was Jesus, because respecting and obeying parents is God’s will. In the Old Testament, it is the fifth of the ten commandments (Exodus 20:12). In the New Testament, Apostle Paul emphasized this in Ephesians 6:1-3. Respecting and obeying parents brings comfort and long life.
One way we can show our respect and love to our parents is by obeying their commands. Let’s just think that their commands are also for our good. For example, when we are told to come home early from school, they are concerned. They don’t want anything bad to happen to us at this time of night. When we are told to study hard, it is also for our good future.
If you find it difficult to obey your parents, ask the Lord to give you an obedient heart. This will happen if you accept Jesus into your life as Savior and Lord. He will also move you to love, respect, and obey your parents from the bottom of your heart even if you are not ordered.
LET’S PRAY:
My Father in heaven, I regret the times I disobeyed my parents, as well as all my wrongdoings that hurt You and them so much. From this day forward, I promise to be an obedient child. But I can’t do it alone. I need, Lord, Your guidance. You Lord Jesus will rule my life from now on. Thank you, Lord, for your love. Amen.
APPLICATION:
Think back to the times you disobeyed your parents’ orders and advice. Apologize to them. By God’s grace, you will be loving and obedient to them. Expect the blessing God promised in Ephesians 6:1-3.
RELATED THINK OVER:
