Our Parents
I listened to some excellent teaching this evening by an American pastor called C J Mahaney. At one point during his message, Mr Mahaney took some time to talk about our parents, and our attitudes towards them. I felt so compelled by what he said, and thought it is something that might speak to others. It is sobering:
“For the overwhelming majority, you will one day stand before the lifeless body of your Dad and Mom. They will be laid in a casket. They will no longer be with you. You will stand there. That day is coming; that day is inevitable; that day is inescapable. And on that day you will, and you should, be filled with grief. Grief is godly. Grief is a gift. You’ll know grief. My concern is, that on that day, you will not know regret.”
How sobering it is that we may know regret when it comes to the way we thought of, spoke about, and treated our mothers and fathers. How sad, that this realisation may strike us when it is too late.
God commands us to honour our parents. It is not an option, it is an imperative.
Honour your father and mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you Exodus 20:12
How difficult that must be for those who have been mistreated or disappointed by their parents. How difficult that must be if a rift has developed in the relationship. But if this is our experience, run to God. He promises that He will comfort us – I, even I, am He who comforts you Isaiah 61:12. He promises that He will give us grace – Psalm 84:11.
Let’s make it our goal, by God’s grace, to honour our mothers and fathers; to treat them respectfully, courteously, lovingly, kindly, supportively, affectionately. To keep contact with them, to meet their needs practically where we can; to pray for them and act as Christ would to them.
Mr Mahaney challenges his audience – “express in countless and creative ways your love for [your parents], your appreciation of them … Do your parents know your deep love and respect?”
* Reference: Excerpts from Audio Teaching by Pastor C J Mahaney – Humility; Sovereign Grace Ministries
I liked your message. Perhaps the most devastating thing in society today is the lack of respect for parents and older people in general. If the family structure is destroyed it destroys the basic foundation of society. God instituted the family and the beautiful relationships that can flourish there are a reflection of His love and care. As a parent I know first hand the heartache of having a child show much disrespect and cause so much anguish. I also know the other side of the coin. God bless you and yours, Vince.
Thanks, that is very true.
Hi Vince, thanks for your comments. It is so true that family is foundational to society, and that we learn more about Who God is, and how to grow to be more like Christ, within our family relationships. Thank you for your insights and may God bless you and your family richly.
Hi Laree, Lovely to hear from you! Thanks for your reply
Wow, Birgit, this is awesome!Thank you so much for this timely message. How great is our God, and there is such a blessing attached to His promises.