Character of Honor

Honor....what an interesting word!  In thinking about how to present this to you today, I had to put myself across the table from those that need this in their lives.  There are so many people out there that are living a life of dishonor right now because no one has ever shown them honor in their entire lives.  For whatever  reason, as they were learning to tie their shoes or comb their hair or brush their teeth, they were criticized for everything they attempted.   They watched their mom and dad fight and learned that being selfish was the way to get what you wanted.  As they grew into adulthood this lack of honor and respect carried over in their job, at church or in their home. 

Those that are raised with such self-deprecating circumstances become negative, hateful, selfish people unless they change the way they look at things or change the way they think.  First and foremost they must realize that they have self worth, regardless of what has been drummed into their hearts and minds over the years.  God loves them so much and doesn't want them to miss out on a life that is fulfilled and happy.  After they realize they are worthy of honor, they need to carry that over into their own lives and give honor where honor is due.

I think another word that is interchangable with honor is respect.  We are to respect and honor people, having the right attitudes and the right motives.  The Bible tells us that the way to a long life is to honor your parents. Exodus 20:12 says...“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you."  That is pretty powerful!  Showing honor is important to God.  In 1Peter 2:17... "Show proper respect to everyone..."  There is a command to show respect or honor to everyone.  When you give respect or honor to other people, that honor that you have felt was missing your your life will be given to you.

The character of honor should become just a natural response to everyday events in your life.  Show honor to your boss and see what happens.  Show honor to your parents, not just because God commands it, but because you now understand that your life will be better.  They may not have been perfect (maybe even some far from it), but give them honor and I truly believe your attitude will change.

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