How can we cultivate respect for parents in today's society? A sobering diagnosis — Proverbs 30:11 “ There is a generation that curses its father and does not bless its mother.” This single verse exposes a heart-level problem, not just a social trend. Scripture states it plainly and literally: when children curse instead of bless, society is in spiritual decay. Why honoring parents is non-negotiable • Fifth Commandment: “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20:12) • Reaffirmed for the church: “Honor your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise).” (Ephesians 6:2) • God ties family order to national well-being: “Honor your father and your mother…that it may go well with you.” (Deuteronomy 5:16) When Scripture repeats a command across Testaments, the Lord is underscoring its lasting importance. Roots of today’s disrespect • Erosion of biblical authority—when God’s Word is sidelined, parental authority soon follows. • Entertainment that normalizes mocking parents. • Busyness—lack of unhurried time breeds shallow relationships. • Self-esteem culture—kids taught to elevate self over elders. • Fragmented families—divorce or absentee parents make honoring harder, yet not optional. Cultivating respect inside the home • Speak blessing, not cursing: “Bless and do not curse.” (Romans 12:14) • Practice quick obedience: “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.” (Colossians 3:20) • Demonstrate tangible care: “If a widow has children or grandchildren, they should learn to practice godliness…repaying their parents.” (1 Timothy 5:4) • Listen intentionally: “Listen to your father…do not despise your mother when she is old.” (Proverbs 23:22) • Model repentance—parents who apologize teach children to honor humility. Church family as a training ground • Preach and teach honor regularly, not merely on Mother’s or Father’s Day. • Pair younger believers with seasoned saints (Titus 2:3-6) to normalize respect across generations. • Celebrate multigenerational worship—children see parents honor God, and the cycle continues. • Provide practical support for aging parents, showing the congregation how honor looks in action. Influencing the wider culture • Speak respectfully about parents in public and online; refuse humor that belittles them. • Support policies that protect and strengthen the family unit. • Encourage schools and media outlets to showcase stories of faithful, honored parents. • Mentor fatherless and motherless youth, demonstrating the goodness of parental authority. • Vote with your wallet—patronize entertainment that upholds, not mocks, parental roles. Living in the promised blessing God attaches a promise to honoring parents: longevity and well-being. Obedience brings personal peace, family stability, and societal health. By taking Proverbs 30:11 seriously and cultivating respect in every sphere—home, church, and culture—we align with God’s design and receive His very real, literal blessings. |
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