What promises are associated with honoring parents in Deuteronomy 5:16? Scripture Text “Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that your days may be long and that it may go well with you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.” (Deuteronomy 5:16) The Promises Named • Long life—“so that your days may be long” • Well-being—“that it may go well with you” • Secure inheritance—“in the land that the LORD your God is giving you” What Each Promise Means • Longevity: more than extra years; it is quality time marked by God’s favor (cf. Proverbs 3:1-2). • Well-being: wholeness, peace, and success in daily affairs (cf. Deuteronomy 6:2-3). • Secure inheritance: enjoying the full blessings of the land God allotted—stability, provision, and continued occupation. New Testament Confirmation • Ephesians 6:2-3: “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with a promise, “so that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.” The Holy Spirit carries the same twin promise—well-being and longevity—into the church age. Additional Supporting Passages • Exodus 20:12 repeats the command with identical promises. • Deuteronomy 4:40 links obedience to long life in the land. • Proverbs 1:8-9 portrays honor to parents as a crown of grace and a garland of blessing. How the Promises Work • Honor cultivates humility and teachability, traits God blesses (James 4:6). • Respect for parental authority trains the heart to revere God’s ultimate authority, inviting His protection. • Strong families build strong communities; societal stability promotes personal longevity and prosperity. Living It Out Today • Speak respectfully to and about your parents, regardless of age. • Provide practical help—time, resources, care—as they need it. • Preserve family stories of God’s faithfulness, passing them to the next generation. • Forgive past hurts; reconciliation honors God and unlocks blessing (Colossians 3:13). • Teach children the importance of honoring grandparents and parents, embedding the promise in future generations. By embracing and practicing honor, believers position themselves to experience the very blessings God attached to this command—long life, well-being, and a secure place under His gracious rule. |
    |