Daily Devotional - June 1st, 2026
Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. — Exodus 20:12
"A society that honors parents strengthens its future, because respect learned at home becomes character lived everywhere else." — Alma Ohene-Opare
Commentary:
The commandment to honor your father and mother stands apart in a unique way. It is the first commandment with a promise attached to it. God understood that the family is the training ground for faith, responsibility, and moral character. While parents are imperfect, the principle of honoring them teaches humility, gratitude, and respect for God-ordained authority. Honor does not mean pretending flaws do not exist. It means recognizing the role parents have played in giving life, providing care, and shaping our journey.
Consider the roots of a tree. They are hidden from view, yet they provide stability, nourishment, and strength. A tree that rejects its roots cannot stand for long. In much the same way, individuals who learn gratitude and honor toward those who raised them develop a stronger foundation for life. Communities thrive when people value family relationships, and freedom flourishes when responsibility is taught from one generation to the next. Honor creates continuity between the wisdom of the past and the opportunities of the future.
Even Jesus demonstrated this principle. Though He was the Son of God, He submitted Himself to earthly parents and cared for His mother even during His crucifixion. His example reminds us that honoring parents is not merely a social custom. It is an expression of obedience to God and a reflection of Christlike love. Whether our parents are living or have passed on, whether our relationships are strong or strained, we can choose to show respect, gratitude, forgiveness, and kindness. In doing so, we reflect the character of the Savior who honored both His earthly family and His Heavenly Father.
Scripture:
Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. — Exodus 20:12
Daily Application:
Express gratitude to your father, mother, or a parental figure today. Make a phone call, write a note, share a memory, or offer a sincere word of appreciation that acknowledges their influence in your life.