MEMORISE: 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
BIBLE READING: 2 Corinthians 12:13-15
13 For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.
14 Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.
15 And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.
MESSAGE:
I know for a fact that some children wish they never had a father at all. This resentment may result from the inability of their fathers to fend for their families and provide their children with love, care, affection, and social security. Despite this, the Bible enjoins children to honour their parents, regardless of their condition.
When my father was mocked and ridiculed for being the poorest man in my village, my siblings and I never disrespected him nor dishonoured him. When my mother eulogised him to make him get my school fees at all costs, I would always wonder how my dad had such great achievements, yet they did not materialise into riches. These memories remained in my heart and motivated me to be better than him. By the grace of God, I cared for him in his old age while I was a lecturer at the university.
My dear child, your greatness lies in the hands of two people – yourself and God. Even if your father is not rich or powerful, honour him as God commands. God will take care of all your needs as long as you remain on His side.
KEY POINT:
Honour your father or the father figure in your life regardless of their status.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
2 Chronicles 4:1-6:11 Romans 7:1-13