Honor: The Master Key That Unlocks God's Blessing
What if I told you there's a master key that can unlock every door of blessing in your life? Not a magic formula or secret technique, but a biblical principle that God himself promises will lead to a long, abundant life. That key is honor.
In Exodus 20:12, God commands us to "honor your father and mother so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you." This isn't just another rule to follow—it's the only commandment in the Ten Commandments that comes with a promise attached. God is essentially saying, "Do this, and watch what I'll do for you."
But here's where many of us get stuck: we confuse honor with respect. Honor is a biblical mandate given freely to everyone—every person God created is worthy of honor simply because they bear His image. Respect, on the other hand, is earned through character, actions, and integrity. You can honor someone without respecting everything they do. This distinction is crucial, especially for those carrying wounds from difficult family relationships.
The Hebrew word for honor, "kavad," literally means weight or heaviness. When we honor someone, we're treating their words, their position, and their influence with appropriate seriousness. Think about the people who have spoken wisdom into your life—parents, mentors, leaders. Did you give their words the weight they deserved, or did you dismiss them like trying to unlock your front door with a car key?
Why We Struggle with Honor
Three main obstacles prevent us from walking in honor. First, we're confused about what honor actually means. Second, we become familiar with the blessings around us—like always having a stocked pantry at mom's house—and take them for granted. Third, we have blockages: entitlement, judgment, disappointment, or past hurts that make honoring certain people feel impossible.
The Two-Way Street
Ephesians 6:4 flips the script, reminding fathers, mothers, and leaders that honor flows both ways. If you're in a position of authority—whether as a parent, boss, or spiritual leader—you're called to live a life worthy of honor. Don't provoke others to anger; lead with godly wisdom and instruction.
Honor as Armor
Here's the game-changer: honor isn't just a key to blessing; it's also your armor in spiritual warfare. Right after commanding us to honor our parents, Ephesians 6 tells us to put on the full armor of God. When we dishonor others through gossip, cancel culture, or harsh words, we compromise our spiritual protection. But when we choose honor—even when it's difficult—we stand protected against the enemy's schemes.
Your Action Step
This week, assess yourself on a scale from 0 to 10: How easy is it for you to show honor? Then take one practical step. Say thank you to someone who deserves it. Set a healthy boundary. Stop participating in dishonoring conversations. Practice gratitude—it physically changes something inside you.
Honor isn't weakness; it's your warfare. And God promises that when you walk in honor, He will unleash blessing not just in your life, but in the lives of everyone around you.