In Ephesians 6:1–2, children are commanded to “obey” and “honor” their parents in Jesus. This directive was originally given in the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20 and is the first and only commandment that comes with a promise.
Children who keep this command are not given just any ordinary promise. Ephesians 6:2–3 says, “Honor your father and mother . . . that it may go well with you and you may live long in the land.” The two rewards mentioned here are remarkable and highly motivating. Put simply, God promises every believing child that obeying his or her parents, or even guardians, will lead to well-being and long life.
A child’s obedience to his parents does not earn his salvation. But his obedience, or lack of it, is revealing of his salvation. In other words, a child’s obedience to Mom and Dad reveals the genuineness and depth of his or her relationship with God. This is also true of everyone who is under the authority of others.
Whether we are children, students, employees, or athletes, we are under someone’s authority. In our submission to God’s authority in our lives, we are to submit to other authorities in our lives. This doesn’t mean that we are passive or even pushovers. What it means is that we glorify God in our obedience to and honor of those in authority over us.
Read
- Why do you think our understanding and respect of authority is important?
- Who is in authority over you, and how do you respond?
- What do you think is revealed by your obedience?
Prayer
Thank God for his authority and for the authority figures he’s put in your life. Ask him to reveal any sin in your life with regard to how you obey.
This devotion is adapted from the Who Do You Think You Are? Study Guides with Daily Devotions resource.
