Devotion 9/19, My Father’s Heart
Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord.
Leviticus 19:32
God is serious about showing respect for our parents, elderly friends, and relatives. Exodus 20:12 and Ephesians 6:1-4 tell us to honor our father and mother so that it may go well with us. The flip side of that is quite obvious, if you do not obey this basic instruction from God, don’t expect life to go well with you!
In an age where respect is little known and even less practiced, showing honor for those who are older is often overlooked. Yet in this scripture, by the Lord’s own word, showing respect for the elderly ranks right up there with reverencing God. But then we shouldn’t be surprised since God made honoring parents the very first commandment directed at our relationship with others (Exodus 20:12-17). (The first four commandments were directed at our relationship with him — Exodus 20:1-11). Let’s be distinctive in contrast to most of the world: let’s honor, respect, and care for those who are older among us!
So, remember to make time for the elderly in your life, especially your parents, God has His eye on them and He expects us to be there for them when they need us. Spend time with them and show them the respect that God commands us to show them.
Father God, I thank You for my parents and grandparents that taught me about You through their words and actions in this life. Help me to be that kind of father and grandfather to our own precious offspring! Thank You for Jesus and His atoning blood that washes away my sins and gives me eternal life with You. I give You all praise and glory this day, Amen!
Holy and Eternal God, thank you for my parents in the flesh and in the faith. Please give those who have been my spiritual mentors a special blessing. Without their guidance, I’m not sure how I would have matured and become useful to your Kingdom. Please help me as I grow older. I want to mature in my faith and gain the character that will be needed by those you have placed before me to influence. May we, your people, both young and old alike, restore dignity and respect to our relationships before you in our generation. In Jesus’ name, I ask this. Amen.
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