6 August | Youth
«“Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.”» Ephesians 6:2-3
I once asked some coworkers what principles they received from their parents that they would like to pass on. I realized that two points stood out: acting honestly and always telling the truth.
In general, children feel the urge to seek their independence. Some do this wisely, others through rebellion. It is natural for children to complain about their parents' control because, when they get older, everyone wants to be their own boss. However, parental discipline is a particularly crucial factor in our maturity. Without it, there is a feeling of abandonment. If children listened to their parents more, they would make fewer mistakes in life.
The divine order is that children must honor their parents. Honor means respecting, treating with dignity, valuing and obeying. This is the duty of children. It is a great privilege for parents to lay firm foundations in the character of their offspring.
Honoring your father and mother means associating with people with a good reputation. The closer friends are, the more they influence our values, moral principles, habits and life goals. Therefore, choose your friendships carefully.
Honoring your father and mother means striving to be a diligent student. Have you ever seen how parents talk with pride about their children's school grades? One of the greatest honors for parents is being able to say that their children are diligent students. Do you want to make your parents proud? Finish your studies and do your best. Your parents have dreams. Do not frustrate them.
Honoring your father and mother means taking time to talk to them. Treating them as friends will do both you and them good. Do not have secrets at home.
As a parent, I can assure you that my children's success is important to me. But I am not worried about whether they will live in a wonderful house, receive a high salary or have prestige in society. What really matters is whether they honor God in everything they do. A son who honors his father and mother fills their hearts with joy (see Prov 10:1). Furthermore, you must not forget the promise of the fifth commandment: live long. This refers to the quality of life on Earth and eternity in Heaven. Make this your life’s goal.