How to Honor Others When It's Hard

Honor is often confused with respect, but there is a difference and knowing that difference is important. To honor someone, by Biblical definitions, is to value them based on their worth. 

In a recent sermon on the 5th Commandment in Exodus 20:12, I discussed the Principle of Honor. I shared some of my insights and some additional scriptures on the importance of honoring others. I believe the Bible is abundantly clear that we are to honor others, regardless of their behavior. Honor is not about agreeing with someone or condoning their actions. Instead, it is more about recognizing their inherent worth as a human being. It’s about recognizing that we are all created in the image of God. When we honor others, we honor God, because we are honoring those who reflect His image. We are honoring those that God loved so much, that He sent Jesus to be a sacrifice for.

And even though we may understand this principle, it can still be difficult to obey it, especially when people have hurt us. So, if you find it difficult to honor others, here are a few practical tips to help you obey God’s instruction to honor.

• Forgive them. Forgiveness does not mean that we forget what was done. It doesn’t mean we condone their actions. But it does mean that we are releasing them (and ourselves) from our anger and bitterness. Forgiveness also helps us acknowledge that they are human beings who, just like us, make mistakes.

• Pray for them. Jesus tells us to pray for everyone, even our enemies (Matthew 5:44-45). When you pray for others, try asking God to bless them and help them grow in their faith. And while you’re at it, ask God to help you speak well of them. Doing this helps us acknowledge that they are valuable to God.

• Be an example for them. Finally, try and be an example to others by living a life that is pleasing to God and shows others what it looks like to love God and love others. This will help us honor God and them. love others.

Honoring others is not always easy, but it is always important. When we honor others, we are honoring God and we are honoring God’s word.

Additional Resources:

Watch: Click here to check out an excerpt from this sermon.

Listen: To listen to the full sermon, titled "The Principle of Honor", seach for Full Faith Church Sermons in your favorite podcast app, or you can click here.