I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the word “honor.” Whether used to describe me or someone else, it is a word that I seem to be hearing a lot more lately.
Honor is defined as (and I’m only using some of the definitions, mind you):
Honor:
As a noun
1. Privilege
2. One whose worth brings respect
3. An evidence of symbol of distinction
4. A keen sense of ethical conduct or integrity
As a verb
1. To regard or treat with with admiration and respect
2. To give special recognition to
There are many people that I classify as “honorable people.” These are people who, for one or more of the reasons above, are memorable in many ways to me. I strive every day to live up to Romans 12:10 – “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” I must strive to be honorable – not to be honored. I think that I forget about that at times. We must “desire to live honorably in every way” (Hebrews 13:18).
As I find peace and comfort in discipline and structure – “He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.” While being honored isn’t my goal, the blessing that can be shown to my family by being disciplined in my life – spiritually, physically, emotionally, financially, and more – is a goal I should always strive towards. I find that I sometimes need “corrections” in some of my prime earthly areas – doing my daily devotionals, keeping my family’s finances in check (and watching my spending), emotionally investing in my children (not just physical presence) – and if I don’t “listen” to God when he corrects me or gives me guidance, whether that is in my devotionals, through my wife, or something else, than I am doomed.
If I need it in my earthly life, God will honor me on Earth – otherwise, my goal, job, and mission is to be honorable so others can know Him and hopefully see His example.
