Parents – Part 1

Proverbs 23:22 Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old. 

This verse continues the appeal for children to honour, respect, and learn from their parents. The command reaches beyond childhood and applies throughout life. Even when a son or daughter reaches adulthood, the obligation to honour parents remains.

The father is to be heard because of the wisdom, experience, and instruction he has provided. The mother is not to be despised when she grows old, weak, dependent, or less able to contribute as she once did. God places great value on gratitude, honour, and respect toward parents throughout every stage of life.

In a culture that often values people according to their usefulness, this verse reminds us that parents deserve honour because of who they are and what they have invested, not merely because of what they can still do.

An elderly mother may move more slowly, repeat herself, become dependent, require care and patience, or no longer possess the strength she once had. Yet Scripture teaches that age should increase honour rather than diminish it. Parents spend years sacrificing, teaching, providing, protecting, and nurturing their children.

When their strength fades, children have the opportunity to demonstrate gratitude through love, patience, and respect. This reflects God’s own heart toward the weak and vulnerable.

To be continued…