Honour...

Honour... 

“They completed the division of the land and set its boundaries as an inheritance. Then the people of Israel gave an inheritance to Joshua son of Nun. In obedience to the word of the LORD, they gave him the city he had requested—Timnath Serah in the hill country of Ephraim. Joshua rebuilt the city and settled there.” (Joshua 19:49–50)

Honour, like respect, is earned—not demanded. Joshua, together with the high priest and the leaders of Israel, faithfully carried out God’s assignment: conquering the land and fairly dividing it among the tribes. When the work was done, the people expressed their gratitude by honouring Joshua with a city of his choice. This act was not forced; it flowed naturally from appreciation for faithful leadership and obedience to God.

Scripture consistently teaches the value God places on honour. Through the prophet Malachi, God rebuked His people for failing to honour Him, reminding them that honour begins with how we treat authority—especially parents and spiritual leaders. A son honours his father, and a servant his master; if this is expected in human relationships, how much more should God be honoured. True honour, God explains, is revealed by bringing Him our best in worship, service, and obedience.

The Apostle Paul reinforces this principle by extending honour beyond parents to leaders within the community of faith. He teaches that those who lead well, particularly those who labour in teaching and preaching, deserve “double honour.” Honour, therefore, is not mere words—it includes respect, appreciation, and practical support.

Let honour become a deliberate practice in our lives. Begin at home by honouring your parents, then extend it to leaders God has placed over you. In doing so, you align yourself with God’s order and invite His blessing.

Reflection
Honour reflects our understanding of authority and gratitude. When we honour those who serve faithfully, we acknowledge God’s work through them. Dishonour hardens the heart, but honour cultivates humility, unity, and blessing. Ask yourself: Do my words, attitudes, and actions show honour to those God has placed in my life?

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the leaders You have placed in my life—my parents, spiritual mentors, and all who guide me in truth. Forgive me for times I have taken their sacrifices for granted or failed to honour them as I should. Teach me to honour with sincerity, not just in words but in actions. Help me to give You my very best in worship and obedience, for You are worthy of all honour and praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a fruitful day
(Dr.) Emmanuel Okoro
(aka Dr. Lift).

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