R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Since when has respecting our parents become an occasional thing? Why do we only treat our parents the way we should on their birthdays, Mother's Day and Father's Day? I'm not just talking about others either, I'm talking about myself. So often I'll put on my to-do list, "Respect my parents", and then just kinda forget that I was going to do that today. But, if respecting parents is so important to God, should I not do my absolute best to show my parents respect, honor and love? Think about it............"Honour thy father and thy mother; that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee". The first commandment with a promise was about children honouring their parents. Does that not show it's utmost improtance in a clear enough light?

So, for practical application on how to respect our parents and show it.

1) How about starting by praying for them and letting them know that we are. It's much easier to be kinder to someone when you're continually lifting them up in prayer.

2) Next, try obeying them immediately. My parents have always taught me that, "Delayed obedience is the same as disobedience".

3) Finally, just do little things for them that you know makes them happy. For instance, my mother loves for her fire to be kept going at all times, so I'm going to do my best to keep it stoked for her. Maybe even put a log on it every now and then. I don't think it'll kill me, do you?

Well, now I'm all motivated and ready to go! May the Lord give us grace to obey His commandments with a ready heart and willing hands!