Verbal Honor - The One Year Daily Wisdom
Verbal Honor
Read Proverbs 20
If you insult your father or mother, your light will be snuffed out in total darkness.
Proverbs 20:20
Almost all of us have, at some point, insulted a parent in some way (just think about when we were teenagers), and yet we are still here, alive. So obviously, this proverb is not saying that a word uttered in anger, frustration, or ignorance against a parent will result in a bolt of lightning from on high.
However, that said, insults result from anger. Anger expressed outwardly comes from anger in the heart, which is the same emotion that can lead to many other dreadful and hurtful acts. Jesus said that although the law condemns murderers, those who are merely angry with another will be judged also (Matthew 5:21-22). Anger is not part of God’s plan for us or for the world. It is a sinful emotion that tends to lead to more sin and more hurt. We need to repent and seek forgiveness for any time that our anger takes control in our lives, and turn to God for the patience and strength that only he can provide.
A WORD FOR TODAY
Parental respect includes what we say.
Today, Lord, as yesterday, I need you to help me with anger. Help me to put your Holy Spirit in command instead, so that you are in complete control of my life.
