How to Honor Your Father and Mother in the Last Days and Perilous Times
The Bible’s command to “honor thy father and thy mother” (Exodus 20:12) is straightforward—until you hit the “last days” Paul warns about in 2 Timothy 3:1, where “perilous times” turn everything upside down. He lists “disobedient to parents” (2 Timothy 3:2) as a hallmark of those days, suggesting family ties fray when the world gets chaotic. So how do you keep that fifth commandment when stress, division, or distance make it feel impossible? Here’s a guide to honoring your parents in a way that’s real, not robotic, even when times get fierce.
What “Honor” Actually Means
First, let’s unpack the word. In Hebrew, kabed (honor) means to give weight—to treat your parents with respect and significance. It’s not blind obedience or pretending they’re perfect; it’s recognizing their role in your life. Ephesians 6:2 calls it “the first commandment with promise”—long life tied to living it out. But in perilous times, when people are “unthankful” and “without natural affection” (2 Timothy 3:2-3), that respect can erode. Honoring them becomes a choice, not a reflex.
1. Start With Listening
Perilous times amplify tension—maybe your folks are anxious about the world or stuck in old ways. Honor them by hearing them out. You don’t have to agree—say they’re ranting about politics or prepping for doomsday—just listen without rolling your eyes. James 1:19 says, “be swift to hear, slow to speak.” It’s a small act that says, “You matter.” If they’re far off, a call or text checking in does the same. Time’s a currency; spend it on them.
2. Help Where You Can
The chaos of “wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:6) or a “covetous” culture (2 Timothy 3:2) might hit your parents hard—financially, emotionally, or physically. Honor them by stepping up. Fix their leaky faucet, drop off groceries, or just sit with them if they’re lonely. It’s not about fixing everything—Exodus doesn’t demand that—it’s about showing up. If they’re the stubborn type, offer without pushing; respect goes both ways.
3. Forgive the Flaws
Paul’s list—proud, unholy, trucebreakers—could describe anyone, parents included. Perilous times don’t make people saints; they might snap more or cling to bad habits. Honoring them doesn’t mean ignoring that. Colossians 3:13 says, “forbearing one another, and forgiving one another.” Let go of the small stuff—maybe Dad’s grumpier now, or Mom guilts you too much. Focus on their intent, not just their actions. It’s not excusing toxicity; it’s choosing peace over grudges.
4. Keep Boundaries If Needed
What if they’re the perilous ones—abusive, manipulative, or “denying the power” of godliness (2 Timothy 3:5)? Honor doesn’t mean endangerment. Proverbs 22:3 says a prudent man “seeth the evil, and hideth himself.” You can respect their role from a distance—pray for them, wish them well, send a card—without letting harm in. It’s a tightrope, but scripture doesn’t guilt you into suffering. Seek wisdom (James 1:5) to balance it right.
5. Pass Down Something Good
Honoring isn’t just upward—it’s forward. In a world of “lovers of their own selves” (2 Timothy 3:2), teach your kids or others what your parents gave you: a work ethic, a story, a recipe. Deuteronomy 6:7 talks about passing faith along. Even if your relationship’s rocky, sharing their better legacy keeps the commandment alive. It’s honoring their impact, not their perfection.
6. Lean on Patience and Prayer
Perilous times test everyone’s limits—your parents might cling tighter or push you away. Patience is honoring them when they’re hard to love. 1 Corinthians 13:4 says love “suffereth long.” If you’re spiritual, pray for them—Matthew 5:44 even says pray for enemies, so parents qualify too. Ask for strength to see them clearly. If prayer’s not your thing, reflect on what they’ve weathered; it builds empathy.
Why It’s Worth It
In the last days, when “natural affection” fades, honoring your father and mother stands out. It’s not about them deserving it—none of us do, per Romans 3:23—it’s about you living it. The promise of “long life” might be literal, but it’s also a life less weighed down by regret. Jesus honored Mary from the cross (John 19:26-27), even in agony. You don’t need a perfect family or a perfect world to start.
One Step Today
Perilous times don’t pause for sentimentality, but you can. Text your mom something kind, ask your dad a question, or just think about what they’ve done for you. It’s not about grand gestures—it’s about weight. In a “fierce” season, that’s how you hold the line.
This article was written by Grok AI and Ben Ross dedicated to my Amazing Mom and Dad Mickey and Mary
