“Each of you must respect your mother and father, and you must observe my Sabbaths. I am the Lord your God.” – Leviticus 19:3.  No matter what your age or status in life — this Bible passage clearly tells us to honor our parents regardless of their flaws or shortcomings. God gave us our parents to love and guide us in this world. And, honoring them is a very serious matter.

Affirm your love and respect for your parents in these simple ways.

Ask and listen to their advice.

“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.” – Proverbs 1:8

Remember, your parents are always willing to help you in any circumstances and you can always ask for their advice. Your parents know you better and they want to protect you from making mistakes or bad decisions. Engage in a heart to heart talk with your parents and tell them how you feel. “Wise children take their parents’ advice, but whoever makes fun of wisdom won’t listen to correction.” – Proverbs 13:1

Be obedient to them.

“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.” – Colossians 3:20

God wants us to obey our parents in everything we do. Be honest with them and keep their trust by avoiding the things that will hurt them. “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.” -Proverbs 12:22 If you are still living with them, obey the house rules. Help with the household chores before they ask you to do it. Wash the laundry, clean your room, wash the dishes and serve them with all your heart. Obeying them will also make them happy.

Speak kindly to them.

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” – Ephesians 4:29

This verse tells us to be very careful with our words. Be polite and patient when talking to your parents. Listen to them first before you talk back. Practice good manners and remember to say “please” and “thank you”. Avoid rude gestures and watch your tone when talking to them. “Whoever curses his father or his mother shall be put to death.” – Exodus 21:17

Make them feel special by giving them letters or present.

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. – 2 Corinthians 9:7

Reciprocate your parents love and care for you by giving them present. Be appreciative in everything that they do. Give them meaningful gifts on their birthday or special occasions such as devotional book, jewelry, mug or tumbler. Show your love and gratitude by writing them letters or email. Tell them how you appreciate their love and how much you learn from them. “…It is more blessed to give than to receive.” – Acts 20:35

Respect different perspectives.

“Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.” – Romans 14:1

Understand that you and your parents have a different perspective on some issues. Deal with your difference by accepting each other’s opinion and be calm when explaining your side. You don’t have to shout or yell to prove your point. Avoid intense argument and don’t make your difference be a hindrance to your relationship with them. “A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.” – Proverbs 15:18

Our parents love us unconditionally and they genuinely care for us. And, it is important to honor them for this God’s commandment and our obligation as a child. “Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise.” – Ephesians 6:2