Young And Old!

Though it has been a while since your parents or grandparents were young people, the truth remains -- as someone has said -- "Old people know more about being young than young people know about being old." [source: calendar quote]

Just as it had been God's expectation under the Old Law, Paul reiterated the expectation of HONORING PARENTS in his letter to the church at Ephesus where we read. . .

"(1) Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. (2) 'HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER' (this is the first commandment with a promise), (3) 'that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.'" ( Ephesians 6:1-3 ESV)

This implies it is still God's desire for parents to be honored by their children. Though parents are all imperfect beings (yes, self included), during the years they have lived they have learned many valuable things to pass along to the next generation. Still, parents are to continue learning and should be willing to accept the reminders needed for fulfilling their God given task of nurturing their children. Therefore Paul did go on with an exhortation to fathers. Unfortunately, due to rebellion, many a young life has been cut short way before its prime due to ignoring needed warnings and wisdom.

Even within the church family honor and respect should be exercised. Peter exhorted. . .
"(5) Likewise, you who are YOUNGER, BE SUBJECT TO THE ELDERS. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'" ( 1 Peter 5:5 ESV)

The reference to "elders" here may include more than just the spiritual shepherds of the church; referring to older saints within the body of Christ. What Peter declared was to be done not just because they are older, but because of the spiritual maturity they have gained over the years of their Christian walk. However, did you note there is to be "HUMILITY" EXERCISED BY ALL? That HUMILITY of younger and older alike will go a long way in contributing to the fostering of honor and respect in these relationships. It is often the lack of HUMILITY that keeps us -- regardless of age -- from learning what we can from one another.

Solomon urged. . .
"(22) LISTEN TO YOUR FATHER WHO GAVE YOU LIFE, and DO NOT DESPISE YOUR MOTHER WHEN SHE IS OLD. (23) Buy truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding. (24) The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice; he who fathers a wise son will be glad in him. (25) LET YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER BE GLAD; LET HER WHO BORE YOU REJOICE." ( Proverbs 23:22-25 ESV) [note also Proverbs 1:8; 6:20-22]

Are we living in a manner that would produce such gladness and rejoicing? As we all make the decision to submit to God and then to one another (note also Ephesians 5:21) we can experience the blessing of MUTUAL BENEFIT from each other regardless of age. There are things we can learn from one another. May God be glorified in the manner in which we all treat one another within our homes and in the church.

Have a great day LIVING RESPECTFULLY TO GOD'S GLORY AND YOUR BENEFIT!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Humility