June 4, 2026
As we grow older, many of us discover regrets about things we have done or failed to do. Such memories can be gifts from God, prompting self-examination, repentance, and spiritual growth. Though believers are forgiven through Christ, they are still called to conform their character to His, making amends where possible and showing His love in their relationships.
One of my deepest regrets is that I did not consistently honor my father and mother. In my youth, pride led me to believe that I had surpassed my father in wisdom and understanding. Possessing only a little education and limited life experience, I judged him harshly while overlooking my own faults. Like the hypocrisy Christ condemned, I was quick to see flaws in others while ignoring my own. By the time I recognized my error, my father had passed away. I could no longer apologize or repair the hurt I may have caused. The opportunity was gone forever.
That realization opened my eyes to a broader truth. I had often failed not only my parents but also family members, friends, associates, and employees. Many of these failures were sins of omission—neglecting kindness, encouragement, or responsibilities that should have received my attention. Self-centeredness had influenced my thinking more than I realized. Scripture teaches that we benefit others not for personal gain, but because genuine love and service reflect God’s design for human relationships. Honoring others, especially our parents, is both right and beneficial.
The gospel provides hope for such failures. God promises forgiveness to those who confess their sins and turn to Him. His mercy is far greater than our understanding. Through Christ’s sacrifice, sinners are offered reconciliation with God and the opportunity to begin anew. John 3:16 and countless other passages reveal God’s love toward a fallen world and His desire that people come to faith in Him.
Reflecting on these truths led me to think about our children and grandchildren. It is a joy to watch children exceed their parents’ accomplishments, and faithfully raise their own families. Our four children, with their mates, have devoted themselves to training up their children in the fear and admonition of the Lord. Rather than entrusting that responsibility to others, in loco parentis, they have invested tremendous time, effort, and resources in their children’s character development and educations. Their homes are filled with books, learning tools, practical projects, and opportunities to grow in knowledge and wisdom.
The children are encouraged to think critically, work diligently, care for one another, and understand the world through the lens of Scripture. They learn practical skills, pursue excellence in academics and technology, and develop habits of cooperation and responsibility. More importantly, they are nurtured in faith, prayer, and love. While no family is perfect, these efforts help prepare them to face life’s challenges with courage, integrity, and dependence upon God.
Parents bear many burdens and often make sacrifices that their children may not fully understand until much later. Before judging our parents, we should consider their struggles, responsibilities, and loving sacrifices on our behalves. Gratitude and respect are fitting responses to those who brought us into the world and labored to prepare us for life.
The central lesson is simple: “honor your father and mother.” We cannot undo our own past failures, but we can repent, seek God’s forgiveness, and choose a better path. By showing gratitude to our parents, extending grace to others, and persevering through life’s difficulties, we reflect the character of Christ. As Scripture teaches, “Honor thy father and mother,” a commandment accompanied by God’s promise of blessing.
Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth (Ephesians 6:2-3).