How can we honor leaders?

Have you discovered the weaknesses of your parents, mate, children, pastors, employers, or politicians? I bet you have, and it may have made it more difficult to respect and honor them. It’s interesting that God does not give us another option. We are commanded to honor, honor, and honor others.

The Bible says, “Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.” (Romans 13:7, NIV) It even says, “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.” (1 Timothy 5:17, NIV) Our teachers and pastors are worthy of double honor. Wow! Let’s face the facts—our elders and leaders are not perfect, but they deserve to be honored.

So, how can we honor them without entering into denial or deception? The answer is quite simple, and it’s found in Genesis: “Noah, a man of the soil, proceeded to plant a vineyard. When he drank some of its wine, he became drunk and lay uncovered inside his tent. Ham, the father of Canaan, saw his father naked and told his two brothers outside. But Shem and Japheth took a garment and laid it across their shoulders; then they walked in backward and covered their father’s naked body. Their faces were turned the other way so that they would not see their father naked.” (Genesis 9:20-23, NIV) Noah’s actions saved the human race, but he was flawed. He could’ve been exposed as a drunk and fool, but his children covered him. 

So here’s my personal honor plan that has helped me in some pretty tough situations:   

1. Be aware that God uses imperfect people like you and me.  
2. Be aware that God’s call has to be honored and respected. David said not to touch the Lord’s anointed. “He said to his men, ‘The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD’s anointed, or lay my hand on him; for he is the anointed of the LORD.’” (1 Samuel 24:6, NIV)   
3. Don’t judge a leader’s motives. “‘Do not judge, or you too will be judged.’” (Matthew 7:1, NIV)   
4. Cover leaders in love and prayer: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8, NIV)  
5. Give them honor, respect, and appreciation. 

I hope my honor plan helps you fulfill the Lord’s commandment. I believe you will model this attitude to others because you are a miracle.

Your friend, Paul Marc Goulet