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An Attractive Quality With a Promise

Written By: Dabney Hedegard

“‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—”—Ephesians 6:2 (NIV)

What bothered me during my high school years was when my mom casually shared how my 12^th grade sweetheart—the most popular guy on campus—wasn’t the one God had planned as my future spouse.

Really, mom? I’d internally mumble.

But, he was sweet and diligent and had all the right morals a good Christian girl looks for, I wanted to remind her. As only a mom could, she noticed how he played the game right and attended church on Christmas and Easter, simply to make me happy. Mom said she’d pray for me and my future mate, and one day I’d see what she was talking about.

Over the course of two years, she prayed me away from our tiny town and into a Christian college situated across from Palm Beach. Although I was hesitant to leave, I knew respecting my mom’s hunches was the step God had confirmed. That’s probably why it didn’t take long before I realized my mom was right. Surrounding me were godly men and women who loved serving Christ and shared the same morals I craved in a partner.

And wouldn’t you know, as soon as I ended my three-year relationship, I met a young man who had the same passion for the Lord.

He wanted Bible studies by the beach?

He led student ministry services each Wednesday night?

He traveled on mission trips?

Twenty-one years later, I still thank mom for her prayers, for her gentle reminders that God had someone special planned with similar attractive qualities waiting for me. Respecting my mother’s wishes was the key to unlocking this unique design for my future. Our Father was smart enough to encourage us to honor our mother and father, and then sweeten His instructions with a promise. Because the next verse says that if we do, all will go well with us and we’ll enjoy a long life on earth. Obedience is tough. God wouldn’t spell out something that simple if He didn’t already know we’d struggle with listening to their wisdom.

Parents have been through the stuff of life and they see the things we can’t. Age is a gift. With so many years of experience, honoring those who have battled through the realities of life know how to guide us in achieving a better chance than they had. 

DIG: The promise of honoring our parents directly links to our days here on earth. When you think of this verse, how does it make you feel?

DISCOVER: Are there any attractive qualities your parents have helped you develop? Are there any specific areas they have mentioned you may want to work on?

DISPLAY: Listening to your parents may seem countercultural, but what if you knew that by following your parent’s advice, your future would look more promising? If you can, contact your parents today and ask them for wisdom. Maybe ask, “In what area of my life do you feel I may need a little work or guidance?” Then pray about the steps God is nudging you to take in adjusting that behavior.