Honor or Obedience?

Hmm… would I rather be honored or obeyed?  A few days ago my child defined true honor in her chosen action.  Right then and there my answer was found.  I’d choose honor over obedience any day.

I told my daughter I’d like to watch a video with her.  She knew I’d chosen the video because I felt it taught some really important life lessons.  In she comes saying, “I brought a notepad to take notes.”  As I chuckled inside my heart felt warmth.  My daughter showed that she valued the lessons I saw as important. 

She’s my compliant child so I’m used to her obedience.  The beauty of honor is that it’s a choice not a requirement.  Although, my daughter is well aware of my imperfections her actions showed that she feels there’s something to be learned from what I share with her.   Honor can continue after obedience is no longer required.

What is the difference between honor and obedience?  Honor shows a heart attitude of respect and willingness to learn.  Obedience is a choice to follow an order or rule.  Both honor and obedience hold value but the motives for honor and obedience often vary.

When applying this to my relationship with the Lord, a few lessons come to mind.  My friendship with the Lord is not about merely following a set of rules.  I serve a God who makes no mistakes and wants my obedience.  The Lord is honored when I choose to serve Him with my heart not merely my head.  I show honor for my God as my mind and heart come together to serve Him and show His love to those around me.  The honor I have for God also invites my cheerful obedience.  What a privilege it is to trust and follow a perfect Savior!

God is Worthy of All

Honor & Love