The Bible says at least 8 times: "Honor your father and your mother". The first time it is said in the Ten Commandments. There are no "conditions" to this, but there is a beautiful promise that accompanies it: "that your days may be long in the land which the LORD your God gives you." This means that the Lord calls us to honor our parents regardless of whether they are honorable or not, to treat them with respect, esteem and love. Not everyone had the best parents. Some have been mistreated, rejected, neglected, humiliated or scorned. Sometimes, their age and the problems associated with it can become a burden to deal with. As your parents you are called to honor them. The Lord repeatedly reiterates, in the Old and New Testaments, that we are called to always honor them, regardless of your age or whether or not you live with them.
If you find it difficult to obey this command, go before your Heavenly Father, open your heart to Him, ask Him for forgiveness for all those times you spoke disrespectfully to your parents, or underestimated them, or had negative feelings towards them. Ask the Lord to fill your heart with the love that looks beyond their imperfections, just as the Lord has looked beyond your imperfections. Let His grace flow into your life so you will have the humility and strength to let your parents know that they are appreciated and honored by you!
Together we pray to the Lord telling him: God of heaven, thank you for how Your word spoke to me today. I desire to do Your will. Help me to always honor my parents that you gave me. In the name of Jesus... Amen!
With love, Ivano Salerno