Mal 1:6 “A son honoureth his father ...”
The Bible tells us to honour our fathers but first, let’s understand who “a father” is. The Hebrew word translated “father” is 'âb. It also means “PRINCIPAL”. The word, “principal” could mean “the most important or senior person in an organization”; the person WHO'S IN CHARGE of things in an organization. A father is the one responsible for OVERSEEING all aspects of his family. Therefore, a father is the “General Overseer” of his family. Now, this is not a “title” but a “responsibility”. The concept of a father extends beyond biological lineage to encompass roles of leadership, provision (Luke 11:11-13), protection, discipline (Heb. 12:7), spiritual guidance, and instruction (1Thess. 2:11) within different types of family.
Now, everyone needs “a father figure” over his or her life. This could be a biological father, a spiritual father, an academic father, etc. It is required that we HONOUR the father figure(s) in our lives (Eph. 6:2). As part of ways to honour the father figure(s) in our lives, we must avoid anything that will bring shame and disgrace to them. Instead, let’s do the things that will give them joy and gladness. The Bible says, “A wise son maketh a glad father ...” (Prov. 10:1). Furthermore, we must treat our father figure(s) with respect, high regard, special consideration and attention, especially publicly.
Written by: Pastor Andrew A. Esemudje