What is honor worth? For one thing, God’s favor. In addition, a good name with man. Honor is the respect you command in the marketplace and the various environments where you interact. Honor issues in the dignity and respect accorded to you by others. How is honor conferred? What causes people to honor or dishonor you?
Many factors go into the equation. It relates to how you position yourself and the image you project. One thing you can be assured of: living in honor brings measures of good fruit and joy in life.
RELEVANCE
The Bible often correlates honor with wisdom. For that matter, much is written in Proverbs reflecting the value of honor.
“Get wisdom! Get understanding!
Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth.
Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you;
Love her, and she will keep you.
Wisdom is the principal thing;
Therefore get wisdom.
And in all your getting, get understanding.
Exalt her, and she will promote you;
She will bring you honor, when you embrace her.
She will place on your head an ornament of grace;
A crown of glory she will deliver to you.”
(Proverbs 4:5-9)
People of high economic status or achievement usually receive much honor. That’s because money is traditionally viewed as a status symbol. For that reason, society typically looks favorably upon those of wealth or those appearing to be wealthy; until they prove themselves unworthy of such honor.
How does that happen? By demonstrating foolishness. We often see it with celebrities and athletes, and even with business, civic and religious leaders. Their behavior, public or private, will reflect either wisdom or foolishness. Ultimately, Truth will be exposed and God’s word will prove to be accurate. Therefore, when seeking honor, first seek wisdom; which usually issues in courage. Why? Honor is a sign of distinction. And to be distinguished ultimately requires courage.
REFLECT AND RELATE
Think of situations where people reacted to what you said or did with some type of disdain or skepticism. Pray and reflect about it. Could personal bias be an issue, or could you have represented something that caused them to perceive something. People will always judge. But let God be your ultimate judge. His judgment will point to His greater love and grace.
REFERENCES
1 Samuel 24:6; Hebrews 12:23