The Forgotten Virtue of Honor

The gospel of Jesus Christ was never meant to be something known but never lived. His death, burial, and resurrection carry the power of God unto salvation, and that power changes people from the inside out. Sound doctrine matters, but a form of godliness without a changed life denies the very power it claims to believe. The question is not only what Christians believe, but how they should then live. Honor is one of the forgotten virtues that makes the answer visible.

Mark 6 shows the danger of treating the precious as common. Nazareth recognized Jesus’ wisdom and miracles, yet familiarity reduced him to the carpenter down the street. Their dishonor and unbelief stood alongside an astonishing limitation: Jesus could not do mighty works there as he had elsewhere. Familiarity can breed the same apathy in marriages and other relationships, turning gratitude into taking people for granted.

Honor values, respects, and highly esteems. It lifts people up rather than tearing them down. “Respect is earned, but honor is given.” Honor need not wait until another person becomes everything that person ought to be; encouragement can help someone grow toward a better way of living. Scripture calls believers to honor parents, those in authority, and those who serve. That includes public servants, spiritual leaders, and the people whose quiet work strengthens the church. The reality of spiritual abuse remains a tragedy, not something to excuse, while faithful service still deserves recognition.

All true honor begins with a heart surrendered to God. Christ is not common or ordinary, and his name gives his people value. Like a treasured bat made valuable by the name written on it, believers carry a name that calls for a fitting response. Lip service is not enough. Hearts surrendered to Christ must produce changed words, practical gratitude, and kindness toward people who are difficult to honor.