Showing honor and respect to others, particularly those who deserve it, is an essential aspect of living in community. The Bible provides verses that exhort us to honor and value one another, recognizing the worth and contributions of those around us.
These verses inspire us to cultivate a culture of honor, gratitude, and humility in our relationships and interactions.
By giving honor where it is due, we create an environment of mutual respect and appreciation. Let’s delve into these verses that guide us in honoring others with genuine love and esteem.
Bible Verses About Giving Honor When Honor Is Due
Romans 13:7
“Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of giving honor where it is due. As believers, we are called to respect and honor those in authority, paying tribute to them and recognizing their roles. By doing so, we demonstrate obedience and contribute to the order and well-being of society.
1 Peter 2:17
“Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.”
In this verse, Peter encourages believers to honor everyone, demonstrating a genuine respect for others. Additionally, he highlights the significance of loving fellow believers, revering God, and giving honor to earthly authorities, including the king or governing leaders. Honoring others reflects our understanding of their worth and dignity as creations of God.
Proverbs 3:9
“Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase.”
This verse directs us to honor the Lord by giving from our possessions and the first portion of our earnings. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing God’s provision in our lives and demonstrating gratitude and reverence by offering Him our best. By honoring God with our resources, we acknowledge His faithfulness and prioritize Him above all else.
Exodus 20:12
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.”
In the Ten Commandments, God commands us to honor our parents. This includes showing them respect, gratitude, and obedience. Honoring our parents not only demonstrates our appreciation for the life they have given us but also brings blessings and longevity as promised by God. It reflects our recognition of the authority and role they have in our lives.
1 Timothy 5:17
“Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.”
Paul instructs Timothy to give honor and recognition to elders who faithfully lead and teach the Word of God. Those who diligently serve in ministry deserve our respect and support. By honoring them, we acknowledge their dedication, sacrifice, and the value of their spiritual guidance.
Philippians 2:29
“Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem.”
In this verse, Paul encourages the believers in Philippi to receive and honor individuals who have faithfully served in the Lord’s work. They are to welcome them with joy and hold them in high regard. By honoring those who labor for the Gospel, we affirm their impact and encourage them in their calling.
Romans 12:10
“Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.”
Paul advises believers to display brotherly love and honor by valuing others above themselves. By giving preference to one another, we recognize the worth and contributions of our fellow believers. This attitude of honor fosters unity, humility, and selflessness within the body of Christ.
Hebrews 13:7
“Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct.”
The author of Hebrews encourages believers to remember and honor their spiritual leaders. They are to reflect on the impact of their lives and teachings, following their example of faith. By honoring faithful leaders, we express gratitude for their influence and encourage their continued spiritual guidance.
Proverbs 27:18
“Whoever keeps the fig tree will eat its fruit; so he who waits on his master will be honored.”
This verse illustrates the principle that those who faithfully serve their masters will be honored and rewarded. Just as tending to a fig tree results in enjoying its fruit, serving with dedication and loyalty brings honor and blessings. It emphasizes the value of diligence, integrity, and commitment in our responsibilities.
Mark 6:4
“But Jesus said to them, ‘A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.'”
When Jesus returned to His hometown, He faced rejection and a lack of honor from those who were familiar with Him. This verse highlights the unfortunate reality that sometimes familiarity breeds contempt, hindering people from recognizing and honoring the gifts and calling of others. It reminds us to guard against such attitudes and extend honor even to those we know well.
1 Corinthians 12:23
“And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty.”
Paul highlights the importance of giving honor and recognition to every member of the body of Christ. Even those whom society may consider less honorable or less visible are deserving of greater honor. By valuing and respecting each person’s contribution, we foster unity and create a healthy, functioning body.
Matthew 10:41
“He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward. And he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward.”
Jesus teaches that when we honor and receive individuals whom God has called and anointed, we partake in the blessings and rewards associated with their ministry. By recognizing the significance of their calling and responding in faith, we position ourselves to receive the benefits of their spiritual giftings and anointing.
Romans 12:13
“Distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.”
This verse encourages believers to honor others by generously meeting their needs and practicing hospitality. By demonstrating care and concern for fellow believers, we honor their worth and well-being. Hospitality opens doors for fellowship and provides practical support, fostering a sense of value, acceptance, and love.
Ephesians 6:2
“Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise.
Paul reaffirms the commandment to honor one’s parents, emphasizing that it is accompanied by a promise. By honoring our parents, we position ourselves to experience the blessings and favor that come with obedience. Honoring our earthly parents also reflects our understanding of honoring our heavenly Father.
1 Samuel 2:30
“Therefore the Lord God of Israel says: ‘I said indeed that your house and the house of your father would walk before Me forever.’ But now the Lord says: ‘Far be it from Me; for those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me shall be lightly esteemed.'”
This verse conveys the message that God honors those who honor Him. It reveals His faithfulness to fulfill His promises and bless those who genuinely respect and revere Him. Conversely, those who treat God with contempt or disregard shall receive little esteem. Our honor of God reflects our acknowledgment of His sovereignty and worthiness.
1 Timothy 6:1
“Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed.”
Paul advises bondservants to give their masters due honor and respect. By doing so, they represent Christ and His teachings well, preventing any opportunity for blasphemy or criticism. Honoring earthly authorities reflects our understanding of the ultimate authority of God and demonstrates our commitment to living out the principles of the Gospel.
Proverbs 20:29
“The glory of young men is their strength, and the splendor of old men is their gray head.”
This proverb highlights the honor and respect due to both the strength of youth and the wisdom of old age. It acknowledges the unique qualities and contributions that different stages of life bring. By valuing and honoring individuals in various seasons, we create a culture that appreciates the strengths and experiences of each generation.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
“And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.”
Paul encourages the believers to recognize and honor those who labor in leadership roles within the church. They are to hold them in high regard and appreciate their dedicated service. Esteeming leaders highly in love fosters unity, respect, and a peaceful atmosphere within the body of Christ.
Leviticus 19:32
“You shall rise before the gray headed and honor the presence of an old man, and fear your God: I am the Lord.”
God commands the Israelites to show respect and honor to the elderly. Rising before the gray-headed and acknowledging their presence demonstrates a reverence for age and the wisdom that comes with it. Honoring the elderly also reflects the fear of God and our recognition of His commandments.
Matthew 23:12
“And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Jesus teaches the principle that humility leads to exaltation. By choosing to humble ourselves and honor others, we position ourselves for God’s elevation and favor. Conversely, those who seek self-promotion and disregard the value of others will experience humbling. Honoring others aligns with the character of Christ and invites His exaltation in our lives.
Also Read: 27 Bible Verses About A God Fearing Man (With Commentary)
1 Corinthians 12:26
“And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.”
Paul highlights the interconnectedness and unity of the body of Christ. When one member of the body is honored, it brings joy to the entire body. Honoring others fosters a culture of mutual care, support, and celebration, recognizing that we are part of a larger whole and sharing in each other’s experiences.
Proverbs 22:4
“By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches and honor and life.”
This proverb teaches that humility and the fear of the Lord lead to the acquisition of riches, honor, and a fulfilled life. Humility positions us to receive God’s blessings and favor, and the fear of the Lord demonstrates reverence and obedience. Honoring God through humility and godly fear brings about the true wealth of His blessings.
1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.”
Peter instructs husbands to honor their wives by treating them with understanding, recognizing their value as equal heirs of God’s grace. Honoring one’s spouse involves showing respect, love, and consideration, fostering a healthy and harmonious marital relationship. Honoring one another strengthens the marital bond and ensures unhindered communication with God.
Matthew 15:4
“For God commanded, saying, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.'”
Jesus reminds the Pharisees of the commandment to honor parents, emphasizing its importance. By honoring our parents, we express gratitude for their role in our lives and recognize the authority and wisdom they possess. This commandment reflects our obedience to God and promotes familial harmony and respect.
Job 32:21-22
“Let me not, I pray, show partiality to anyone; nor let me flatter any man. For I do not know how to flatter, else my Maker would soon take me away.”
Job expresses his commitment to impartiality and honesty in his interactions with others. He emphasizes that he will not engage in flattery or show favoritism. By honoring integrity and fairness in our relationships, we reflect the character of our Creator and guard against compromise.
Proverbs 3:35
“The wise shall inherit glory, but shame shall be the legacy of fools.”
This proverb highlights the contrast between the wise and the foolish. Those who walk in wisdom and understanding are honored and inherit glory, while the foolish bring shame upon themselves. By pursuing wisdom and honoring godly principles, we position ourselves for honor and avoid the consequences of foolishness.
Mark 12:14
“Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Shall we pay, or shall we not pay?”
This question posed to Jesus by the Pharisees and Herodians regarding paying taxes to Caesar carries implications of honor and allegiance. While the context is specific to the payment of taxes, it reveals the tension between honoring earthly authorities and remaining faithful to God. Jesus’ response provides wisdom on balancing these obligations and giving honor in the appropriate context.
Psalm 15:4
“In whose eyes a vile person is despised, but he honors those who fear the Lord; he who swears to his own hurt and does not change.”
This verse describes the character of a righteous person who honors those who fear the Lord while despising wickedness. This includes demonstrating integrity and honoring commitments even when it becomes challenging or costly. By honoring those who fear God and upholding righteous principles, we reflect the character of God Himself.
Proverbs 11:16
“A gracious woman retains honor, but ruthless men retain riches.”
This proverb highlights the connection between graciousness and honor. A woman who carries herself with grace and kindness receives honor from others. In contrast, those who pursue wealth ruthlessly may amass riches but fail to gain the honor and respect that comes from a virtuous character.
Hebrews 13:17
“Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.”
The author of Hebrews emphasizes the importance of obeying and submitting to spiritual leaders who watch over and guide the congregation. By honoring their authority and making their responsibilities a joy rather than a burden, we contribute to the spiritual well-being of the community and ourselves.
Proverbs 16:31
“The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness.”
This proverb highlights the honor and respect due to the elderly who walk in righteousness. The gray hair symbolizes wisdom, experience, and the blessings of a life well-lived. Honoring the elderly who exemplify righteousness acknowledges their contribution to society and reflects the value of their wisdom.
These verses provide insights into the importance of giving honor when it is due. By recognizing the value and worth of others, whether it is God, parents, leaders, or fellow believers, we cultivate an atmosphere of respect, unity, and appreciation. Honor is not merely an external action but a reflection of the character and values we hold dear.