Value: Honor 

Definition: Special esteem or respect, given or received 

Vital Verses 

• “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”  – I Corinthians 6:20
• “And they did all, both they who had been healed and they who were whole, bow down at his feet, and did worship him; and as many as could come for the multitude did kiss his feet, insomuch that they did bathe his feet with their tears.” – 3 Nephi 17:10

Scriptural Example

The Word of God directs us to show honor toward a number of people: our parents, the aged, and those in authority. It speaks of the honor between a husband and wife in marriage and even of a group of people who are deserving of “double honor,” those who labor in furthering the Church. But we also understand that all honor belongs to God and His son Jesus Christ because God prepared a plan of salvation that included the sacrifice of His only Son for the sins of every man and woman. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). 

Life Application 

There are a variety of medals awarded to members of the U.S. military for various reasons — the Silver Medal, Distinguished Service Cross, Purple Heart and the Bronze Star, to name a few. But for those special individuals who perform an act of valor above and beyond the call of duty, the Medal of Honor is awarded. This medal is the United States of America’s highest military honor and is only awarded by the President of the United States.

Do you know anyone who has performed an act of valor above and beyond the call of duty, worthy to be honored? 

Isn’t Christ the ultimate example of someone who battled the enemy of our soul? Who willingly suffered and gave His life that we might have life? Who conquered death and was victorious over the grave that we might have salvation? Instead of “honoring” Christ with a medal presented by a dignitary, we are privileged to honor Him through our willingness to enter into a covenant (by repentance and baptism) and thereby serve Him in surrendering our will to Him, that His Spirit (the gift of the Holy Ghost) might direct our choices and decisions in life.

Honoring Jesus Christ through the way we live our lives is the greatest way we can show our love, respect, and gratitude. It’s our honesty, integrity, and truthfulness, in every action, behavior, and thought that reflects our sincerity. 

Points to Ponder

• How well do you honor your parents, the aged, your boss, your marriage, the elders of the Church, and most importantly, the Lord, Jesus Christ?
• Do you sometime find that it’s easier to “honor” or respect celebrities or the wealthy or influential people in comparison to the Lord? Why is that?
• Try to imagine the smile on the Lord’s face when you “honor” Him through your actions, words, and thoughts.

This article has undergone ministry review and approval.