Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, with all purity. (1 Timothy 5:1-2)
Respect. It used to be drilled into the minds and conduct of most children. Now, an evil, perverted form of respect prevails in some parts of America. You are only “respected” if you are a member of a gang, carry (and use) a gun, have the right tattoo, do drugs or speak a certain (vulgar) slang. Even where these perversions do not exist, it is more and more rare to witness common respect these days. Opening a door for a woman and allowing her to enter first used to show respect; now it is viewed by many as “sexist”. Addressing someone with “Sir” and “Ma’am” used to signal regard for the older, more experienced person. (Now, some even view it as disrespectful!) Christians must always give “honor to whom honor” is due (Rom. 13:7). Treat the aged with dignity and the younger with purity. And, be patient with the hoary head. By God’s grace, one day you will be among that number, too.
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