Honor: The Missing Key in Modern Discipleship

In a world where respect seems increasingly rare and self-interest often trumps relationship, the biblical principle of honor stands as a powerful counter-cultural force. Drawing insights from Moses Mukisa's "The Principle and Practice of Honor," I've come to realize that honor isn't just a nice-to-have virtue ;it's fundamental to authentic Christian discipleship.

Understanding True Honor

Honor goes far beyond mere politeness or following social etiquette. It's a heart posture that recognizes and actively responds to the value in others, whether they "deserve" it or not. Honor is more than just respect; it is a transformational principle that shapes individuals, communities, and nations. When we honor others, we're essentially saying, "I see the image of God in you, and I choose to treat you accordingly."

 

Why Honor Matters in Discipleship

The connection between honor and spiritual growth might not be immediately obvious, but it's profound. Here's why:

1. Honor Creates an Environment for Growth

When we cultivate honor in our discipleship relationships, we create safe spaces where vulnerability and authentic transformation can occur. Just as plants thrive in nutrient-rich soil, disciples flourish in atmospheres of honor.

2. Honor Releases Spiritual Authority

One of the most striking insights from Mukisa's work is how honor positions us to receive from others. When we honor our spiritual leaders and fellow believers, we open ourselves to the wisdom, grace and gifting God wants to impart through them.

3. Honor Breaks Pride's Grip

In my own journey, I've discovered that practicing honor consistently requires dying to self-importance and entitlement; those subtle forms of pride that can stunt our spiritual growth.

4.Honor Strengthens Relationships – It fosters trust, accountability, and mutual respect in discipleship.

5.Honor Attracts Blessings – Scripture teaches that honoring parents, spiritual leaders, and God leads to divine favor and longevity.

6.Honor is a Heart Posture, Not Just an Act – True honor comes from a place of humility and reverence, not obligation.

 

The Practical Side of Honor

Let's move beyond theory to practice. Here are tangible ways to cultivate honor in your discipleship journey:

Within Your Church Community:

·       Speak well of your leaders, especially in their absence

·       Arrive early for church gatherings and meetings, showing respect for others' time

·       Actively listen when others share, giving them your full attention

·       Follow through on commitments made to your discipleship group

 

In Mentoring Relationships:

·       Be teachable and receptive to feedback

·       Express gratitude specifically and regularly

·       Honor financial commitments in ministry contexts

·       Create opportunities for your mentor to impart into your life

 

In Peer Relationships:

·       Celebrate others' successes without comparison or competition

·       Guard confidences shared in discipleship settings

·       Look for and acknowledge growth in your fellow disciples

·       Be quick to reconcile when conflicts arise

The Challenge of Honor

Let's be honest, practicing honor isn't always easy. It can feel uncomfortable to honor someone who seems less spiritual than us, or to honor a leader whose flaws we clearly see. But that's precisely when honor becomes most powerful; when it's a choice rather than a response to merit.

Action Points for Growing in Honor

1. Daily Honor Audit

·       Each evening, reflect on your interactions. Did your words and actions communicate honor?

·       Note specific instances where you could have shown more honor

·       Plan concrete ways to grow in honor the next day

 

2. Honor Initiative Challenge

·       Choose one person each week to intentionally honor

·       Write them a specific note of appreciation

·       Look for practical ways to serve them

·       Speak well of them to others

 

3. Honor in Conflict

When disagreements arise, practice honoring responses:

·       Listen fully before responding

·       Acknowledge valid points in the other person's perspective

·       Choose words that preserve dignity

·       Focus on solutions rather than blame

 

4. Build Honor Habits

·       Start meetings by acknowledging others' contributions

·       Create regular rhythms of appreciation in your discipleship groups

·       Develop the habit of speaking life-giving words

·       Practice punctuality as a form of honor

 

The Ripple Effect

As you begin practicing honor consistently, you'll notice something remarkable: it spreads. Your example will inspire others, creating a culture of honor that attracts people to Christ and facilitates genuine discipleship.

A Personal Challenge

I want to challenge you to take one action point from this post and implement it this week. Don't try to revolutionize your entire approach to honor overnight. Start small, be consistent, and watch how God uses this principle to transform your discipleship journey.

Remember, honor isn't just about following rules or maintaining appearances. It's about recognizing and responding to the divine image in others, creating an environment where genuine discipleship can flourish. As we grow in honor, we not only become more effective disciples but also better reflect the character of Christ to a watching world.