Scripture: Proverbs 3:35

“The wise inherit honour, but fools are put to shame.” — Proverbs 3:35

Honour is one of the distinguishing marks of a believer who walks in wisdom. According to Proverbs 3:35, there is a way of living that attracts honour, and it begins with putting God first in every area of life. This is not merely about starting the day with prayer, but about living with the fear of God as the guiding principle of every decision. It means trusting Him above our fears, worries, emotions, and human reasoning. Prayer was never intended to be only a way of presenting requests to God; it is primarily a means of cultivating a relationship with Him. Therefore, the content and posture of our prayers matter just as much as the act of praying itself.

The way of the wise is demonstrated through practical daily living. It is seen in our attitude towards responsibilities and commitments, in the integrity of our words which is our willingness to speak the truth even when it may cost us personally. A believer should never be known for dishonesty, because truth is a reflection of God’s nature.

Honour is also evident in how we value people. Every person carries the image of God, and honour begins by recognizing the value God has placed on them rather than judging them according to status, influence, or personal preference. Too often, society teaches people to honour only those with power or relevance, but Kingdom culture calls believers to discern God’s worth in every individual.

Walking in honour requires self-discipline. For the believer, self-discipline is not merely self-control; it is the continual choice to be led by the Holy Spirit instead of emotions or human logic. It also shapes our attitude towards leadership and authority. Scripture teaches us to honour those God has placed over us, not simply because of who they are, but because of what God chooses to accomplish through them. As Proverbs 25:2 reminds us, there is value in recognizing God’s work through those He appoints.

Our generation often redefines biblical values. Arrogance is celebrated as confidence, while disrespect is excused as freedom or independence. Romans 12:2 reminds believers not to conform to the patterns of this world but to allow God to renew their minds so they can discern His perfect will. Honour calls us to resist cultural trends and instead embrace God’s standards.

The greatest form of honour is honour directed towards God. We express this by valuing His presence, obeying His instructions, believing His promises with unwavering faith, and honouring His servants. These are practical demonstrations that God truly holds first place in our hearts.

Honour is evidence of Kingdom culture. It reveals people who live with eternity and the future in mind rather than being driven only by present circumstances. It is also a sign of good training, reflecting lives that have been shaped by godly instruction and biblical principles.

Honouring others is never meant to depend on our emotions. True honour follows God’s order rather than personal feelings. When honour is based on emotions, it becomes inconsistent, but when it is rooted in God’s truth, it remains steadfast. Many acts of dishonour are simply the result of allowing emotions to govern our responses instead of the Spirit of God.

Finally, honour is a seed. Whatever we choose to honour has the potential to multiply in our own lives. Conversely, dishonour closes doors—not only in relationships but also spiritually, limiting access to opportunities, favour, and the blessings God desires to release. As believers, we are called to cultivate a lifestyle of honour that reflects Christ, strengthens our relationships, and demonstrates the values of God’s Kingdom in every sphere of life.