(tee-may – time highly,to lead in preferring, worth, assessment, appraisal/outdo, esteem more)
Rom 12:10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Paul has a certain rhythm in the words he uses to instruct us to focus our behavior. Honor. We expect to hear this word in a wedding ceremony, in a life lesson to a child about respecting parents or to convince us to respect our elders. But this regal and top-shelf word should be used more often. And we should use it liberally on each other. Why save the china only for special occasions? Let’s figure out how to honor one another.
Would it hurt you to take the lead in preferring your brother or sister over yourself? Could you give them your cherished parking place, or relinquish your favorite pew from time to time? Could you clap a little louder for them, or truly celebrate when they have accomplished something? What about going all out and giving them credit for what they did? Remember the time you were in charge of the event, but they did all the work?
It is interesting that the Greek word for honor means “time” in English. Time is so valuable to us. For some, time may even be more valuable than money. It takes time to honor and time given to each other is truly a gift.
Let’s get to practicing this word more often by outdoing, esteeming more highly or taking the lead in honoring one another. You never know, it might just catch on!
Prayer: Lord, help me find time to give time. Show me ways to honor my brother. I will be willing and ready to act on opportunities you send my way.
If you have a story of honor about someone, share it in the comments area and help others be creative.
A few ideas on how to honor someone with time:
1. Visit a relative or friend or invite them to your house. Enjoy a meal together or a cup of coffee.
2. Honor a family of young ones by offering to babysit.
3. Write a letter or email updating someone about what is happening in your life and asking them how you can pray for them.
4. Give your spouse some time for him/her to enjoy a favorite hobby or just unwind after a long day.
5. Listen.
Great ideas Sarah! I like #1. My Grandparents used to drag me around to several neighbor’s and make their “rounds” to visit friends. As a little guy, I was bored (of course). However, I picked up on so many cool social cues of just watching them being with friends.