What does the Bible say about relationships with your parents?
The Bible calls children to honor their parents, and calls parents not to provoke their children but to raise them with care. Honor doesn't mean pretending a relationship is healthy or accepting abuse. Scripture invites honesty, forgiveness, and peace as far as it depends on you.
By RenewedSpirit team · Published · Updated
What does it mean to honor your parents?
Honor looks different at five and at fifty, but it never goes away.
"Honor your father and mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you."
The command to honor parents comes with a promise.
"Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old."
Listen to your father and don't despise your mother when she is old.
"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (which is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."
Children obey in the Lord, and fathers are told not to provoke their children.
What if my relationship with my parents is hard?
Scripture is realistic about broken families.
"Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they will not become discouraged."
Parents are warned not to embitter their children.
"If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone."
Live at peace as far as it depends on you. That can include healthy boundaries.
"Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me."
Even if father and mother forsake you, the Lord will receive you.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to obey my parents as an adult?
Scripture calls adult children to honor parents, not to obey them in everything. Honor means respect, care and gratitude where you can.
Can I set boundaries with my parents?
Yes. Living at peace as far as it depends on you can include boundaries, especially where there is harm.
How do I forgive my parents?
Be honest with God about the hurt, ask for help, and remember forgiveness doesn't erase the past or require unsafe closeness.
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Scripture and sources
Exodus 20:12; Proverbs 23:22; Ephesians 6:1-4; Colossians 3:21; Romans 12:18; Psalm 27:10. Berean Standard Bible (BSB), public domain.
Reviewed by the RenewedSpirit team · Editorial standards