Jul 14, 2019
At the beginning, God instilled in humanity the recognition and need for reverence and respect—for God, other people, and all of creation (Gen. 1:26; Heb. 12:28; Rev. 11:18). As humans are the only creatures capable of giving and receiving reverence, they are also the only ones capable of dishonor and disrespect. Disrespect happens when people ignore God’s authority structure and insult God’s agent. God hates disrespect, as rebellion against authority is ultimately rebellion against Him(Rom. 13:1-7). Disrespect in word, action, or attitude arises from an arrogant, prideful heart—often displayed in self-justifying or blaming others for personal failure. Disagreement with authority should never lead to disrespect of it. Being unsubmissive or unteachable leads to disrespect, which incurs God’s anger. Reverence leads to being respected, honored, and promoted, but disrespect leads to hatred, unemployment, and death.