Text: Genesis 9:20-27
Memory verse:
“Honour your father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;” Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭2‬ ‭
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Do you know that it was the pronouncement of a father that produced the first generation of slaves on earth? That tells you the enormous and sacred authority that parents carry. God regards a dishonour to His delegated authority as a dishonour to His Person.
“he said, “A curse on Canaan! He will be a slave to his brothers”(Gen 9:25).
Yes, a father, a righteous man who just found such an unusual grace from God fell so low, that he uncovered himself in a drunken stupor. Parents act undeservedly sometimes but does that erode or weaken their God-given delegated authority? Does that excuse children from obeying the commandment of God who gave authority to the parents? (Exo 20:12). Does a father or mother’s failure make void the first commandment with a promise?
Ham, the younger son of Noah took the advantage of his father’s fall to dishonour and to attack his dignity. He exposed his father’s shame rather than covering it. He mocked his father rather than honouring him. But his two brothers, Shem and Japheth did the opposite.
In the ancient world merely seeing a father’s nakedness was a highly offensive act, as the father’s position as moral and spiritual head would be held in disrepute. Thus, having returned to consciousness, he pronounced a curse on the descendants of Ham. Thrice, he declared them as servants or slaves (Gen 9:25-27). Noah’s curse came true during the time of Joshua (Jos 9:27).
Friends, always remember that the first commandment didn’t attach a condition that children must honour their parents only when they are deserving. Even in their fall, honour your biological and spiritual parents, as God’s delegated authorities over you and you will attract a generational blessing like Shem and Japheth.

Prayer points
1. Father, please forgive me in any way that I have consciously or unconsciously violated Your commandment to honour my parents in Jesus name.
2. Father, please undo any negative pronouncements consciously or unconsciously made on me by my parents in Jesus name.

Today’s declarations
1. I attract generational blessing by honouring my parents, whether they deserve it or not.
2. I recognize my parents as God’s delegated authorities over me and I cover their nakedness and not expose it.

Contact: pastor@thf.org.ng