Leader Guide
This past weekend, we took time to recognize and honor the mothers and mother figures in our lives. For some, Mother's Day is a time of gratitude and celebration. For others, it can bring up difficult emotions due to loss, broken relationships, or unmet desires. In moments like these, it’s important to remember that days like Mother’s Day or Father’s Day are meant to be about honor, not our identity. Our worth isn’t defined by whether we’ve had a good parent, are a parent, or hope to be one. For those who follow Jesus, our identity is rooted in Him. From that foundation, we’re called to honor those God has placed in our lives--especially those who have shaped us for the better. This week our focus is on learning how to honor others, not just on special days, but as a way of life.
What you will need:
A Bible or Bible app
A notebook
A pen
A highlighter
(Scripture references below are linked for easy access)
Jump Start
Leaders: This section is designed to spark discussion, explore God’s truth, and apply it to daily life. Keep in mind that not everyone in your group may be a Christ follower. Be mindful that some participants may be exploring faith or healing from past wounds. Their participation shows openness, so pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you lead.
1. Who is someone in your life that has had a significant impact on you? (Examples: parent, teacher, coach, boss, co-worker, friend.) Look up the definition of the word honor. How would you practically describe what it means to honor someone?
2. Read 1 Peter 2:17, Genesis 1:26. Why can it be so challenging to honor or respect everyone—especially those who have hurt us or who are hard to love? What does it mean that every person is made in the image of God? How should this change our view of others?
Leaders: Honoring others doesn't mean agreeing with or excusing everything people have done to you. It means choosing to value them as image bearers of God.
3. Read Proverbs 4:23; 27:19. What do these verses suggest about the connection between our heart and our actions? When disrespect and dishonor come out of us, what might it reveal about what’s going on inside? How can we cultivate a heart that reflects Christ?
Leaders: Spending time with God through prayer, in His Word, and with other believers can create a right heart within us.
4. Read 1 Timothy 2:1-3. How can praying for someone—even someone you find difficult—change your attitude toward them?
Leaders: When we spend time genuinely praying for someone it allows God to shift our perspective and soften our hearts, making it hard to harbor bitterness.
5. Read Philippians 2:3-6; Hebrews 12:2. Why is it countercultural to put others above ourselves? How did Jesus model humility and honor in the way He lived—and died?
Leaders: Jesus humbled Himself for our sake. Honoring others should be an overflow from understanding His example and what He did for us.
Action Steps: Ask God to help you honor and value those He has placed in your life this week. Reflecting His heart with your actions. Maybe this could be through reaching out with a kind word, prayer, or a simple act of service.