I recently came across this verse from the law of Moses: “You shall rise up before the hoary [frosty] head, and honor the face of the old man, and fear your God: I am the Lord” (Leviticus 19:32).

Now, I understand that we are not under the Law God gave to Moses for the Israelites. But, I think there are some spiritual principles behind the laws. In this command, God is telling us how to fear the Lord. And one of those ways is to honor the pioneers of Christianity that went before us. To rise before the white head, is to publicly show honor to the men and women who have shown us the way. This simple gesture may become an open door for blessing to be sent our way.

I have tried to practice this principle by honoring several men who had a part of my spiritual development: Gilbert Dilley, Rod Hall, and Bishop Paul E. Paino, among others. Even when I disagreed with them, I still remember the Lord’s wishes for me. How I feel or what others are saying is irrelevant to this command.

Who were the men and women who inspired you in your walk with God? How does God say you should treat them as they age? This would be a good time to remind yourself to honor those folks for Jesus’ sake. He is the Lord.