How should a Christian deal with a parent that is verbally disrespectful towards them ?

[QuestionQuest74]

Should we just be slient or respond in a way that is not sin ?

 

[childeye 2]

Should we just be slient or respond in a way that is not sin ?

I would ask what I've done to earn their disrespect.

 

[Mark Quayle]

Should we just be slient or respond in a way that is not sin ?

I know a non-believer who recognizes that the parent feels awkwardly toward affectionate communication, and so speaks disrespectfully instead; and while he doesn't like it, he puts up with it, knowing the parent loves him.

 

[Laodicean60]

I'd expect my son to punch me in the mouth in Love to get my mind right and back on track.

 

[tturt]

Forgive as often as needed (Eph 4:26). Apologize - even if you don't know what they're upset about. It may break the ice and yield insight into their behavior. A "soft answer turneth away wrath..." (Pro 15:1). Also, how do you show them respect or honor them from their perspective? (Exo 20:12, Eph 6 :1-3).

 

[Laodicean60]

I'd expect my son to punch me in the mouth in Love to get my mind right and back on track.

I will explain this statement. I tend to say things and sometimes disrespectful (sarcasm) and the OP brought back memories. What made me realize I hurt my kids is the expression on their faces and If looks could kill, I'd be a dead man. Now looking back the statement I made is the punishment that I felt I deserved because of remorse.

 

[Avniel]

i think that depends on how it affects you. John 10:10 tells us, “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” If the communication is ignorable and a little annoying I would be a peacekeeper. However, if the disrespect affects you mentally, spiritually, financially or physically it needs to be addressed so you can live the life God promised.

If it bothers you that deeply, I would kindly address it once, I would write a letter to address it the second time and the third time I would firmly set strong boundaries. If that is not respected I would distance my self for 3 months and every time the attitude continues another 3 months. After 4 times of doing that I’m going to cut them off.

I have a very difficult mother and when we stopped talking it was the first time in my life I felt blessed. Honoring your mother and father should not be bondage, if it feels like that the most respectful thing to do is distance yourself.