This could be a painful verse for some of us. Of course, one “who destroys” would be bad, even considered a menace to society.
But this verse suggests “he who robs his father or mother” and denies that it’s a bad thing “is a partner” to the destroyer. Sadly, we often don’t think that taking from family is really that big of a deal. After all, what is family for?!?!
Admittedly, some have grown up in dysfunctional homes and very inappropriate family situations. But most of us have had loving and supportive families who did the best they knew to do. I’m so grateful that I grew up in such a home.
So to steal from the very people who have invested in us the most is so inappropriate. In fact, they probably would even give us something to us if we really needed it – and asked. To just take it is a destructive behavior.
This verse gives us all an opportunity to take an honest look at ourselves and our relationships. For some of us, we need to face up to and get honest about the destroying we have done to those who love us.
But we might also need to recognize inappropriate behaviors of our loved ones and face the fact that they need a good dose of tough love from us. Either way, my mom taught me this wise saying – “honesty is always the best policy.” It’s time to man-up!