What has happened to deference in the character makeup of so many Americans? In times past, a cowpoke entering a humble log cabin on the prairie would remove his hat as a token of respect, showing deference regardless of the station of the people living there. Historically, visiting or doing business with the President in the Oval Office required wearing a suit with a jacket, out of deference for the office itself, not necessarily the person holding it. Yet, under recent administrations, such requirements have been relaxed, signaling a decline in this courteous respect. Moses was commanded to remove his shoes at the burning bush out of deference to the holy ground where God stood, demonstrating that deference can be demanded by our Creator. This act taught Moses his place before he was used for a greater purpose. Our Creator also commands deference to age, emphasizing that it must be respected. The American Heritage College Dictionary defines deference as submission or courteous yielding to the opinion or wishes of another, a courteous respect that seems to be fading. Historically, Americans have prided themselves on informality, often disregarding prescribed regulations, but this lack of deference contributes to the one-way tolerance seen today. Biblical examples show the value of deference: Noah deferred to God's command and built the ark, securing his salvation; Abraham deferred to God's wisdom to avoid conflict with Lot by making a sacrifice; Isaac deferred to his father's advice, giving up wells to avert warfare; Ruth deferred to Naomi's love, leaving her homeland to follow her; and David deferred to Abigail's counsel regarding Nabal. In contrast, the current humanistic version of tolerance lacks deference, driven by pride and a disregard for walking in another's shoes.

Deference, as a courteous yielding to the opinion or wishes of another, reflects a profound respect and humility. God commanded Moses to remove his shoes at the burning bush out of deference to the holy ground, made sacred by His presence, indicating that such respect was directly owed to Him. This act suggests that acknowledging one's place before Him is essential. The American Heritage College Dictionary defines deference as submission or courteous respect, a virtue vital for a Christian's character as it reveals humility and a thoughtful awareness of others' well-being, seeking to serve even in small ways. Jesus emphasizes this in Matthew 23:10-12, teaching that the greatest among His followers shall be a servant, and true exaltation comes from humble service, as God ultimately decides who is lifted up. Hebrews 13:17 illustrates commanded deference, urging believers to obey and yield to those who rule over them, aiding leaders in their duties with willing cooperation. In Ruth 1:16-18, Naomi defers to Ruth's earnest plea to stay with her, showing respect for the younger woman's determination. Similarly, in I Samuel 25, David defers to Abigail's appeal, choosing to withhold vengeance against Nabal. In each instance, deference requires wisdom and a humble, respectful submission to God and to one another, without which such yielding would not occur.