Faith Filled Family Magazine July 2016 | Page 71

nity. Love your spiritual family. Revere God. Respect the government. Truly, our government can learn much from our choice to treat all with grace and dignity. The manner in which President Obama is disrespected is a disgrace to our nation. No, I’m not a democrat nor am I a republican. I’m a Christian on a mission. And I will not vote for anyone who doesn’t favor the infallible word of God. I simply agree to disagree politely and respectfully. He is not the first President who has approved of laws contrary to what God expects of Christians and nor will he be the last one. You don’t have to go along to get along. Neither should we compromise living a Christ-like life. But, God does expect us to respect those in leadership. This includes the Police and those in law enforcement, those within the military, government officials, etc. In so doing, we respect and honor God and the freedom to serve Him wholeheartedly. 1 Thessalonians 5:12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to appreciate those who diligently work among you [recognize, acknowledge, and respect your leaders], who are in charge over you in the Lord and who give you instruction, (AMP). This is an honorable rule to live by when you’re on the job. I realize some bosses are hard to work for. And this doesn’t mean to allow someone to mistreat you. However, someone needs to be the BIGGER person and do the right thing even when the Leader is not setting the good example. Perhaps, your gentle and meek response will melt their stony heart. In the final analysis, when your children respect authority, the rewards are fruitful. First, they become a profound example for others to follow their humble lifestyle. It goes well with them and they live a bountiful purposeful life, here on the Earth. And seriously, it really can prolong your life. (See Ephesians 6:1-3 above). Too many of our youths are being persuaded by gangs and those who have no regard for their life or a vested interest in their life. This leads to making bad choices with grave regrets. They are marked by God as being a child of excellence and His divine favor overflows in their life. This affects their chances of getting a job, being accepted in a good college, above all, it embarrasses and humiliates their family. In some cases, it can even cause their parents to either lose their job or a promotion. Unfortunately, we live in a culture where you are judged by your actions, behavior, and customs. So, think before you type that next negative nasty message on social media. It’s not just you who will reap what you have sown. Parents, make it your business to be aware of your children’s activities and who they are being impacted by. Monitor them well without losing their trust. And never leave them to their own thoughtless devices. You are The consequences for disre- the parent and they need your specting authority can be devas- spiritual guidance and love more tating for both the child and the than they realize. God bless you parents. If they break the law, and your family as you strives to depending upon how severe, bless Him in your obedience and they can end up going to jail. adherence to Godly principles. Hence, this record will follow them for the rest of their life.