Family values seem to have gone on a downward spiral since my childhood. When I was a youngster, a yes, nope, or no would have gotten me a spat on the behind. I was taught manners - it was yes sir, no sir, yes ma'am, no ma'am, thank you, and please, when I was speaking to others. We never called an adult by their first name. It was either, aunt or uncle, papa or granny, or Mr. or Mrs. But, todays, kids get away with addressing their elders by first names, and most have no manners at all.
I am thankful that my children were brought up in the same manner I was and are now bringing up their children the same way. When they forget (especially when they were young), we'd repeat what they needed to have said, i.e., thank you, yes, sir, etc. It caught on, and they are well-mannered, well-adjusted children.
I can hardly make myself even call my pastor's wife by her first name, although she's only four years my senior. I was taught to be respectful of preachers and their wives, and others that held offices. I pray my children will be the same.
We, as Christians, should hold a higher standard in our lives than the world. We should stand apart from the worldly ways of 'anything goes'. The enemy has made it seem okay that we drop the mannerly aspects in life, and 'speak our mind'. But, that's not the way of a Christian. We are to honor our parents, and give respect to those that have watch over us. If we don't do this, then we are not keeping God's commandments.
Ephesians 5:8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:
Master's Table-Devotionals
