Teaching Children to Respect the Government

Memorial Day is right around the corner, followed by Flag Day, then Independence Day. All days celebrating the freedoms we have in America, those who fought for those freedoms and the flag that represents those freedoms.

I love the Americana holidays. We always put little American flags lining our sidewalk, we fly our flag on the front porch and have other Americana decor around our home. Our family is beyond grateful to those past and present who have fought for this country, and to their loved ones. We are proud to be a part of this amazing country.

I will admit that I do not always agree with the things some of our leaders do and say. I'm guessing you would say the same. However, as Christians, it is our responsibility to respect and pray for them. Why should we pray for them and respect them when they do wrong? Why do we have to do that just because we are Christians? The Bible tells us in Matthew:

You are the light of the world.

A city on a hill cannot be hidden.

Matthew 5:14

We are to be the light of the world. To pray for those who lead and to be an example to all who see. While I don't agree with some things our leaders do, I want to respect them and honor them because it teaches my children to do the same. I do not want my children to grow up and be disrespectful to leaders. I want them to appreciate our military and all branches of government.

How can we teach our kids to respect the government?

1. Teach them to pray for the leaders. Pray that God would guide the leaders of the government, our President included. Lead them by example in praying for the leaders.
2. Teach them to respect the leaders. We don't have to agree with all they do. Especially if it goes against the Word of God. However, we need to respect them. Not talking bad about them, but again, praying for them.
3. Teach them to pray for our military. They need to pray for the safety of our military. Also, teach them to pray for the families of the soldiers. These families make a huge sacrifice. They sit at home worrying about their loved one. Wives/husbands who have to be a single parent for while. Kids who miss mommy or daddy. Yes, the families need our prayers too.
4. Teach children to respect the flag. That flag represents who and what our country is. Teach them proper flag etiquette.
5. Teach them them meaning of the holidays; Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day and Veteran's Day. These days are known as picnic days or bbq days or swim days. And that's great to do those things. But there is a much deeper meaning behind the days. Teach your children the true meaning.

What are other ways you teach your children to respect our government and its leaders?

The Berenstain Bears have a new book, God Bless Our Country. In this new bear family adventure, Mama and Papa bear teach Brother and Sister all about the country and what the Bible says. This book is a great way to teach your children and with stickers included, it's fun for all ages.