How to talk to adults

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As kids, we are often expected not to be mature,  respectful, or able to carry on a conversation with an adult. Which is not unfounded. As sinners, that is our nature, selfishness.

But as Christians, we have Holy Spirit living inside us. And since He is in charge of our lives, we need to rethink the way we interact with others, especially those older than us. If we want to honor God in the way we interact with others, we should treat others with dignity.

#1 Listen

He who answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him. -Proverbs 18:13

Listen to what adults have to say. Adults have been places we haven’t yet, and they’ve learned things that we could learn from them. Even if you disagree with them, at least respectfully listen.

Plans are established by counsel; By wise counsel wage war. -Proverbs 20:18

#2 Respect

Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord. -Leviticus 19:32

Respect adults. Listen respectfully, explain your view with respect. Be willing to admit when you are wrong.  If you disagree, don’t start a fight! Humbly explain why you disagree.

#3 Obey

 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” -Matthew 22: 37-40

Ultimately, everything we do in our lives should be in obedience to God. So when adults give you advice, test it against the Bible. If it matches what God says, then obey cheerfully. If not, then politely explain what God says.

Listen to what others have to say. Respect them, and humbly explain your view. Obey God cheerfully. If we treat adults respectfully, we just might be treated respectfully ourselves.

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