PROPER DRESS FOR CHURCH

Q: When I grew up, it was customary to dress up for church, as a sign of respect for being in God's house. But today, people seem to come to church dressed very casually, and I have a hard time getting my kids to understand the importance of dressing nicely, when all the other kids in church are in jeans and t shirts. Any advice?

A: First, let me say that growing up I too came from a family that emphasized appropriate attire. Not only was proper attire emphasized for church but for other occasions as well. I have four children of my own and I am raising them in the the same way I was raised as it relates to church and dress. So far they are able to look to God and not man for their approval (another lesson I was taught as a child). In other words, they dress their best for church every week. This training has been from infancy, which for us, has made a difference.
Without knowing your situation intimately, I want to ask that you search your heart and ask yourself if you have reflected the right principles of dress to your children. Secondly have you also been consistent in practicing the same standard(s) that you are placing on your children, and thirdly have you given clear and adequate instruction to your children as it relates to this topic of dress? You see, you need to determine what it is that is causing your children such resistance. You may even ask then why they are restive. With this in mind, here are four principles I believe may be helpful in leading you ...