An observation

I've been working with several kids this past week for this years vacation Bible school and have made a few interesting observations. There is a distinct contrast in the group, and in the church as a whole for that matter, the churched and the unchurched. I've witnessed disappointing things. Now this observation is in general, there are few exceptions, and the kids are being compared to their own age group so I don't want to hear about their maturity.
As far as the churched kids go

• The discipline is lacking, you cant tell these little one's to do much
• The kids walk all over the adults and do not obey their parents until the "I'm going to count to three" routine
• They seem shocked at stern words directed at them, and there is little to no reaction

I understand the church seems like a second home for these guys but do they act this way at home too? I question the parenting. No I'm not a parent, but I've been a kid who knew how to act. It is what it is, the kids behavior shows the parenting. "Well we positive reinforce our kids". Well positively reinforce your kid on the rear end behind closed a door!

Moving on to the unchurched

• These kids have heard a stern voice and know what comes next if they continue
• There is a respect to the words,"Does your Dad need to know what is going on".
• There is more discipline in them.

What gives, Shouldn't it be the other way around? I am personally tired of sissy christian kids that cry twice as much as the kids who rarely hear about God.

Two boys are in line one pushes the other, that boy says in very assertive tone,"Don't push me again". The other one crys, can you guess which one goes to church? I understand humility and a soft heart but there should be a balance between aggressive and passive.

To the Christ following Parent

• Take a "How to discipline your kid" class
• The parent that isn't afraid to bend your kid across your knee, teach that class
• introduce respect for elders concept in your kids life, it works wonders

The Christ spectating Parent

• Be do'ers of the word, scripture has a lot to say about parenting, I'm not a parent and am reading the best how to parent guide called the Bible. It's good stuff.
• Umm...read the Bible then see above.

I had a heavy amount a discipline in my younger years, I was one of those kids who needed it. Discipline is the instant willingness to obey all orders, respect for others, and self reliance. Discipline leads to respect which leads to good behavior that equals a good example of a little Jesus. If you didn't like what has just been said I know what category you fit in....