As a Christian wouldn't it be a good idea to live our life in such a way that those who meet you, or know you but don't know God, will come to know God because they know you? As a patriot, wouldn't it also be a good example to live our life in such a way that those who meet you, or know you but don't know America, will come to respect America more because they know you?

Matthew 22:35-40 (NCV) Jesus was asked by one of the Pharisees that was an expert in the Law of Moses which commandments in the law is the most important. Jesus answered, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind." "This is the first and most important command." "And the second command is like the first: Love your neighbor as you love yourself." "All the law and the writings of the prophets depend on these two commands."

It is also written in our American history books that George Washington, who has been called "The Father of America" once said, "It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible." "Do not ever let anyone claim to be a true American patriot if they ever attempt to separate Religion from politics."

Both as Christians and Americans shouldn't we hear the truth in the words that Jesus and George Washington have taught us? Shouldn’t we take these words to heart as our guidelines of what a true Christian and American should be?

By reading the Bible and by following Jesus' example of (how to live life) that is portrayed in New Testament, we get the true guidelines of what is right and what is wrong in how to live our daily lives. We often see "I’m Proud to be an American" stickers on cars and in the windows of homes, businesses and public buildings. I truly feel that to show pride in our great country that we live is our civic duty. Some of us though are better at preaching life's examples as a parent, as a leader, or citizen than living them as a way of life both in our homes and in public as the example that we should reflect.

Sometimes the old adage "Do as I say, not as I do" rings true for us. It can be very hard to be the Christian and patriotic example that we should be. But that still doesn't give us an excuse not to keep trying to be that example, and not the exception to the rule. You hear to often people say "Well I am only human" in a weak attempt of being a Christian or patriotic. I personally feel that we are all put here on this planet to be a better person before we depart it, and truly subscribe to the belief that the acronym for the word "Bible" does stand for (Basic Instructions before Leaving Earth). I also feel the acronym for the word "Patriotic" stands for (Proud Americans Taught Right in Our Truths, Independence, Chivalry).

I can only hope and pray that in the ever changing world, others who meet you will come to know God, and also think of you as a good patriotic example your country!

Family-eStore will try to provide you with articles of interest to a Christian and patriotic way of life. The articles are written by Steven Coffman (Owner) of Family-eStore.com (National Essay Contest) winner 1969. I am a person with strong Christian and patriotic beliefs. Tenacity, faith, and a belief in God, Country and Family are key components to success in life.

The Christian articles are only intended to bring you closer in your relationship to our Father in heaven. The Patriotic articles are only intended to show pride and patriotism to our “Land of the free and home of the brave, (The United States of America). I hope that you enjoy and are enlightened by them.