Raising Kids Who Pray, Serve, and Show Up: A Family Builder’s Word for Election Week
Election Day is one week away, on Tuesday, November 3, and if you have kids at home, the dinner table conversations are probably already getting lively. Between the ads, the headlines, and the group chats, it is easy to feel like faith and public life are two separate worlds. But for families who are building something that lasts, they are not separate at all.
Our children are watching how we handle disagreement, how we talk about people who see things differently, and whether we actually show up for the community we say we love. They learn more from our example than from any speech we could give.
Pray First, Then Show Up
The Apostle Paul gave Timothy a simple instruction in 1 Timothy 2:1–2: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” Notice the order. Prayer comes first, and it covers everyone, including leaders we did not choose and leaders we did.
For many Black families in Georgia, showing up at the polls carries a weight that goes back generations. Our grandparents and great-grandparents stood in long lines, and some sacrificed a great deal, for the right we exercise today. Telling that story to our children is part of passing down faith and responsibility together. However you decide to vote, you can model participation that is prayerful, informed, and respectful.
Three Habits for Your Household
First, pray out loud as a family for your city, your state, and your nation, by name if you can. Second, talk through the issues with your children using questions instead of lectures, like “What do you think would help our neighbors most?” Third, serve together. Micah 6:8 reminds us that God requires us “to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Voting is one way to act justly. Serving a meal, mentoring a young person, or checking on an elderly neighbor is another.
A word of grace: you will not do this perfectly. Some dinners will end in debate, and some days you will be too tired for a meaningful talk. That is okay. Faith in a home is built through small, steady moments, and God multiplies what we offer.
Build With Us
ALCC is here to walk with your family. Join us for Sunday service at our Manchester or Eastman campus, or online, and bring the kids. If your household is carrying stress during a heavy news season, our Christian counseling team is available for individuals, couples, and families. And if you want to go deeper in the Word together, ask about ALCC Bible College and our community outreach events. Let’s build homes that pray, serve, and show up.
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