Have you ever seen the TV show, "World's Strictest Parents"? I've been told by a lot of teens my age that my parents seem really strict. They are often called "very religious" by acquaintances, because they're always talking about the Bible (which is aimed to be at the center of all their choices) and tend to be conservative. When I was younger, I would agree with these thoughts, but then when I turned 16, I took a Bible class that made me realize how important God is and why. I formed an incredible respect for the Lord and His Will, and a new perspective of my parents, because they were doing God's Will and teaching my brother and me about loyalty, respect, honesty, hard work and giving. My church has Bible meetings withn the home, and my parents held a Sunday meeting at my house for many years until my mom had to lead because of his work schedule and illness.
My parents are pretty lenient and laid back for the most part.
Here are some rules that are in my house:
Music / Games: everything, no matter what it is, can influence you in either a positive or negative way, depending on what you are exposing yourself to. Make a conscious effort to filter the thoughts you have and to expose yourself to music that does not encourage premarital relations or drug abuse. Any music or game that is considerably ungodly is asked to be played in complete privacy at the very least. If the music is found to be making an incredible mockery of Christian morals or values, or has very violent, dark content, then it is banned from being played at all - even in private - so long as it is in the house
Clothing: should not display ungodly decorations such as skulls, witchcraft or unedifying words. Pants should be fit to the waist, and it is encouraged that men wear more than a tank top around girls. Very low cut shirts are not allowed and shorts / skirts must be no shorter than halfway to the knee. Ultimately, if it is indecent to wear in the work place, it is indecent to wear in my house; Descent PJs are acceptable around immediate family and sometimes friend
Conversation: If it is indecent to say to a boss or customer, it is indecent in the home. Swearing is highly discouraged, but slips do happen, in which case, an apology will be accepted. If the swearing is intentional, it will not be tolerated. Jokes are always allowed, as long as the ages present are taken into consideration
Meals: texting, books, TV, portable games and music are not allowed, however family meals around the TV are allowed. Prayer is always first!!
Chores: weekly chores are common, especially in prep for a Bible meeting and are asigned based on age and physical ability. Allowances are not to be expected, unless pay is offered or a request for a paid chore is accepted with the agreement of certain conditions that may apply
Adult Behavior: the drinking of alcoholic beverages are NOT allowed underage. It is highly encouraged that sexual purity be maintained until marriage, however, once 18, most decisions are your own. If you are out of high school and decide to live at home, you are still expected to contribute to chore work and to all other rules set, including curfew. When a significant other is over, your door is to be kept opened at all times, and they are expected to abide by and respect the rules set. Be mindful of your behavior, and think about the pros and cons of each choice before acting on them
Church: once 18, it is no longer mandatory that you attend Sunday meetings. If you choose to be there, you will never be forced to verbally participate, but it is asked that you ask questions after the meeting if possible and remain respectful. Feet must be off the couches, and it is highly preferred that feet be covered with socks, at the very least. Wearing PJs is usually not allowed. The use of any cell phone or related devices are usually not allowed, unless it's for medical or emergency purposes. Texting or calling is asked to be done out of the meeting room. When communion is held, it is expected that the house stay quiet shortly before, and also for the remainder of the night
Violating Rules: Warnings will be given, but not repetitively before privileges are taken away.
Obeying Rules: Trust is earned and maintained. Privileges are given. More freedom!