https://youtu.be/SR0B6SAXRIo

A Resident Alien

Have you ever visited another country? Americans stick out like a sore thumb in other countries because we have a different way of life than most other countries. The people from other countries know you are American by a few things: your language, your manners, your values, your behavior

Chris in Finland waiting for a bus- you must be from country that has small talk”

A list of American traits:

Americans are extremely independent, individualistic, and like to be different from each other.66% of Americans are overweight; 37% of those are obese.Americans believe in freedom of choice.Americans need a lot of “elbow room”; they like personal space around them.You must be over the age of 21 and you must have an identification card with a photo to buy or drink alcohol.In most states, it is illegal to buy cigarettes if you are under the age of 18 and often you can only smoke in certain places.Americans are extremely informal and call most people by their first name or nickname.Americans smile a lot and talk easily to strangers, sharing personal stories.Asking “How are you?” is simply a greeting and is not a question about your health.Americans don’t push or stand too close to anyone in line. They always wait their turn.Never ask Americans a direct question about their religion, age, money, salary, weight, or dress/suit sizeNever go to someone’s house without calling first to see if it is convenient.If you are invited to an American party, do not bring your children, friends, or family members without first asking the permission of the host.Time is money. Never be late to classes, employment interviews, appointments, parties (especially your wedding!), etcAmerican parents speak to their children as adults and teach them how to be responsible for their actions.American parents encourage their children to question and always ask “Why?”It is normal for American children to have very messy rooms.It is common for young Americans to carry security blankets or a stuffed toy.Americans do not hit their children but discipline them by taking things away.Americans hire “babysitters” to take care of their children when they go out or are at work.Americans love their pets, sometimes more than they love people.–ask an African how they treat dogs- KumiThe majority of older Americans prefer to live in retirement homes for independent living rather than to live with their grown children

As an American, we have been shaped by our American culture.

What is a ‘Resident Alien’? A resident alien is a foreign person who is a permanent resident of the country in which he or she resides, but does not have citizenship.

We are residents of this world, but our citizenship is in Heaven

Philippians 3:20New King James Version (NKJV)

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,

One’s conduct reflects one’s citizenship since one’s entire worldview is shaped by one’s country of origin.

If we are citizens of heaven, our thoughts, language, values, priorities, principles, and behavior will reflect godly standards instead of worldly ones. The value we place on earthly things will be admittedly limited as we look to store up eternal treasures in heaven—our home and land of rest.

Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them,[c] embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14 For those who say such things declare plainly ...