Chapter 280—In the Home
Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it.
Psalm 127:1
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God designs that the families of earth shall be a symbol of the family
in heaven. Christian homes, established and conducted in accordance with
God’s plan, are among His most effective agencies for the formation of
Christian character and for the advancement of His work.
The importance and the opportunities of the home life are illustrated in
the life of Jesus. He who came from heaven to be our example and teacher
spent thirty years as a member of the household at Nazareth.
His mother was His first human teacher. From her lips, and from
the scrolls of the prophets, He learned of heavenly things. He lived in
a peasant’s home, and faithfully and cheerfully He acted His part in bearing
the household burdens. He had been the Commander of heaven, and angels
had delighted to fulfill His word; now He was a willing servant, a loving,
obedient son....
Thus prepared, He went forth to His mission, in every moment of His
contact with men exerting upon them an influence to bless, a power to
transform, such as the world had never witnessed.
Let your home be such that Christ can enter it as an abiding guest. Let
it be such that people will take knowledge of you that you have been with
Jesus, and have learned of Him....
Angels of heaven often visit the home in which the will of God bears
sway. Under the power of divine grace, such a home becomes a place of
refreshing to worn, weary pilgrims. Self is kept from asserting itself. Right
habits are formed. There is a careful recognition of the rights of others. The
faith that works by love and purifies the soul stands at the helm, presiding
over the entire household.
The measure of your Christianity is gauged by the character of your
home life. The grace of Christ enables its possessors to make the home a
happy place, full of peace and rest.
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