Chapter 19—Purity
Give Instruction in the Principles of Purity—Christian mothers,
be entreated by a mother to realize the responsibility resting upon you.
Teach your children from the cradle to practice self-denial and self-
control. Bring them up to have sound constitutions and good morals.
Impress upon their tender minds the truth that God does not design
that we shall live for present gratification merely, but for our ultimate
good. These lessons will be as seed sown in fertile soil, and they will
bear fruit that will make your hearts glad
To shield their children from contaminating influences, parents
should instruct them in the principles of purity. Those children who
in the home form habits of obedience and self-control will have little
difficulty in their school life and will escape many of the temptations
that beset the youth. Parents should train their children to be true to
God under all circumstances and in all places. They should surround
them with influences that tend to strengthen character. With such a
training, children, when sent away to school, will not be a cause of
disturbance or anxiety. They will be a support to their teachers and an
example and encouragement to their fellow pupils
Exercise Unceasing Watchfulness—Parents and guardians must
themselves maintain purity of heart and life if they would have their
children pure. They must give the needed instruction, and in addition
to this they must exercise unceasing watchfulness. Every day new
thoughts are awakened in the minds of the young, new impressions
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made upon their hearts. The associations they form, the books they
read, the habits they cherish—all must be guarded
Keep the Home Pure and Attractive—The home must be kept
pure and clean. Unclean, neglected corners in the house will tend
to make impure, neglected corners in the soul. Mothers, you are the
educators of your children, and you can do a great deal if you begin
1
Manuscript 44, 1900
.
2
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 150
.
3
The Signs of the Times, May 25, 1882
.
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