Basic HTML Version
Father’s Heart Turned to His Children, July 13
Family Companionship
He shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart
of the children to their fathers.
Malachi 4:6
The father when he returns from his daily labor will not bring his
perplexities to his home. He will feel that home and the family circle
are too sacred to be marred with unhappy perplexities. When he left his
home he did not leave his Saviour and his religion behind. Both were
his companions. The sweet influence of his home, the blessing of his
wife, and the love of his children make his burdens light; and he returns
with peace in his heart and cheerful, encouraging words for his wife and
children, who are waiting joyfully to welcome his coming.
He should find it a pleasant change to spend some time with his
children. He may take them into the garden and show them the opening
buds and the varied tints of the blooming flowers.... He may impress
upon their minds the fact that if God cares so much for the trees and
flowers, he will care much more for the creatures formed in his image.
He may lead them early to understand that God wants children to be
lovely, not with artificial adornment, but with beauty of character, the
charms of kindness and affection, which will make their hearts bound
with joy and happiness.
If the frivolous and pleasure seeking will allow their minds to dwell
upon the real and the true, the heart cannot but be filled with reverence,
and they will adore the God of nature.
If you would draw your children to Jesus, you must not enter your
home with cross words, with a frown upon your brow. If you come
from your business weary and worn, just plead with God for His grace,
for His restful Spirit, that your heart may be melted with tenderness,
that your lips may be filled with words of kindness and comfort. Bind
your children to your heart. Recommend your religion to them by its
pleasantness.
[199]
208