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Far-reaching Influence of Christian Home, September 8
O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I
declared thy wondrous works.
Psalm 71:17
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The temper, the personal peculiarities, the habits from which character
is developed—everything practiced in the home will reveal itself in all the
associations of life. The inclinations followed will work out in thoughts,
in words, in acts of the same character
The mission of the home extends beyond its own members. The
Christian home is to be an object-lesson, illustrating the excellence of the
true principles of life. Such an illustration will be a power for good in
the world. Far more powerful than any sermon that can be preached is
the influence of a true home.... As the youth go out from such a home,
the lessons they have learned are imparted. Nobler principles of life are
introduced into other households, and an uplifting influence works in the
community
The home in which the members are polite, courteous Christians exerts
a far-reaching influence for good. Other families will mark the results
attained by such a home, and will follow the example set, in their turn
guarding the home against satanic influences. The angels of God will
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. By watchful guarding, self is kept from asserting itself.
Correct 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 whole household. Under the hallowed influence
of such a home, the principle of brotherhood laid down in the Word of
God is more widely recognized and obeyed
The life of Christ is before us as a pattern, and it is when ministering,
like angels of mercy, to the wants of others that man is closely allied to
God. It is the nature of Christianity to make happy families and happy
members of society
[259]
23
Testimonies for the Church 6:174
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24
The Ministry of Healing, 352
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25
The Adventist Home, 31
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26
The Signs of the Times , February 17, 1881
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