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Testimonies for the Church Volume 7
foundation of loyalty to truth, to their fellow beings, and to God.
In cases of difficulty with the ones who have them in charge, go
directly to those in authority and learn the truth. Bear in mind that
the managers of the various departments understand much better than
others can what regulations are essential. Manifest confidence in their
judgment and respect for their authority. Teach your children to respect
and honor the ones to whom God has shown respect and honor by
placing them in positions of trust.
In no way can the members of the church more effectively second
the efforts of the managers in our institutions than by giving in their
own homes an example of right order and discipline. Let parents
in their words and deportment give to their children an example of
what they desire them to be. Let purity in speech and true Christian
courtesy be constantly maintained. Let there be no encouragement to
sin, no evil speaking or evil surmising. Teach the children and youth
to respect themselves, to be true to principle, true to God. Teach them
to respect and obey the law of God and the rules of the home. Then
they will practice these principles in their lives and will carry them
out in all their associations with others. They will love their neighbor
as themselves; they will create a pure atmosphere and will exert an
influence to encourage weak souls in the path that leads to holiness
and heaven.
Children who receive such instruction will not be a burden, a cause
of anxiety, in our institutions; they will be a support to those who bear
responsibility. Under right instruction they will be prepared to fill
places of trust, and by precept and example will constantly aid others
to do right. They will put a just estimate upon their own endowments
and will make the best use of their physical, mental, and spiritual
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powers. Such souls are fortified against temptation; they are not easily
overcome. With the blessing of God such characters are light bearers;
their influence tends to educate others for a business life which is a
practical Christian life.
The members of the church, filled with Christ’s love for souls,
and awake to their privileges and opportunities, may exert upon the
youth in our institutions an influence for good that is beyond estimate.
Their example of faithfulness in the home, in business, and in the
church, their manifestation of social kindness and Christian courtesy,
combined with a genuine interest for the youth’s spiritual well-being,