Chapter 26—Parents’ Legacy to Children
The Law of Heredity—The physical and mental condition of the
parents is perpetuated in their offspring. This is a matter that is not
duly considered. Wherever the habits of the parents are contrary to
physical law, the injury done to themselves will be repeated in the
future generations....
By physical, mental, and moral culture all may become co-workers
with Christ. Very much depends upon the parents. It lies with them
whether they shall bring into the world children who will prove a
blessing or a curse
The nobler the aims, the higher the mental and spiritual endow-
ments, and the better developed the physical powers of the parents, the
better will be the life equipment they give their children. In cultivating
that which is best in themselves, parents are exerting an influence to
mold society and to uplift future generations
Many Parents Are Lamentably Ignorant—Those who have
charge of God’s property in the souls and bodies of the children formed
in His image should erect barriers against the sensual indulgence of
this age which is ruining the physical and moral health of thousands.
If the many crimes of this time were traced to their true cause, it would
be seen that they are chargeable to the ignorance of fathers and moth-
ers who are indifferent on this subject. Health and life itself is being
sacrificed to this lamentable ignorance. Parents, if you fail to give
your children the education that God makes it your duty to give them,
both by precept and example, you must answer to your God for the
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results. These results will not be confined merely to your children.
They will reach through generations. Just as the one thistle permitted
to grow in the field produces a harvest of its kind, the sins resulting
from your neglect will work to ruin all who come within the sphere of
their influence
1
Manuscript 3, 1897
.
2
The Ministry of Healing, 371
.
3
Manuscript 58, 1899
.
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