Chapter 45—Mother’s First Duty Is To Train
Children
The Possibilities in a Properly Trained Child—God sees all the
possibilities in that mite of humanity. He sees that with proper training
the child will become a power for good in the world. He watches with
anxious interest to see whether the parents will carry out His plan or
whether by mistaken kindness they will destroy His purpose, indulging
the child to its present and eternal ruin. To transform this helpless
and apparently insignificant being into a blessing to the world and an
honor to God is a great and grand work. Parents should allow nothing
to come between them and the obligation they owe to their children
A Work for God and Country—Those who keep the law of God
look upon their children with indefinable feelings of hope and fear,
wondering what part they will act in the great conflict that is just
before them. The anxious mother questions, “What stand will they
take? What can I do to prepare them to act well their part, so that they
will be the recipients of eternal glory?” Great responsibilities rest upon
you, mothers. Although you may not stand in national councils, ...
you may do a great work for God and your country. You may educate
your children. You may aid them to develop characters that will not be
swayed or influenced to do evil, but will sway and influence others to
do right. By your fervent prayers of faith you can move the arm that
moves the world
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It is in childhood and youth that instruction should be given. The
children should be educated for usefulness. They should be taught
to do those things that are needful in the home life; and the parents
should make these duties as pleasant as possible with kindly words of
instruction and approval
Home Training Is Neglected by Many—Notwithstanding
boasted advancement that has been made in educational methods,
1
The Signs of the Times, September 25, 1901
.
2
The Review and Herald, April 23, 1889
.
3
Manuscript 12, 1898
.
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