Home Government
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not a slavish fear, but an element of love into the home. If we drink of
the water of life, the fountain will send forth sweet water, not bitter
Harsh words sour the temper and wound the hearts of children,
and in some cases these wounds are difficult to heal. Children are
sensitive to the least injustice, and some become discouraged under it
and will neither heed the loud, angry voice of command nor care for
threatenings of punishment
There is danger of too severely criticizing small things. Criticism
that is too severe, rules that are too rigid, lead to the disregard of all
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regulations; and by and by children thus educated will show the same
disrespect for the laws of Christ
Uniform Firmness, Unimpassioned Control Necessary—
Children have sensitive, loving natures. They are easily pleased and
easily made unhappy. By gentle discipline in loving words and acts
mothers may bind their children to their hearts. To manifest severity
and to be exacting with children are great mistakes. Uniform firmness
and unimpassioned control are necessary to the discipline of every
family. Say what you mean calmly, move with consideration, and
carry out what you say without deviation.
It will pay to manifest affection in your association with your
children. Do not repel them by lack of sympathy in their childish
sports, joys, and griefs. Never let a frown gather upon your brow or a
harsh word escape your lips. God writes all these words in His book
of records
Restraint and Caution Not Enough—Dear brethren, as a church
you have sadly neglected your duty toward the children and youth.
While rules and restrictions are laid upon them, great care should be
taken to show them the Christlike side of your character and not the
satanic side. Children need constant watchcare and tender love. Bind
them to your hearts, and keep the love as well as the fear of God before
them. Fathers and mothers do not control their own spirit and therefore
are not fit to govern others. To restrain and caution your children is not
13
Letter 8a, 1896
.
14
Testimonies For The Church 3, 532
.
15
Manuscript 7, 1899
.
16
Testimonies for the Church 3:532
.