Far-Reaching Influence of the Home
21
father and mother find helpers in their children, who give to others the
instruction received in the home. The neighborhood in which they live
is helped, for in it they have become enriched for time and for eternity.
The whole family is engaged in the service of the Master; and by their
godly example, others are inspired to be faithful and true to God in
dealing with His flock, His beautiful flock
The greatest evidence of the power of Christianity that can be
presented to the world is a well-ordered, well-disciplined family. This
will recommend the truth as nothing else can, for it is a living witness
of its practical power upon the heart
The best test of the Christianity of a home is the type of character
begotten by its influence. Actions speak louder than the most positive
profession of godliness
Our business in this world ... is to see what virtues we can teach our
children and our families to possess, that they shall have an influence
upon other families, and thus we can be an educating power although
we never enter into the desk. A well-ordered, a well-disciplined family
in the sight of God is more precious than fine gold, even than the
golden wedge of Ophir
Wonderful Possibilities Are Ours—Our time here is short. We
can pass through this world but once; as we pass along, let us make the
[33]
most of life. The work to which we are called does not require wealth
or social position or great ability. It requires a kindly, self-sacrificing
spirit and a steadfast purpose. A lamp, however small, if kept steadily
burning, may be the means of lighting many other lamps. Our sphere
of influence may seem narrow, our ability small, our opportunities few,
our acquirements limited; yet wonderful possibilities are ours through
a faithful use of the opportunities of our own homes. If we will open
our hearts and homes to the divine principles of life, we shall become
channels for currents of life-giving power. From our homes will flow
streams of healing, bringing life, and beauty, and fruitfulness where
now are barrenness and dearth
4
The Review and Herald, June 6, 1899
.
5
Testimonies For The Church 4:304
.
6
Patriarchs and Prophets, 579
.
7
Manuscript 12, 1895
.
8
The Ministry of Healing, 355
.