Chapter 25—The Christian Home
In choosing a home, God would have us consider, first of all, the
moral and religious influences that will surround us and our families.
As the location for a home is sought, let this purpose direct the
choice. Be not controlled by the desire for wealth, the dictates of
fashion, or the customs of society. Consider what will tend most to
simplicity, purity, health, and real worth.
Instead of dwelling where only the works of men can be seen,
where the sights and sounds frequently suggest thoughts of evil, where
turmoil and confusion bring weariness and disquietude, go where you
can look upon the works of God. Find rest of spirit in the beauty and
quietude and peace of nature. Let the eye rest on the green fields, the
groves, and the hills. Look up to the blue sky, unobscured by the city’s
dust and smoke, and breathe the invigorating air of heaven.
The time has come when, as God opens the way, families should
move out of the cities. The children should be taken into the coun-
try. The parents should get as suitable a place as their means will
allow. Though the dwelling may be small, yet there should be land in
connection with it that may be cultivated.
Fathers and mothers who possess a piece of land and a comfortable
home are kings and queens.
If possible, the home should be out of the city, where the children
can have ground to cultivate. Let them each have a piece of ground of
their own; and as you teach them how to make a garden, how to prepare
the soil for seed, and the importance of keeping all the weeds pulled
out, teach them also how important it is to keep unsightly, injurious
practices out of the life. Teach them to keep down wrong habits as
they keep down the weeds in their gardens. It will take time to teach
these lessons, but it will pay, greatly pay.
The earth has blessings hidden in her depths for those who have
courage and will and perseverance to gather her treasures. Many farm-
ers have failed to secure adequate returns from their land because they
have undertaken the work as though it was a degrading employment;
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