Sabbath—The Day of Delight
407
our duty to command our children and our household after us, as did
Abraham. By example as well as precept we should impress upon them
the importance of religious teaching. All who have taken the baptismal
vow have solemnly consecrated themselves to the service of God; they
are under covenant obligation to place themselves and their children
[531]
where they may obtain all possible incentives and encouragement in
the Christian life
But while we worship God, we are not to consider this a drudgery.
The Sabbath of the Lord is to be made a blessing to us and to our
children. They are to look upon the Sabbath as a day of delight, a
day which God has sanctified; and they will so consider it if they are
properly instructed
Wear Comely Garments for the House of Worship—Many
need instruction as to how they should appear in the assembly for
worship on the Sabbath. They are not to enter the presence of God in
the common clothing worn during the week. All should have a spe-
cial Sabbath suit, to be worn when attending service in God’s house.
While we should not conform to worldly fashions, we are not to be
indifferent in regard to our outward appearance. We are to be neat and
trim, though without adornment. The children of God should be pure
within and without
Explain Sabbath Sermon to the Children—Ministers are en-
gaged in a sacred, solemn work, but upon those who hear rests just as
sacred a responsibility. They are to hear with a determination to follow
the instruction that all must practice who gain eternal life. Each hearer
should strive to understand each presentation of Bible truth as God’s
message to him, to be received by faith and put into practice in the
daily life. Parents should explain to their children the words spoken
from the pulpit, that they also may understand and have that knowledge
which if put into practice brings abundant grace and peace
[532]
Provide Special Treat for Mealtime—We should not provide for
the Sabbath a more liberal supply or a greater variety of food than for
other days. Instead of this the food should be more simple, and less
should be eaten, in order that the mind may be clear and vigorous to
12
The Review and Herald, June 13, 1882
.
13
Manuscript 3, 1879
.
14
Testimonies For The Church 6:355
.
15
Manuscript 41, 1903
.