O parents, parents!

O parents, parents!

(James Smith)

"Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." Ephesians 6:4

Children are keen observers, and are much more powerfully affected by what they see--than by what they hear. It is of little use to talk to them of the gospel--if we do not adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in our lives. Thousands of children are ruined by the conduct of their parents--and many of them professing Christian parents!

O parents, parents! Take care what you are teaching your children by your example. You are always influencing them for good--or evil. You are leading them to Heaven--or Hell. Not a day passes, but you produce impressions--perhaps permanent impressions--either good or bad.

When parents profess to be Christians, and do not carry out Christian principles in their daily lives--can we be surprised if their children turn out ungodly?

I fear that the blood of many children's souls--will be found on their parents' garments! I fear the open criminality of many children--is but a public exposure of the secret inconsistency of many professedly Christian parents!

How much attention is frequently paid to the body--how little to the soul! How much time and expense are spent on nurturing the mind--and how little on the heart! How many educate for time--not for eternity! How many prepare their children to take a wealthy place in the world--how few endeavor to prepare their children to take a place in Heaven!