" Their example should include all their precepts. In
this way they both hear and see religion in its living, moving and
breathing form before them. They should thus go in and out before them,
leading them step by step to heaven.
"As a bird each fond endearment tries
To tempt her new-fledged offspring to the skies,
They tried each art, reproved each dull delay,
Allured to brighter worlds, and led the way!"
It is also necessary because of its adaptation to the capacities and
imitative disposition of children. They judge by the organs of sense, and
by their perceptions of truth through externals. Naked abstract truth does
not sufficiently interest them. They are pleased with history, narrative,
illustration, more than with philosophy. They are awake to the first and
receive from them a lasting impression; while the impression made by the
second is dreamy and ephemeral. They will never forget your example because
it is adapted to their taste and capacity. Long after they have forgotten
your precepts upon the duty and privilege of prayer, will they remember
your prayers; and long after the influence of the former has faded, will
that of the latter rule and allure them to God. Hence the necessity of a
Christian home-example. "If any have children or nephews, let them learn
first to show piety at home."
If such, then, are its influence and necessity, we can easily infer the
duty of parents to show their children a Christian example.
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