Here is indeed the great fault of many Christian parents in the present
day. They do not exert that guardian care they should over the social
relations and interests of their children. They are too unscrupulous in
their introduction to the world, and leave them in ignorance of its snares
and deceptions. What results can they look for if they permit their parlor
tables to become burdened with French novels, and their children to mingle
in company whose influence is the most detrimental to the interests of pure
and undefiled religion? Can they reflect upon their daughters for forming
improper attachments and alliances? Can they wonder if their sons become
desperadoes, and ridicule the religion of their parents? No! They permitted
them to dally with the fangs of a viper which found a ready admittance into
their parlor; and upon them, therefore, will rest the responsibility,--yea,
the deep and eternal curse! Woe unto thee, thou unfaithful parent; the
voice of thy children's blood shall send up from the hallowed ground of
home, one loud and penetrating cry to God for vengeance; and thou shalt be
"beaten with many stripes." It will not only cry out against you, but cling
to you!
Guard your parlor, therefore, from the corrupting influence of all immoral
associations. Be not carried away by the pomp and glare of refined and
decorated wickedness. Let not the ornaments and magnificence of mere
outward life divert your attention from those hidden principles which
prompt to action.
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