by Edward W. Hooker (1794-1875)
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
HT: Chapel Library
The responsibility and calling of parents to prepare their children for life with eternity in view. “What qualifications will best prepare our children to be efficient servants of Christ?” There are many—pertaining to the heart, the mind, and the physical constitution.
First of all, piety. They must fervently love Christ and His kingdom; heartily consecrate themselves to His service; and be ready for any self-denial, sacrifice, or work to which He may call. Eminent piety it must be, counting all things but loss for Christ (Phi 3:8).
Said one, now the wife of an American missionary, “To make and receive visits, exchange friendly salutations, attend to one’s wardrobe, cultivate a garden, read good and entertaining books, and even attend religious meetings for one’s own enjoyment—all this does not satisfy me. I want to be where every arrangement will have unreserved and constant reference to eternity. On missionary ground I expect to find new and unlooked for trials and hindrances; still, it is my choice to be there, and so far from looking upon it as a difficult task to sacrifice my home and country, I feel as if I should flee as a bird to her mountain.”
A piety which thus glows and prays to live, labor, and suffer for Christ is the first and grand qualification to be sought in your child. It is necessary to act efficiently for Christ anywhere, at home or abroad; in an elevated or a lowly sphere. The Lord Jesus has no work adapted to Christians who live at the poor dying rate with which so many are content. It is all work for them that are “strong in the grace which is in Christ Jesus” (2Ti 2:1), and willing and determined to be faithful, “even unto death” (Mat 26:38).
Pages: 24.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Best Preparation for Service
2. Duties of Parents
3. Duties of Those in the Ministry
4. Conclusion