A Lengthy Questionaire on EGW’s Child Guidance
QUESTIONS FROM, AND ANSWERS TO A STUDY GUIDE, ONE WHICH CONVEYS MANY IMPORTANT POINTS
Here is a link to the ONLINE EDITION OF CHILD GUIDANCE
The White Estate introduction to Child Guidance features two paragraphs by Ellen G. White which encapsulate her thoughts regarding the correct rearing of the next generation of Christian ladies and gentlemen. The first of these warns the reader that much of the blame for the potential exclusion of a child from heaven rests with the parents if they have neglected to provide a firm foundation for their progeny to build the remainder of their lives upon. “Show me the boy, and I will show you the man” is (providentially for many of us) not uniformly true. The transformative and regenerating power of Christ can effect what is currently termed an “extreme makeover.” But this post de facto kind of ameliorative intervention is usually uncomfortable and traumatic to the recipient. Extraordinary things can occur. One might find oneself blinded on the road to Damascus, and unbidden recollections of old sins can continue to prick the conscious (despite our complete, yet unmerited forgiveness by God) like thorns in the flesh. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is the secular, colloquial equivalent of the most famed verse in the Bible that instructs any who may find themselves responsible for the proper upbringing of youth. It is Proverbs 22:6-
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Which “way” should he (or she) go? This direction is indicated by the other 23,144 verses in the Bible. A proper life is one of worship, service, and obedience to the commands of God. The second of the two paragraphs that prefaces “Child Guidance” includes a reference to the spirit of prophecy. This serves to compliment scripture by adapting timeless Biblical strategies to the tactical care and nurture of humanity in the context of their short sojourn on a fallen planet. The world that Ellen G. White inhabited was not a precise match for the less scientifically advanced ancient Near East of the Patriarchs and Prophets (Jesus Himself was a prophet as well). But just as Paul was an “apostle out of season,” so too was Ellen G. White a “prophet out of season.” A hundred years before she was writing, Benjamin Franklin famously proclaimed that “the earth is in its dotage.” Sister White also proclaimed this, but much more vehemently.
The epoch that Ellen G. White labored so assiduously to instruct was an improvement over the licentious and theologically suspect times that Franklin inhabited. Generically referred to as the “Victorian Age,” it may have represented (at least for the middle classes of the Western world) the apogee of propriety and decorum. Some of the admonitions that are assembled into the compilation designated Child Guidance might seem dated to “modern” sensibilities. The writer of these remarks maintains that there is nothing wrong with Sister White’s instructions. If there is a problem, it is with the reader’s “modern” sensibilities. Regular attendance at church, faithful tithes and offerings, and the forsaking of make-up, jewelry, and unclean foods are important, but these are all just superficial signs of conformance with the law of God. They could be likened to the whiting on a sepulcher. Satan, a sagacious media mogul, has managed here at the end of the age (like a roaring lion) to taint the inward parts of many who are ostensibly Christian. An urgent need to remedy this regrettable increase in hypocrisy serves to enhance, rather than to marginalize the relevance of Ellen G. White’s instructions and insights. They all serve as antidotes to the poisonous atmosphere of the Twenty-first Century. What are your kids watching? What are they listening to? And while we are on the topic, what are you watching and listening to?
Note: all answers to the following questions regarding the answerer’s own progeny will based upon a hypothetical “perfect child,” and therefore express a perfect intent. As no parent or teacher is perfect, however, the realization of these perfect intentions (should the opportunity present itself) will be thwarted by reality. Perfection remains, nevertheless, an acceptable goal for everyone. The inevitable frustration of this goal will present many opportunities for the exercise of patience and forgiveness.
Section 1- Home- the First School
Read pages 13-28.
Check your knowledge:
Where is the child’s first school located? (17:1) The home (be it ever so humble).
Who are to be his first teachers? (17:1) The parent(s) are the child’s first teacher.
What important lifelong lessons is the child to learn above all others? (17:1) (a.) respect (b.) obedience (c.) reverence (d.) self-control
For what is the home a training school? (17:3) The home is a preface to a life of service and ministry, and the inculcation of kindness, patience, and thoughtfulness (see below) are prerequisites. The attribute of “pettishness” in errant youth is rebuked by Ellen G. White. Here is the original definition of pettishness (a word that is not much used at present, but one that is descriptive of a growing demographic)- “a characteristic habit of a ‘pet’ or indulged and spoiled child.”
Complete: “Teach your children to be kind and patient and thoughtful of others. (17:3)
If parents neglect this home training, they neglect a religious duty. (18:3)
On whose work do schoolteachers build? (19:2) In 1882 Ellen G. White wrote in the Review and Herald that parents should conduct a “home school” prior to entry into the second-grade. 135 years later, many conscientious parents (ones who may not be able to afford a private Christian education for their children) still do have a home school. In 1882, the public schools were still a relatively safe (but far from perfect) place to consign your offspring. But nowadays (as the writer’s mother often says), “That was then, and this is now!”
When should parents begin preparation for the training of their children? (21:2) The admonition to start preparing “before the birth of the child.” This concept is not elaborated on, as it a literary device. Many mothers do sing to their children while they are still in the womb, however. Ellen G. White rather seems to infer that the future tutelage of one’s children is predicated upon the adoption of good characteristics by the potential tutors. They must set a good example, for the children will naturally seek to mimic them (for better or worse).
What dual purpose should be the objective of this parental training? (21:3) The realm of the temporal world is seceded by that of eternal world. Although the short period we spend in the flesh is insignificant when compared to the eternities of the afterlife, it is of immense importance due to its being the determinant as to whether or not one manages to enjoy an afterlife. “Happiness” and “usefulness” are conjoined in a single sentence by Ellen G. White with regard the terrestrial segment of our existence. Useless people can only experience “happiness” through unwholesome and unproductive substances and practices that are geared toward self-gratification alone, and which become a stumbling block in the path to eternal life.
What two things are parents to seek to secure for their children? (22:0) [21:5] One– “sound bodies,” and Two– “sound minds.”
What prayer are we to offer for our children? (22:2) Since we are unable to entirely avoid evil in this world, we are to pray that our offspring will be armored by God so that they may resist it. The Lord’s Prayer serves well as a defense, as it asks our Father to “…lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”
Complete: “God cannot keep children from evil if the parents do not cooperate with Him.” (22:2) Europeans of the late Middle Ages had a saying, “City air is free air.” But even as long ago as the era of Aesop and his fables, a country mouse discovered after a visit to his urban-dwelling cousin that eating one’s “bread in peace” was preferable to living in a war zone. The rural “peasant” of the Middle Ages frequently moved to the city to take advantage of the economic opportunities that were available therein. But not everyone thrived, for Satan’s world is an inequitable one. Cities soon incorporated enormous slums. World-class cities like London and New York were home to many poor people. Lacking opportunities, the inhabits made (and still do make) their own opportunities through criminal activity.
Why did John the Baptist’s parents move to the country? (23:1) This ostensible answer to this question, “Because the country is a much more salubrious environment to raise a child in” is an obvious one. A peripheral, but intriguing question would be one concerned with the source of Ellen G. Whites information about the rural exodus of John’s parents. Is this an instance of the Spirit of Prophecy, or of a citation by the author of some relatively obscure scholarly treatise? Many believe that John was a member of the Qumran community (Essenes), a group that eschewed city-life. A move to the country by Zacharias and Elizabeth and family can only be deduced (but not affirmed) from Luke 1:80- “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.” Here is a quote from a Cambridge University commentary- “Zacharias and Elizabeth, being aged, must have early left John an orphan, and his desert life began with his boyish years. Further, the habits of Orientals are exceedingly stationary, and when once settled it is only on the rarest occasions that they leave their homes.” The last sentence may represent the attempt by some modern scholar to refute a pre-existing assertion by another academic. This is how tenured careers in academia are preserved. For the moment, however, the mystery of Ellen G. White’s source will remain unsolved.
What is the most sacred work of parents? (23:3) The training of children is most sacred.
Complete: “You are to teach your little ones to know Christ.” (23:4)
What disciplinary training does Christ want children to receive at home? (24:0) [23:4] (a.) industry (b.) neatness (c.) order
What terrible accusation is laid against careless parents? (24:1) “Sin will lie at the door!” [a paraphrase of Genesis 4:7, KJV]
Complete:
“They [parents] are to be very tender and very guarded in their speech.” (24:2)
“They are to be kind and courteous to each other.” (24:2)
They are “to bring into the home a pleasant, wholesome atmosphere.” (24:2)
“They [parents] should not differ in the presence of their children.” (24:2)
Why is the mother, of necessity, the special instructor of her children? (24:3) Mothers (especially during the infancy of the child) spend more time with their child than anyone else. This was generally more prevalent (at least in the United States) in 1890 when Ellen G. White made this observation, but the necessity for many mothers to earn an income has had the unfortunate side-effect of consigning their children to daycare facilities, even a few short months after their birth.
How can parents best teach respect and obedience? (24:4) (a.) by word (b.) by action
What will never pass inspection in the judgment? (25:1) Haphazard work in the home. This kind of sloppiness is distinguished by a neglect to “…keep the way of the Lord.” This quote by Ellen G. White deserves to be presented in its full context, as it is extremely relevant to domestic affairs. It is from Genesis 18:19- “For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.” The ultimate responsibility for a disorderly household lies with the head of the household.
As soon as a child can form an idea, what is to begin? (26:2) Their education
What can a child learn from its parents even before its reason fully develops? (27:0) a right spirit
When only are parents prepared to be the teachers of their children? (27:1) [This question, which is somewhat unclear, can only be addressed by replicating all of 27:1 or by glossing this section by quoting Matthew 7:3- “And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?” The teaching methods revealed in 24:4 (and Question 20 of this section) are described as words and actions. Here is an extra-scriptural maxim- “Sometimes actions speak louder than words.” A secular maxim that has been ironically created to deal with unrepentant parental failure is this one- “Do as I say, not as I do!”
Why is proper habit formation vital in infancy and early childhood? (27:3) A secular proverb quoted by the writer/answerer of these remarks in his introduction of this Study Guide goes “Show me the boy, and I will show you the man.” Longstanding bad habits, especially those acquired early in life, are pernicious and resistant to extermination. One is better off not acquiring them in the first place. If you do not know what your adolescent is doing at any given moment, the possibility exists that they have either just succumbed, are currently succumbing, or are just about to succumb to temptation!
Why should the firstborn child be trained with the greatest of care? (27:4) He (or she) will educate the rest.
Rate your home as a school: “A+ …resource material in abundance!”
Where does it rate the highest? Textbooks
Where does it rate the lowest? Physical plant
Discuss with others (“Others” means your companion, other relatives, neighbors, church members, or the Home and School study group):
Name two ways light has been shining “so that none need err in regard to their duty.” (13:2) These two sources of light are the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy. The section of this Study Guide titled “To the Reader” affirms that prophecy serves to adapt the Bible’s “strategic” vision (although the Bible is certainly not lacking in plenty of specific directives) to the “tactical” needs of living day to day in a chaotic world which grows more chaotic each day. This is entropy.
What is true education? (Book learning? Technical? Professional? Character?) A short discourse on this topic was provided by the writer in another MIT project on Education. Ellen G. White observed that Jesus did not often call rich and erudite people (though there were some exceptions) to be part of His immediate circle. A Christ-like character will stand one in good stead whatever their educational attainments may be. Too often those whom society might esteem to be “as wise a serpent” also manifest the kind of malevolent temperaments that natural serpents are unfairly accused of displaying. Genuine snakes would like to kill you, and then eat you afterwards (assuming you can fit in their mouths), but they will not lie to you beforehand by stating that they do not intend to harm you, and only have your best interests at heart. As far as the topic of specialization in education goes, one would do well to follow both these courses, should it be practicable- (1) Learn a little about a lot. (2) Learn a lot about a little.
Why is the “school in the home” so important to the child? (17:1) It is initially in the context of the home that the child learns the difference between good and evil. Genesis 3:22-23 reads in part “…Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever: Therefore the Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken.” First by actions, and subsequently (after the child can comprehend speech) by both words and actions parents must inculcate a sense of right and wrong into their sacred charges. Once a knowledge of good and evil has been acquired by the pupil they will enjoy the awesome privilege and responsibility to choose this day whom they will serve. Unfortunately, for fallen mankind the default selection is invariably evil. Children must learn how to be good, for this attribute does not occur naturally. The techniques whereby this knowledge can be imparted is the subject of Ellen G. White’s Child Guidance.
What four subjects are to be taught in this developing process? (17:1) This is a restatement of question I-3 of the Study Guide. The subjects are (a.) respect (b.) obedience (c.) reverence (d.) self-control.
We owe everyone respect, for they are all (as are we ourselves) created in the image of God. To consider another person as being unworthy of respect is to usurp God’s exclusive prerogative to render judgement, for He alone can see into the heart, and into the future.
We all owe unquestioning obedience to God, and until we reach the “age of discretion” we owe obedience to God’s regents on earth; our parents. We are also obliged to obey “duly constituted” temporal authorities. It is only when these authorities issue directives that are contrary to God’s law that we are suffered by God to operate independently of these directives.
The concept of reverence is almost exclusively associated with the concept of deity and worship, but a lesser degree of reverence is also due to parents and selected others [Adventists are led by “pastors,” and not “reverends,” for it is the holy office of church leadership that is sacred, and not the occupant thereof]. Worship as a component of reverence is the exclusive domain of God alone. Sorry, Elvis!
The concept of self-control is what lies at the heart of civilization. Adhering to the commandments of God will automatically serve to keep you under self-control. An absence of this control, even for an instant, can lead to serious consequences. Emotions are a blessing and a curse, for while the urgings of the heart can impel one to instantaneously engage in either base or noble acts, the moment-to-moment guidance of your life should be primarily directed by your head. This head should remain cool at all times!
Why should parents know about physiology, anatomy, and the laws of health? Every parent serves at times as a “first responder.” A working knowledge of first-aid would constitute the primary reason that they should need to be familiar with the temples of our bodies. A secondary reason is inextricably linked to the first, for “preventative maintenance” through the agencies of exercise, good nutrition, and regular check-ups can avert most illnesses. This knowledge may not prevent playground or sports-related injuries, however. Familiarity with physiology might come in handy after you have applied a splint and then dialed 911: “My child has a monteggia fracture dislocation!” “Speak English, please,” the 911 operator may reply.
When can parents say, “My educating days are over”? The task of education is much more than the impartation of raw data. The older generation must share the accumulated wisdom of their experience with the younger generation. For so long as the earth endures, the old will remain wiser than the young, and the experienced will always be obliged to educate those who are ordained (should the Lord delay His return) to quickly follow in their footsteps.
An alternate interpretation of this question might be, “When is my own education completed?” The answer to this depends on whether the parent will spend eternity in heaven or not. If they do, then their education will never end. Socrates was no Christian, but he was discovered to be reading a book just before he was to be executed. He wanted to learn a few more things before he died. Being without the law of the true God, he may have been a law unto himself.
Why cannot parents wait and leave child training to schoolteachers? The importance of early intervention between one’s child and his or her natural predilections is repeatedly stated by Ellen G. White. Section 23:4 of Child Guidance emphasizes that a knowledge of Christ is fundamental part (a prerequisite, in fact) of the domestic curriculum. Section 23:4 of Child Guidance comes from a 1900 article in the Review and Herald. In 1900 practically every public schoolchild in the United States of America would continue to hear about God, and even pray to God when they started to attend classes in public schools. But in this “modern” era (unless you are blessed to be able to afford to send your children to a Christian academy) your child will not be exposed to much Christian subject matter in public institutions. If your child must be exposed to public education, an early grounding in God’s word is entirely your responsibility.
Why such emphasis on careful training of our firstborn? (27:4) The description by Ellen G. White of the special role that the firstborn plays in the guidance of any siblings that might be subsequently born (27:4) is still significant. It was even more significant at the time that she was writing, back in 1899. In bygone days, most American families were farmers. On the farm, “many hands make light work.” Families of farmers were always large ones, even well into the Twentieth Century. The writer’s paternal grandmother had 11 sisters and one brother. Adventist author and evangelist Dr. Richard Tottress had 8 brothers and 9 sisters. With a total of 18 children in a family, a sizable percentage of these would be competent to not only till the back forty, but to assist with the development and supervision of their younger siblings [Dr. Tottress, although the eldest member of his own family, was providentially enabled to absent himself from farm-work, thanks to his education].
How do the principles laid down in this lesson fit with Proverbs 22:6? This Proverb can be considered to be the leitmotif of the collection of Ellen G. White’s thoughts and revelations that is titled Child Guidance. Here it is, once again-
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Many Bible commentators acknowledge this to be generally true, but admit that some extraordinary or cataclysmic event could conceivably cause the “apple to fall far from the tree,” or even cause the “leopard to change its spots” (some extraordinary event such as being blinded on the road to Damascus, for example).
Think on these things:
Will it be my privilege to have the gate of heaven thrown open to me and my children? (13:1) The keynote paragraph for Child Guidance selected by the Board of Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate, Inc. is the subject of this first question, and also the next two or three questions in this Study Guide. The crux of this topic is should lie in the forefront of very human being’s conscious. Ellen G. White cites the specific instance of neglecting to properly form the good Christian character of those that providence has made us responsible for as being grounds not only for our child’s exclusion from eternity, but of our own exclusion as well. Any failure to do the Lord’s will is technically capable of excluding us from heaven, for just one poisonous sin is sufficient to taint the broth. But God bestows His grace upon us, and will pardon our unintentional shortcomings. He will consider the “big picture” when it comes to admitting us to the hereafter. What is a good way to ensure our eternal life? We should all do our duty! What is this duty? Ecclesiastes 12:13 spells this out for us in manner that is easy to understand-
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. [this verse will reappear at the end of this study guide]
If so [if we, and/or our children are admitted to heaven], what have I done for my children? (13:1) The faithful steward does not neglect to cause the increase of the treasure that is in their safekeeping. Not only will this treasure (our children) be securely deposited in the First Bank of Beulah-land in consequence of our careful oversight, but we ourselves will stand a much better chance of coming to roost …where neither moth nor rust destroy, and where thieves do not break in nor steal. (Matthew 6:20)
If the gate is closed and a hand raised to keep me from entering, what will the voice say I have neglected? (13:1) If you are a child who is denied entry, it may well be because you “have not learned to do the will of God” [please read Ecclesiastes 12:13 again]. If you are a parent or leader to whom the Pearly Gates will not open, it may be because you have neglected the responsibilities God has placed on you.
Will God accept church activities or offerings as a substitute for neglecting my own children? The first section of Child Guidance does not appear to directly answer this question, but an answer may be easily inferred- “No! Of course not! What kind of ridiculous question is that? What could you possibly be thinking by even asking a question like that in the first place?”
How can I answer the questions on page 25, paragraph 2?
Question #1- Will parents review their work in the educating and training of their children, and consider whether they have done their whole duty in hope and faith that these children may be a crown of rejoicing in the day of the Lord Jesus? This question (conceivably a rhetorical one) by Ellen G. White would seem to indicate that a written record be kept of the manner and methods whereby the child is instructed and corrected. This would certainly serve to facilitate any review process. Difficulties that the child may be experiencing in some areas of their lives could be identified and earmarked for additional attention by the home educator. This approach would be a more scientific one than simply relying on memory alone. Results should also be kept track of with the same level of assiduousness whereby pencil marks on a wall keep track of a child’s physical growth.
Question #2- Have they so labored for the welfare of their children that Jesus can look down from heaven and by the gift of His Spirit sanctify their efforts? Again, a comprehensive “paper trail” would reliably indicate whether the training process was effective enough to merit the objective approval of mankind alone, as judged by man’s standards. Both quantity and quality are subject to analysis. The approval of Jesus may be hoped for, and prayed for, and energetically worked for, but an answer to Question #2 can only come from Christ Himself.
How nearly am I as a father measuring up to the pattern laid down for me? A partial citation of Genesis 18:19 by Ellen G. White (25:1) in Child Guidance is a reference to Abraham as being a primordial “pattern laid down” for all subsequent fathers to emulate. He was a man of faith, and was also a man of works; both a “doer,” and a “hearer.” A reference found on page 20 od Child Guidance has been lifted from page 399 of The Ministry of Healing. It briefly notes the good influences of Christ’s temporal father, Joseph. The Bible refers to Jesus as the “carpenter’s son,” so [despite the lack of a direct statement declaring this fact in Scripture] the spirit of prophecy need not go too far out on a limb in order to reveal that Jesus “…learned a trade, and with His own hands worked in the carpenter’s shop with Joseph.” Teaching one’s progeny a means whereby they may earn their bread is a wonderful pattern to lay down.
Am I as a mother fulfilling my greatest mission in life- to my children? This question is the double-X chromosome version of the preceding question. Scripture contains many “patterns” for the specific duties and obligations of women. An extensive “pattern” (more like a poem, actually) is found in the last of the chapters of Proverbs, and is ascribed to Lemuel. Verse 28 discloses this about a hypothetical model woman who fits this admirable pattern- “Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.”
Name one way I as the (husband, wife, son, daughter) can make my home today a better school. I can strive to live in conformance with the “pattern” established by Ecclesiastes 12:13. This will be replicated yet again, thereby concluding the whole matter…
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man
Section II- Methods and Textbooks
Read pages 31-60.
Check your knowledge:
Complete: “Prepare the way for your child to obey your commands cheerfully.” (31:1)
Who will educate your children if you do not? (31:1) Herr Professor Satan
Complete: “A gentle manner tends to quiet the nerves of the little one.” (32:1)
Why should parents study, test, compare others’ methods with their own? (32:2) The methods of others should not be adopted indiscriminately, but should be weighed in the balance lest they be found wanting. There are many ostensibly reasonable assertions floating around that are, in truth, merely crackpot theoies.
What three things is every mother to do with her children? (33:4) (a) Reason with them (b) Correct their errors (c) Teach them the right way
Children should be first taught from what book? (34:1) The metaphorical Book of Nature
Complete: “There is health and happiness for him in the study of nature.” (34:4)
Complete: “Too much talk will lead them [children] to loathe even spiritual instruction.” (35:0)
Where are children to be taught to find evidences of God’s care for us and of His interest in our welfare and happiness? (35:1) Children need to Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. [Luke 12:27] …& etcetera!
By giving children something to do with hands and minds we advance them in physical and mental attainments. (36:0)
Complete: “As soon as strength and reasoning power are sufficiently developed, he [the child] should be given duties to perform in the home.” (36:1)
What four things are children to be taught not to do? (37:3) (a) To come as they please (b) To go as they please (c) To dress as they please (d) To act as they please
Why are children often bold, forward, and impertinent? (38:0) Their parents enlist them to parade their precocious wisdom before visitors, and then make a big fuss over the wisdom of their quips (much as did the late Art Linkletter did on his long-running television show).
Complete: “[…the] The child must be taught to control himself. The will must be trained to obey the dictates of reason and conscience.” (39:2)
What is to be made the rule of life in child training? (41:1) The Word of God (the Bible)
What is to be made a pleasant theme in the family circle? (42:1) The love of God
What will banish fear in a timid child? (42:2) A sense of God’s presence
Complete: “The book of nature . . . afforded an exhaustless source of instruction and delight.” (45:4)
Besides revealing God, of what does the book of nature constantly warn us? (46:1) Nature became corrupt after the fall of man. As Tennyson writes, she is “red in tooth and claw.”
In what may children be taught to see Christ? (46:4, 47:0) In Holy writ and in natural objects such as lilies (to be considered), vines (to be abided in), roses, the sun, the stars, etc. Acoustically considered, Christ (or a romantic symbol for Him) may be discerned in the song of birds, in the sound of the wind blowing through the trees (whispering Louise, perhaps), the rolling thunder (How Great Thou Art!), and “the music of the seas,” writes Ellen G. White.
What should be the schoolroom for little children? (48:1) The fields and hills; “nature’s audience chamber.” Note: an audience chamber is where one parlayed with royalty back when royalty still called most of the shots in most countries (1877, for example, the year that Ellen G. White composed this analogy in an article for The Signs of the Times).
How and where are little children to be free to play? (48:3) Little children should be “free like the lambs, to play in the sweet, fresh sunlight,” writes Ellen G. White, perhaps “To see a World in a Grain of Sand, And a Heaven in a Wild Flower, Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand, And Eternity in an hour,” writes William Blake.
What will the study of nature do for the mind? (49:2) The contemplation of nature will engender deep thought, and serve to stretch the imagination of the child (or even an adult who has managed to maintain their child-like awe as they behold first-hand God’s creation). Ellen G. White alludes (not for the first or last time) to the rubbish (“fiction”) that was, and continues to be targeted toward young readers. This unwholesome fodder currently manifests itself primarily as bad television, bad movies, and very bad video games.
What are we to discern in God’s created works? (54:1) His love, and His character.
From the ant and the bee we may learn a lesson of? (59:1, 2) Faithfulness, Industry, Patience, Order, and Self-motivation (to name but a few).
Rate your methods of teaching: “Good lectures. Lousy labs.”
My most effective method is Trying to explain a concept at a manner that the pupil can easily understand.
My least effective method is Relying principally upon words (lectures), rather than instructive demonstrations (lab work) to communicate ideas.
Discuss with others:
What is meant by “Prepare the way for your child to obey your commands cheerfully”? (31:1) You should explain the reasons behind any command that you might issue to your young charges. One should neither over-indulge nor pander to a child, but there is some wisdom in J.D. Salinger’s assertion that we should “treat children as if they were honored guests in our home.” Elsewhere in her writings, Ellen G. White reveals that we are not to “break the will” of the child, as the virtue of being capable of independent thought and action will certainly prove to be a future necessity when dealing with the pervasive and inescapable influences of Satan.
Discuss how to educate for the “restful spirit” and “loving heart” development. (31:2) The passage by Ellen G. White that the guardians of her legacy have chosen to include on page 32 of Child Guidance are a restatement, for the purpose of instilling correct maternal pedagogical techniques, of Paul’s admonition to Christians of all age groups that may be found in Philippians 4:8- “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
How does the fretful, impatient mother, nurse, or babysitter affect the child? (32:1) Fretfulness begets peevishness. Like the term “pettishness,” the word “peevishness” is slightly outdated. Here, therefore, is the definition of peevishness- “cross, querulous, or fretful, as from vexation or discontent: a peevish youngster. 2. showing annoyance, irritation, or bad mood.” A display of fretfulness and impatience by the caregiver could prove to be infectious, for the young will joyfully emulate the behavior of their elders, both for better or for worse.
How are we to teach little children to do independent thinking? (35:1) Ellen G. White reveals that it more beneficial to lead a child to knowledge through a “question-and-answer” process (known in some circles as the “Socratic Method”), rather than to simply dryly state bare facts to them. The exercise of their own developing thought processes will blaze new neural pathways in their young brains. A similar technique, when utilized for elderly persons, can forestall the onset of dementia (according to some authorities on this subject).
How early in life shall children be taught to work? (36:1) “As soon as strength and reasoning power are developed…” There is “…joy in service, and the sacrifice for others” as noted by the author in Ministry of Healing. Ellen G. White lauds the wholesome effects of allowing the child to help lighten the burden of domestic, and possibly light agricultural endeavor. Written in 1905, these excerpts predate the eventual passage of federal laws in the United States (1938’s Fair Labor Standards Act) that definitively regulated the use of child labor for wages. The salutary effect of a reasonable amount of farm-work that Ellen G. White doubtlessly envisioned was abused (and continues to be abused) by parents and guardians, however. The exception for agricultural work in current child-labor laws constitutes a loophole big enough to drive a phalanx of tractors through. Children continue to be exploited for gain in American fields.
What does the performance of everyday duties have to do with character development? (37:1) The good work-habits that will eventually contribute to the survival of the child are best instilled at an early age. Evil consequences will assuredly result if children are allowed to indulge their natural predilection for self-indulgent and pointless activity. Even prosperous families must delegate chores to the youngest members (such as regularly testing and adjusting the chlorine level of the water in the swimming pool, for example; a vain autobiographical reference by and about the writer/answerer of these remarks).
Why is special care needed in training talented children? (37:3) Ellen G. White cautioned parents in an 1875 article published in Signs of the Times that they would do well to not treat exceptional children in an exceptional manner. They might be spoiled thereby. Chinese families that were limited by law to produce a single offspring were reported to all be harboring “spoiled brats,” as these offspring were all considered to be “exceptional.” The personal attractions that Joseph held for his father Isaac resulted in the bestowal of the famous “coat of many colors.” This indulgence resulted in vanity in the son, and jealously in the lesser siblings. God ultimately used this instance of human folly for His higher purposes, however.
Discuss the matter of praising children, showing them off, flattering them. (37:4, 38:0) The discussion will be prefaced by replicating the answer to a preceding question (#13, above)- “They parents enlist them [the children] to parade their precocious wisdom before visitors, and make a big fuss over the wisdom of their quips.” Here is another literary reference- the inordinately precocious (unbelievably so) young members of the Glass family and their associates that J.D. Salinger describes in a series of his short-stories were so accomplished that the author creates a scenario where one of these, infinitely disgusted with the perfection of another, throws a rock at the latter, thereby marring the target’s perfection. The victim of this sabotage was so attuned to the universe that they not only failed to resent the attack, but wholeheartedly agreed that it was a just act.
How are God’s two books (nature and the Bible) related in child training? An illustration that the writer/answerer of these questions utilized for a questionnaire on another Ellen G. White compilation, Education will be recycled in an effort to tie the Holy Bible to Creation (aka “nature”). A superficial observance of nature is enough to communicate (even to a child) the complexity and harmony of the world. Science plumbs far beneath the surface of Creation, and discovers many additional layers of harmonious complexity. Ironically, the more that scientist discover, the more prone they are to exclude the Creator from Creation. God is very capable, and very profound, and could easily produce a system as complex as the universe in six days. He could even throw in a few “red herrings,” so that His character be not be readily apparent to the “wise of the world.” But the presence of God permeates Creation, and children (as well as Christians and romanticists) will perceive this intuitively. The “increase in knowledge” that marks the end of history is exceeds the capabilities any single human being’s grasp. Some humans (many of whom wear lab coats, or hold professorships) presume that God Himself must be incapable of keeping track of it all. But is anything too hard for God? The answer is a resounding “no,” and this important information, as well as thousands of other pertinent bits and bytes of data may be found between the covers of the Bible. The Bible is the master outline of reality, and serves well to position within an over-arching framework any future inquiries and subsequent answers that a young person might encounter throughout their lifetime. It is therefore of paramount importance that Scripture be instilled (even drilled) into the young.
Discuss: Seeing God in nature (beware of pantheism). Seeing God’s footprints. Ellen G. White produced the majority of her writings at the tail-end of what is styled the “Romantic” era. The “cult” of nature was rampant, and pervasive to the point where sensitive people were prone to attach deity (in the manner of the Hindus) to every object they came across. Nature is indisputably magnificent, but one never confuse Creation with the Creator Himself (any more than one should confuse the sinner, for whom Christ died, with his sins). Edifying descriptions of the natural realm abound in the writings of Ellen G. White, but this is indicative of a nearly ubiquitous literary style at the time of her writing. It is said that no one ever climbed a mountain merely to enjoy the view from the top until the beginning of the Romantic Age. It represented a spiritual reaction to the detached and cerebral accent on reason (often capitalized as “Reason”) that marked the preceding Age of Enlightenment. It was a positive time for devotees of the Lord, and this new focus on spiritual concerns resulted in the conversion of many to Christianity, as well as the formation of many new denominations (including the Seventh-day Adventist Church). But some carried the new focus on divinity well beyond the boundary stones of Christianity as demarked by the Bible. For further research, one may choose to discover the reason for the inclusion within this question of the parenthetical qualification “beware of pantheism.” In the context of the history of the Seventh-day Adventist denomination this research will lead you directly to pantheistic Dr. John Harvey Kellogg.
Discuss the mental, physical, moral, and spiritual benefits of nature study. Mentally, the contemplation of nature is stimulating, fascinating, and instructive. The deeper you go, the more you can learn. To access the natural world, it is infinitely preferable to take a walk amidst it, rather than to catch a fleeting glimpse of it from a speeding automobile or to watch a documentary about it on PBS. This physical proximity requires physical exertion, so exercise is a byproduct of personally experiencing the great outdoors. From a moral standpoint, Ellen G. White notes that time spent outdoors contributes not only to health, but to happiness as well. A happy person is not covetous. Satisfied by their proxy ownership of the planet, they will not attempt to augment this enormous benefice by stealing your money, or your cellphone (this sentence is a little facetious, but not entirely inapplicable). The answer to the previous question, #10 covers the potentially dangerous subject of “the spiritual benefits of nature study.” Nature is a work of art, created by a great (in fact, the greatest) artist, but be mindful that you not give worship to the curiously wrought and well-graven image called planet earth!
Rightly understood, “the world is a lesson book, life a school.” (55:3) A narrow, yet common definition of “nature” would be the “great outdoors,” inclusive of plants and animals and the variegated landscapes of earth. When Ellen G. White refers to the world at large as a “lesson book” she is expanding the definition of “nature” to include every aspect of God’s visible and tangible Creation. The prestigious scientific journal Nature is similarly inclusive. Lovers of birds and bees and flowers and trees would be better served by reading Audubon Magazine, rather than Nature. But if you desire a university-level comprehension of God’s capabilities (but who can know Him, but through a glass darkly?) then you must enlarge your borders to include every aspect and facet of the world. Francis Bacon once famously stated, “I confess that I have as vast contemplative ends, as I have moderate civil ends: for I have taken all knowledge to be my province…” He never caught up to God! God alone is omniscient, but the more you know, the more you know about Him. The acquisition of knowledge, however, is unimportant relative to the acquisition of salvation.
Think on these things:
Do I prepare the way for my child to obey cheerfully? Treating a child with respect and consideration lays the groundwork for a reciprocation of these courtesies. You can best enlist their sympathies and ensure their cooperation by talking to them, rather than just talking at them. Require obedience from them, but do not seek to manipulate them as if they were marionettes. If you do, then when the puppet-strings (or perhaps apron-strings) get cut, these puppet and apron strings will lie lifeless on the floor of the stage, and they will remain unmotivated, and incapable of motivating themselves.
How much time do I allow Satan to teach my child? There is no quantity associated with the pseudo-number zero. Satan should be allowed zero time for teaching his nefarious ways to your child. The Amish have a tradition of letting their younger members sow their wild oats, praying that a period of exposure to the wickedness of the world will inoculate them against dedicating the remainder of their lives to Satan. This is not a good idea! Not good at all!
Do I talk too much? I talk too much about myself, and not enough about God. Wise people, including Solomon observe that those who would wish to acquire a reputation for wisdom should say very little; therefore the wisest of men is he who says nothing at all (this may be taking this technique a bit far, however). If you must speak, pattern yourself after the fictional talking horse, Mr. Ed- “Mr. Ed will never speak unless he has something to say.” On a more pragmatic note, we should all follow the advice that Paul offers his young friend Timothy- “…be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” [First Timothy 4:12]
Do I have the two attributes of kindliness and affection that are to attend the teaching of my child? (33:1) Christ offered a new commandment before He temporarily departed this earth- “…That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.“ [John 13:34] All people should be treated with kindliness and affection. Children are people. Ergo- Children should be treated with kindliness and affection [I think the last three sentences constitute what is known as a logical “syllogism”]. If I do not possess the attributes of kindliness and affection, then I am in violation of a direct command from Jesus to be kind and affectionate.
Why should I never scold my child? (33:3) “Spare the rod [primarily a metaphorical rod, if you please] and spoil the child.” If you are a Christian, God Himself will correct you, for Hebrews 12:6 states this fact- “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.” Again, all of this talk about rods and scourges is predominately metaphorical. An open-handed smack or two on the bottom is all that the parent (and the parent, or possibly grandparents alone are permitted to do this) needs to employ in the way of corporeal punishment, and only to incorrigible kids (as a last resort, writes Ellen G. White). Verbal chastisement (aka “scolding”) should be performed in a controlled and dispassionate manner. One need not raise their voice to a child, and anger has no place in the disciplinary process. Righteous indignation, combined with expressions of deep disappointment should sufficiently undergird the correction of an errant child.
What spirit must pervade my home if it is to develop in my child? (36:1) The “spirit of true ministry” must pervade the home. It may be facetious to declare that “charity begins at home,” but the spirit of true ministry, if it is indeed true, will subsequently spill beyond the confines of the home very quickly. The process of forming a Christian character that starts in the home must overflow so that it may “go unto the uttermost parts of the earth” [Acts 1:8].
On what day of the week should I especially behold God in nature? (55:1) Saturday, aka the seventh day, aka the Sabbath is a wonderful opportunity to contemplate firsthand the glory of God’s creation. This section of Child Guidance exalts the Sabbath as a memorial of creation, but does not (as the question insinuates) recommend an elevated dedication to viewing nature upon the Sabbath. But neither does it advise against this.
Do the beauties of nature remind me of my heavenly home? With the exception of rattlesnakes and poison ivy, heaven will be much like earth regarding its natural wonders. The built environment of heaven will also prove (should one be counted worthy to behold it) exceptional, as it is now being designed by Jesus Himself (“I go to prepare a place for you…).
Name one lesson I have learned from the book of nature today. Natural affection is not confined to humanity, but can cross species. Dogs are known for their loyalty and affection, Cats are generally perceived to be less friendly, but a close association with a cat will prove this perception to be untrue. God created cats specifically to ward off absolute loneliness for those who often find themselves alone, yet are too lethargic to dedicate time and energy to the walking and washing of a dog.
Section III- Teachers Adequately Trained
Read pages 63-76.
Check your knowledge:
Complete: Above every other teacher, the mother should be qualified to use her training opportunities the best account. (63:1)
Whose influence in education is most potent and far-reaching? (63:1) Despite the fact that the art of motherhood is regrettably unsystematic, the mother is by far the most influential individual in the history of a child’s development.
Of what three things are some parents ignorant? (63:2) (a) physical development (b) mental development (c) and spiritual development
For what two persons is thorough preparation for child training most urgent? (63:3) (a) Father (b) Mother
Before marriage, with what subjects should men and women acquaint themselves? (63:3, 64:0) (a) physiology (b) hygiene (c) prenatal influences (d) heredity (e) sanitation (f) dress (g) exercise (h) treatment of disease (i) laws of mental development (j) moral training
When only will education accomplish its goal? (64:1) When parents are better trained and equipped to discharge their child-rearing obligations, since most everyone is an amateur at present, ruling in an lackadaisical and improvisatorial manner.
Complete: “To assume the responsibilities of parenthood without such a preparation is a sin.” (64:2)
For what must parents give account? (64:4) As mentioned in the introductory paragraph of Child Guidance, the (potentially) eternal soul of the child is at stake, as are the parents’ souls as well. To apply a statement by Peter to this circumstance, how can we “neglect so great [a] salvation…?”
From what can there be no “sinless swerving”? (66:1) God-given rules (also called “commandments”) for parents should be strictly adhered to– “Turn neither to the left nor the right” (do not “swerve”) when implementing these directives from God. They are orders, not suggestions!
What law must always be on parents’ lips? (66 [:2]) The law of “love and kindness.”
What will our children grow up to do when we make God’s will ours? (66:3) Christians
Complete: “Parents should now do everything in their power to redeem their neglect and place their children where they will be under the very best influence.” (66:4, 67:0)
What will we incur if we trifle with the training of our children? (67:2) Parents are obliged to properly instruct the children in the “Way of the Lord.” To fail to do this will incur “the displeasure of God.” This last phrase is an example of literary understatement, a nice euphemism for “the wrath of God,” an iron fist concealed by a velvet glove!
Complete: “Every woman should develop a well-balanced mind and pure character.” (67:5)
What are we diligently to guard? our tongue (words) Overcome what? anger and impatience (68:1)
What are we now to do if we thus far have been wrong in our child training? (69:2) We must reform our customs and habits (to bear fruits meet for repentance). Once having placed our hands upon the plow handles, we must keep our furrows straight (no “swerving”), and resist looking back (a concept which the Bible also likens to a dog returning to its vomit).
Of what three things is this our day? (69:4) (a) trust (b) responsibility (c) opportunity
What does service to self and to the world do to mothers? (71:1) Ellen White writes that this service demands an accompanying advancement in the level of her job performance, but it is the mother or parent who inaugurates this process of advancement, and not (as the question implies) merely engaging the process itself that is the cause of advancement.
Complete: “Parents have not yet aroused to understand the amazing power of Christian culture.” (72:4)
To escape household drudgery, what must a mother do? (73:4) (a) read (b) be a good helpmate (c) talk to, and try to positively influence her children (d) pray (e) study the Word of God (f) Introduce your children to the wonders of the natural world
Complete: “You need the variety, the stir, the earnest effort, the cultivation of the willpower, that this life brings.” (74:3)
When does Satan sow the seeds of death in the hearts of our children? (75:2) “While they sleep in Godless indifference,” writes Ellen G. White. She does not mean that Satan enters their minds as they are sleeping. “Sleep” is a common metaphor (especially among Romanticists) for indifference or neglect. Ignorance of God is the natural condition of an untrained child, and they can therefore be considered (in a poetic way) to be fast “asleep.”
Is it the business of others how we train our children? (75:3) “It takes a village to raise a child.” Ellen G. White did not write this adage, but she parallels its intent with the statement “Do not feel that it is no business of your brethren or sisters how you treat your children, or how your children conduct themselves.“ In some contexts (but much less so than was formerly the case in this litigious and degenerate era) it is considered appropriate to tell another’s child to behave themselves. Unfortunately, some parents are self-assured that they are temporal kings and queens, and that their offspring are inerrant princes and princesses. Discretion being the better part of valor, one should probably ignore the public misbehavior of a strange child unless their actions are a threat to themselves or others.
For what purpose are parents to meet together? (75:4) Mutual support and edification.
What will scolding and threats never obtain? (76:1) Results
Rate yourself as a teacher: They say that “…it is a poor workman who blames his tools.” A previous question, one very akin to this one, was answered by proclaiming that the write/answerer of these questions was well-equipped with teaching resources. Should any future attempt to educate a person fail to bear fruit, then the fault will lie with the teacher, and not with the school library (which could now be more properly styled a “media center”).
The training that helped me most was- Not having a social life as a youth. Malcom X read thousands of books as an unintended consequence of his incarceration for burglary. The answerer of these questions read thousands of books because he was an asocial introvert for the majority of his life (but thanks to the Lord he is slowly emerging from his cocoon). Ellen G. White advises against too muck bookishness, as preparation without implementation is dead.
The training I need the most is what Ellen G. White reveals, as replicated in the answer to Question 15 above. It will be now pasted in its short entirety- 15. What are we diligently to guard? our tongue (words) Overcome what? anger and impatience (68:1)
Discuss with others:
How do preparation requirements for teachers compare with those of parents? The primary emphasis of this portion (and most portions) of Child Guidance is upon parents, with a special emphasis upon the mother. A continuing process of intellectual, spiritual, and moral growth is recommended by Ellen G. White for all parents. The generalized nature of this development is what may distinguish it from the more specialized, but extensive preparation that a teacher may undergo in order to be most effective. Teachers are like members of a team, but parents often have only themselves to rely upon for support.
How long will education fail to succeed? (64:1) The passage indicated is extracted from page 276 of another Ellen G. White compilation, Education, which (with preceding page 275) comprises a lament by the author regarding the prevalent ignorance of most parents. As the first teachers, they should be thoroughly prepared before presuming to impart wisdom to their offspring.
Why is it a sin to become parents without proper training for it? The introduction to Child Guidance emphasizes the parents’ responsibility for the eternal souls of their children. To purposefully neglect or misdirect the evangelization of the child is tantamount to casting them into hell itself, an act which is most assuredly a sin!
Discuss “faith and works” in the home life. Our salvation is not earned, so we must allow Christ to be our righteousness. Spiritual guidance in the guise of prayer, Bible study, and worship will help build the faith of the children. Chores and charitable endeavor will help to build their characters. Faith and works are combined when we act upon Jesus’ desire that we obey His commandments, as faith in His authority make us willing laborers in the vineyard of the world.
Why is the Bible so vital a guide in our parental guidance? Section 65:5 advises parents that “…if they will study the Word of God carefully, they will find in it full instructions and many precious promises made to them on condition that they perform their work faithfully and well.” The Bible is the infallible Word of God.
What is meant by “home missionaries”? (69:3) Due to Christ instruction that we preach the Gospel everywhere, the whole earth is a mission field, and we are all missionaries. At this date (2017) all human habitations, or “homes” are located on earth, so the home qualifies as a mission field, and a most important one.
How can children be under the Holy Spirit’s guidance every day? (70:0) The parent can teach the child what a privilege it is to receive the Holy Spirit. A glowing report about the benefits of invoking this divine assistance will motivate the child to “go and do likewise.” Teaching them to pray is a good first step. Teach them to behave so as not to grieve the Holy Spirit.
Discuss “mothers,” as described on page 71. A danger exists that mothers (and every other person in the world, for that matter) will be misdirected from a diligent focus on domestic duty and child-rearing responsibilities so they may devote themselves to self-gratification and vanity. As mentioned previously, mothers must constantly strive to improve themselves. They must remove the beams that are occluding their own eyesight so that they may successfully extract the motes of ignorance that impair the vision of their children (a scriptural allusion, of course).
Discuss “parental training” with relation to “child training.” (74, 75) The answer to the preceding question would serve just as well to answer this one. Is a servant better than his master? An as-of-yet untainted child, under the control of an inept parent may indeed be temporarily better than their master, but soon enough the evil influence of the parent will corrupt the child (but not permanently and irredeemably so, one prays, in the case of every child). The adage “Garbage in, garbage out” is applicable to this scenario, for (in the words of another bit of proverbial wisdom) “the leaf never falls far from the tree.”
Why is it the business of others how we rear our own children? (75:2, 3) Here is yet one more adage– “It takes a village to raise a child.” Ellen G. White writes that parents should never be so self-assured as to decline advice and correction from more seasoned practitioners of the art of raising a child. Satan will be sure to capitalize upon every rookie mistake you make!
Why have parent-education discussion meetings? (75, 76) Iron sharpens iron. Ellen G. White’s comments upon the benefits of “comparing notes” with other parents can be considered prophetic of the now ubiquitous “Parent-Teacher Associations,” or PTA’s. A problematic situation that the parent is experiencing is probably not unique in the annals of child-raising, and others will be able to offer advice and potential solutions based upon their own experiences.
Discuss scolding, nagging, “bawling out” of children. These actions are more than just unproductive; they are downright destructive.
Think on these things:
Am I qualified to be a parent? Biologically, yes. But infinitely more important than this minimum and ubiquitous qualification is a life anchored by Jesus. Christians who exert themselves to obey the commandments of God already hold an advanced degree in parenting.
How can I qualify? Prayer and Bible study are excellent preparation for every human enterprise, including that of properly raising a child.
What will become of my child if I do not? As noted in the introduction of Child Guidance, the child may be denied eternal life in heaven with God due to parental ineptitude.
What will become of me? Again, as noted in the introduction of Child Guidance, the parent may be denied eternal life in heaven with God due to the poor quality of the work they did in the raising their child.
What should be a mother’s highest aim? (68:3) This highest aim (and one that all should aspire to, all of the time) is to conduct one’s affairs in a manner that is well-pleasing to God.
Of what am I especially to feel my need? (69:1) No significant action should be undertaken without first invoking, through prayer, the supernatural assistance of the Holy Spirit.
Who has a greater work to do than do kings? (71:2) The one most responsible for proper Child Guidance…
M Is for the Many things she gave me, O Means only that she’s growing Old.
T Is for the Tears she shed to save me, H Is for her Heart of purest gold.
E Is for her Eyes with love light shining, R Means Right and Right she’ll always be.
Put them all together, They spell MOTHER. A word that means the world to me!
How can the gospel be brought into my home life? (73:0) Based upon the information that is contained on page 73, the only possible answer to this question is “wholeheartedly.”
Are the evenings in my home “pleasant social seasons”? In late Victorian and early Edwardian times, the members of a family could engage in disparate activities while they were all gathered into a single chamber, the stereotypical “family parlor,” or if you were better heeled perhaps in the “drawing room.” How was this remarkable and salubrious proximity maintained? Before the advent of raucous media, these activities (with the exception of communal discourse, singing, or playing music on the piano that graced many parlors) were all conducted in relative silence. The “relative” part means relative to today. The noise generated by each family member’s individual choice regarding media consumption presently creates a cacophonous and noxious sonic environment. But modern family members are more prone to distance themselves from each other than did their ancestors. Personalized entertainment choices may be perceived by each family member as personally “pleasant,” but are far from being “social.” Modern parents would do well to engineer communal family activities, for the forces that now govern family life are mostly centrifugal, and not centripetal in nature.
Name one lesson I as (the husband, wife, son, daughter) have taught some member of my family today that God could approve. My Adventist Community Service family, due to a financial anomaly, were denied the typical Tuesday pleasure of disposing of a truckload of food in preparation for a Wednesday distribution. Volunteers were all present, but had no meaningful work to perform. The writer/answerer (me) tried set a good (but, in truth, self-serving rather than “good”) example by departing the premises so that he might invest his unanticipated windfall of free time into more meaningful activities. Rather than watching cable television all afternoon at the ministry center, the writer instead did what writers do- he wrote. What did he write? The words that you are now reading.
Section IV- Obedience, the Most Important Lesson
Read pages 79-88.
Check your knowledge:
Complete: “It is a higher branch of education to teach children obedience.” (79:1)
What will prompt and continual obedience do for children? (79:3) Ellen G. White states that the habit of prompt obedience will make the obedient child happy. Willfulness in a child does not lead to happiness, as the will is seldom continually gratified in life, especially after one has matured into an adult. Efforts by the parent to steer the child clear of the traps that Satan lays in our paths will serve to pre-empt the sense of guilt that wrongdoing engenders, and the subsequent need for repentance that misguided action necessitates.
If the family is to be happy, what must be revered in homes? (79:4) God’s unchanging law.
How does God feel about disobedience and transgression? (80:1) It is the very act of disobedience that God loathes, and not necessarily the resultant mayhem. Ellen G. White writes that “Disobedience and transgression are ever a great offense to God.”
What would God do to the earth were it not for commandment-keeping people? (80:2) Ellen G. White states the God “would not withhold His judgment” from the world were it not for the presence of those who are attempting to live their lives by His rulebook, the Bible.
Between what are children to be taught to distinguish? (81:0) The distinction between polar opposites that the author marks to be of greatest concern are “…between righteousness and sin, between obedience and disobedience.”
Complete: “The way to be treated as righteous for Christ’s sake is to obey the law.” (81:1)
From infancy what three things are children to be taught? (82:3) (a) To obey their parents (b) to respect their word (c) to reverence their authority
Complete: “Before he is old enough to reason, he may be taught to obey.” (82:4)
What kind of language can children be taught to obey? (82:7) Language that is kind, plain, judicious, and simple.
Of what must the child be assured in your firm discipline? (83:0) A steady hand and invariable kindness will reassure the child that he/she is loved by the parent.
What three things must never have their course in the first three years of life? (83:0) (a) selfishness (b) anger (c) self-will
Complete: “The future well-being of the child requires kindly, loving, but firm discipline.” (83:1)
In respecting parents whom else do children respect? (83:2) Respect for one’s parents can lead directly to respect for God.
What parents and children will be welcomed into mansions above? (84:2) The leitmotif of the Seventh-day Adventist Church is “obedience.” Faithful obedience to all of God’s commandments will help to assure that they will roll out the welcome mat when you first approach that pearly-gated community up yonder.
How only can children learn successfully the lesson of obedience? (85:1) Gentle and persistent effort is required to mold the unformed will of the child into a form that is acceptable to God and mankind.
Complete: “Children should be taught from infancy to implicitly obey their parents” (85:2)
To what point must children be brought? (85:4) To the point of submission and obedience.
What lies at the door of parents who permit disobedience? (85:4) SIN
Complete: “Parents are to teach their children pleasantly, without scolding or fault-finding.” (86:2)
Why are children to be reasoned with on obedience? (86:4, 87:0) By understanding the reasons for government of their natural urges and predilections, the child is better equipped to nourish the good (as God would define this) and reject the bad (a very broad category, which must be accommodated by a very broad way). They must know the reasons why an action is either right or wrong. Elsewhere, Ellen G. White notes that the will of the child must not be broken in the process of teaching them obedience. The ability to be able to think for oneself hold great survival value in this world that is under the dominion of Satan.
Complete: “They must learn to suppress wrong with a firm hand, yet without impatience or passion.” (87:3)
When you permit disobedience, what are you permitting the devil to do? (88:0) The doorway into the soul of the child stands wide open for Satan when one allows the child to set the disposition of actions that are the product of their own selfish and willful attitudes. Satan steps right into their souls.
Who, as well as children, are benefited by well-ordered homes? (88:1) When the peace of the household is not compromised by a peaceful and obedient child, and the parents luxuriate in this peace as well.
Rate yourself on how you obey God: With a glad heart (97.4755 percent of the time).
In what do I enjoy obeying God most? We are not excused from obedience to any of God’s commandments. Exerting myself to try to do the work that God would have me to do is an impetus to do this work while it is day (for no man can work at night).
In what do I enjoy obeying God least? It is with great difficulty that shy and self-conscious people (like me) can obey Christ’s unambiguous commandment to preach the Gospel unto all the world
Discuss with others:
In their obedience to God’s law there is perfect freedom. (79:3) God tells us what to do, but does not micromanage the manner whereby we are to perform His will. Although parts of the Bible are very specific, broader commandments such as “love thy neighbor as thyself” may be implemented in a myriad of ways. There are two major methods whereby architectural specifications are written. The most detailed approach is called “prescriptive,” and is so encyclopedic that the builder enjoys little flexibility in the way that he constructs a building. The second method is designated “performance.” This approach describes the qualities that are desired in the building to be constructed, but allows perfect freedom to the builder as to how the end result is attained. The Lord issues many “prescriptive” commands such as “you will not muzzle the ox that treads out the grain,” but “perfect freedom” is experienced when a person contemplates, first prays about, and then inaugurates an activity that is intended to honor one of God’s “performance” commandments such as “love thy neighbor…”
What must never go unrebuked? (83:1) Manifestation of self-will. Any hesitation or reluctance on the part of the child to heed the desire of their parent(s) should be dealt with promptly (a fellow church-member rebukes interruptions by her children with this statement: “Hello! I’m talking”).
What effect has childhood training on adult character? (85:3) Instilling the habit of ready obedience will forestall the kind of dissatisfaction that a child naturally feels when they are subjected to strict discipline. Although it has been known to happen, it is unnatural for an adult to throw a temper-tantrum. An earlier exposure to the concept of submitting oneself cheerfully to authority (be it temporal or divine) constitutes the proverbial ounce of prevention that is much less costly that a pound of cure.
How do firmness and harshness contrast (in discipline)? An iron-fist inside of a velvet glove (or as Theodore Roosevelt said “speak softly and carry a big stick”) does not diminish the legitimacy and strength of an authority figure. The writer of these remarks has worked for managers with disparate methods they employ to direct their subordinates. Those who proved to be most effective in the long-term were those couch even the most extraordinary of demands in the form of a polite question… “Do you mind very much carrying this 200 pound can of slops to the dumpster?” A nice dollop of honey catches many more flies than does a harsh dose of vinegar.
Why are the first three years of training so vital? Many of the synapsis of the human brain (what will, soon enough, constitute the “hard-wiring” of the child’s grey matter) are unassigned at birth and shortly thereafter. An “impression,” a borrowed term when it is applied to thought processes, originally meant to make a lasting mark upon a pliable object or substance. “First impressions” are, without exception, “lasting impressions.”
What about demanding obedience versus breaking a child’s will? Ellen G. White implies that there exists a borderline between the willing submission of a child to the authority of the parent and the “breaking of the will.” The writer/answerer, an individual who has seen far more of this fallen world than he would have cared to, spoke with a person who used to buy wild horses that were rounded up in the Western states by the government and then sold at auction in the East. The buyer used to tie these cheap horse’s heads tightly to the trunk of a tree and then leave them there alone for a few days. When the saint returned to untie his purchases, their wills were entirely broken. But while these animals were now suitable to give rides to young children at a carnival, they were now entirely unsuited for running the Kentucky Derby.
Discuss: Disrespect and impudence of children to parents. The existence of “backtalk” and “sass” from children to their parents is not an anomaly, for the unformed characters of the young places then all squarely in the center of the universe. Monsters are created when parents affirm, rather than resist these natural proclivities. Here is line from an antediluvian novelty song that is relevant advice to insubordinate youngsters: “Yackety-yack… Don’t talk back!” Or as previously noted, “Hello! I’m talking!”
Think on these things:
Do I obey God because I love Him? Theologians assert that it is better to serve God because you love Him, rather than because you fear Him. Psalm 111:10 reads in part “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom…” There exists much debate about the meaning of the word that most English translations of the Bible render as “fear.” Here is what German academics say about this subject- “…the fear of God manifests itself in obedience.” The learned scholars reveal that obedience can be the result of fear, but do not offer us a more satisfying reason for obedience. God’s love is manifested, however, in the satisfaction that one who obeys can experience in the wake of their obedience; the good feelings that result from a job well done. God will give you a metaphorical carrot for your efforts, which is a much better scenario than suffering continual prods from a stick (goad). Management seminars often teach this approach.
Do I obey God because it is my duty? Ecclesiastes 12:13 neatly furnishes an answer to this question (one which is, hopefully, rhetorical in nature, for there is no response but “yes”)- Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. This verse will appear many times in the course of the writer/answerer’s writing and answering, for he has decided to adopt as his motto. Ellen G. White would approve!
Do I obey God because I desire the reward? Even though I most assuredly do not deserve any reward, Christ has indeed promised a reward to His followers. Those who are conscious of their shortcomings will immediately return it to He who is truly worthy of it, much like the “casting of crowns” before the throne of God. The reward (prepare for a metaphor that has been used for a previous answer to be recycled for this answer, as well as the next one) may be likened to a “carrot.”
Do I obey God because I am afraid I will be lost? Adventists (like Jehovah’s Witnesses) do not believe that the lost suffer an eternity of torment in hellfire, but rather cease to exist entirely. In this condition, one is so lost as to be entirely unfindable. Exclusion from heaven is scary enough in its own right, and therefore is analogous to the metaphorical “stick.” The writer of this answer neither deserves. nor expects a reward, but is fervently praying that he will not get lost. Upon this earth all Christians are lost, and then found. After the Great White Throne Judgment, however, the lost are lost forever!
Why should I teach my child to obey? If everyone (not only children, but especially children) followed their own wills, rather than the indispensable consensus that is termed “civilization,” then our modern world would resemble the Biblical epoch described in the Book of Judges. Verse 21:25 reveals this- In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes. This situation is designated by the word “anarchy.”
Can I teach him to obey if I do not love him? A willing and ready obedience is the product of love for one’s child as demonstrated by one’s words and actions. It is both the good and bad (for even good children perceive discipline to be “bad,” for they are all naturally very self-centered) that will be weighed in the child’s mental algebra every time that obedience is required. The negative consequences of disobedience will skew their behavior in the general direction of goodness. Love is the spoonful of sugar that helps the bitter (at least in the child’s perception) dose of corrective medicine go down.
Can I claim Psalm 40:8 as my personal testimony? Here is the Psalm in question– I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart. Jeremiah 31:33 reads- But this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD, I will put My law within them and on their heart I will write it; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. This is thought by some Jewish scholars to refer to the time of the appearance of the Messiah. Christians are all aware that the Messiah did come, and He shall come again. Those who look forward to His return should not neglect to store up Scripture in their minds, but are blessed to have the assistance of the Holy Spirit to lead their minds into all knowledge, and to transform hitherto stony hearts into flesh. In Second Corinthians 3:3 Paul writes this to the citizens of that bustling seaport- It is clear that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
Name my latest victory over disobedience. I will plead the fifth (even though confession is good for the soul). As this answer is composed, it is only the magnitude of my recent disobedience of Paul’s inspired admonition that is contained in First Corinthians 10:24 (No one should seek his own good, but the good of the other person) that provokes an evasive answer to this direct question. A fit of selfish pride has left, in its wake, an onset of remorse so gargantuan as to exclude any thought of citing some vain and relatively petty “victory.” Repentance must precede forgiveness, and I am still working on the mandatory repentance, an important and non-negotiable prerequisite to God’s forgiveness. I will revisit this question after I have properly adjusted this regrettable attitude. Too much pride! Pray for me, s’il vous plait…
Section V- Other Basic Lessons
Read pages 91-116.
Check your knowledge:
To what must mothers train their children to yield? (91:2) Children should be trained to yield to the wishes of their mothers.
What is the “veriest cruelty” to a child? (91:3) It is most cruel to allow bad habits to develop. This will happen when child guidance is administered by the children themselves.
How much shall we give a child who cries in demand? (92:1) Histrionics (a term which may be the root of “hissy fit”) should be responded to by giving the presumptuous child absolutely nothing that they are whining for.
How often may we safely permit a child to manifest anger? (92:2) Never Never Never Never Never! (The writer’s high school chemistry teacher used to count this memorable and emphatic declaration off on his fingers as he declaimed it to his less-than-attentive classes.)
In what must a child be encouraged? (93:1) The child must be encouraged to govern themselves. This is not an ability that children are born with, so it is up to the parent to educate them in the art of self-governance.
What will ruin a child of perverse disposition? (93:3) Indulgence of a quick, passionate child (an archaic term for this type of nature is “mercurial”) will only strengthen “perverse” (a word which has assumed unsavory nuances since the era that Ellen G. White was writing, much as has the formerly common use of the word “intercourse”) proclivities. The darkness will succeed in shutting out the light. China, in the midst of its one-child-per-household experiment is reputed to be a country that is well-endowed with over-indulged children.
How do scolding and faultfinding affect a child? (94:2) A hasty and passionate temper in the child can be the result of too much criticism. This section does not obviate the need for correction, but rather seeks to soften and humanize the style whereby correction is administered.
What two attitudes are to be taught in the home? (97:1) The section reference by this question describes only one attitude, a spirit of peace. Children should not be suffered to deport themselves like a pack of wild Indians (a politically incorrect comparison, the writer admits). When company arrives, they should be seen and not heard (the writer/answerer’s mother’s attitude, but not necessarily that of Ellen G. White).
Complete: “They [children] should not be allowed to be careless and boisterous.”(97:3)
How many disrespectful words may children speak to parents? (98:5) To quote from the song, “Home on the Range,” …never is heard a discouraging word…”
What grace should be cherished carefully? (99:1) Reverence for God.
What must a child be taught about things in the home? (101:1) An ordered household will degenerate through the process of “entropy,” which is defined as a “lack of order or predictability; gradual decline into disorder.” Continual maintenance is necessary to forestall entropy, and children must be trained to contribute to, rather obviate the maintenance routine.
Complete: “Children should be taught that they must not handle the property of other people.” (101:3)
Complete: “Let them have a few playthings, and let these be strong and durable.” (102:1)
If we cooperate with God and obey His laws, what has He promised to do? (103:1) He will keep our human machinery in healthful action.
To ensure future happiness what two areas of education must come first in child training? (103:5) The physical and the moral areas.
When does God check up on lax habits and unsanitary home conditions? (106:1) God is passing by our homes today. We must be prepared to pass muster.
Are children to be kept indoors constantly, dressed like dolls? (107:4) NO! “There is nothing impure in clean sand and dry dirt,” writes Ellen G. White.
What is essential to the health, cheerfulness, and vigor of the family? (108:1) Perfect cleanliness, plenty of sunlight, and careful attention to sanitation.
What two elements are to be cultivated in our children? (110:1) Order and taste.
Why should a child have a room of his own? (111:3) They will develop a sense of ownership (this is a much less incendiary phrase than the more common, yet etymologically regrettable “pride of ownership”).
By forming habits of regularity and order, in what four things would children improve? (112:1) (a) health (b) spirits (c) memory (d) disposition
To maintain purity, what must be guarded? (114:0) (a) (b) (c) A natural division into categories “a” “b” and “c” is not evident in this section. Here is a possible answer– guard the corners of both their rooms and their minds from an accumulation of filth.
Complete: “Do not allow them to be alone with other children.” (114:3)
Against what should we erect barriers? (115:1) Ellen G. White cautions against the sensual indulgence of the age. Mark Twain referred to late Nineteenth Century as the “Gilded Age.” Contemporary humorists enjoyed satirizing the shallow materialism of American culture between the Civil War and WWI. This humorous treatment would yield to much more barbed literary and journalistic criticism as the Twentieth Century progressed. Powers that heeded these warnings stove to make America a better place to be. Much of their work is presently being undone, and while literary criticism has not disappeared, it is largely ignored here in the beginning of the Twenty-First Century. Dissent is impotent, as it is not attended by effective action (as it was in the 1960’s, for example). At present, “activists” mainly just talk, talk, talk…
Rate yourself in self-control: Like a pressure cooker, the writer/answerer is able to contain himself up until that critical, climactic, and cataclysmic instant when the integrity of the vessel is irreversibly compromised. After the resulting explosion, all the King’s horses and all the King’s men cannot restore the integrity of the vessel. Savannah native and songwriter Johnny Mercer used to dole out drunken abuse to his associates. The next morning, he would send the objects of his abuse flowers by way of apology. This gesture seems inadequate. The writer’s remorse is equally ineffective. Continual lapses, attended by an unending series of repentances is a horrible way to live. Again, please pray that the writer/answerer will either learn better self-control, or at the very least how to avoid situations that will knock him off his rocker.
I have good self-control when I am in control of my circumstances.
I find it hardest when I am not in control of my circumstances (I suppose that makes me a “control-freak”).
Discuss with others:
Should children be permitted to romp about the house? Romping about in well-heeled Victorian houses was limited to the “playroom.” This designation may have evolved at the time of the writer’s own early youth into what is called a “Romper-Room.” Ellen G. White would undoubtedly consign the act of romping to its most appropriate venue- the great outdoors. Not only young children, but young maidens have historically engaged in outdoor romps in the springtime. Medieval maidens selected May as the proper season for these frolics, and decorated maypoles. Hebrew maidens may have engaged in similar romps, as alluded to in the seldom-glossed story of the benighted daughter of Jephthah, just consigned to some controversial fate in consequence of her father’s rash vow. Judges 11:37 states- And she said unto her father, Let this thing be done for me: let me alone two months, that I may go up and down upon the mountains, and bewail my virginity, I and my fellows. The writer has now digressed way beyond the original topic of indoor roughhousing.
How shall we deal with tantrums and temper spells in our children? Zero-tolerance is advised by Ellen G. White regarding losses of self-control by youngsters. At the onset of unacceptable behavior, the authority figure must exert themselves that they may nip it in the bud.
Why must parents have kindly yet firm discipline in the home training? The metaphor of an iron hand ensconced in a velvet glove shall be dusted off to answer this question. Discipline should be vigilantly maintained, but not in a manner that will traumatize the object of this discipline. Too many antibiotics will cause the targeted microbes to develop resistance to them. Ellen G. White writes that unkindness engenders a “hasty and passionate temper” in children (as noted in the answer to question 7 in the first part of this section).
Discuss the impudent child- cause and cure. The cause? A lack of preemptive training in proper behavior patterns. The cure? Again, zero-tolerance for impudent behavior. This requires that the child expend its vituperation impotently. It is hoped that the spring that drives misbehavior will quickly wind down, and the child will come to realize that their chutzpah is of no advantage to them. Concepts such as “stonewalling” and the “silent treatment” may be descriptive of a temporary cure, but a lasting cure will requires both a preparatory and remedial education.
How shall we deal with destructive tendencies in children? Channeling the ungoverned child’s predilection to wreak havoc into more acceptable activities will drain the energies that the child was in danger of misdirecting. Sports in general can be regarded as acceptable sublimations of the violent natures that lie beneath the cool façade of many people, be they children or adults (as they are not yet possessed of a knowledge of the peace that passeth all understanding).
How can children best learn the “cause and effect” in relation to disease? The previously mentioned high-school chemistry teacher, an accomplished pedagogue, often spoke of a cancerous human lung that he used to own. It was pickled in formaldehyde, and served as an object lesson. An accompanying exhibit was a healthy pink pickled human lung that presumably lived smoke-free. The dramatic contrast between these two gruesome artifacts helped to drive the teacher’s point home to his students; smoking cigarettes is an idiotic thing to do! High school heath lectures were frequently illustrated by films depicting the consequences of bad habits, or even “social” impurity (“social” being an Ellen G. White era euphemism for “sexual”). Anti-drug propaganda would zoom in on the site where an addict was repeatedly jamming a needle into their vein. It was all very crude, but very effective, and obviously very memorable to the writer/answerer of these remarks.
Discuss the impact of home surroundings on the child’s character. The surroundings of a home can be either static or dynamic. The physical plant (rooms, rugs, furniture and pictures) is not nearly as important as the social and spiritual ambience of a household. Proverbs 17:1 says this- Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife. (“Sacrifices” alludes to a quantity of fresh meat, implying a feast, and not to the rituals that provided this protein source.)
Can we be too tidy and too clean? (109:3) In the United States, those who possess the skills and apparatus try keep a shine on their shoes. The writer’s grandfather, a salesman, would polish his shoes every night. In Germany, however, this ritual is perceived by many to be a waste of valuable time, and they manage to live perfectly well with a scuffed finish on their footwear. The true path lies somewhere between these two extreme attitudes. The term “obsessive-compulsive disorder” did not exist in Ellen G. White’s time, but the phenomenon it describes assuredly did. The author uses the misdirection of the efforts of the Pharisees as an illustration, for in attempts to properly accomplish tasks they were said to “strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.” The writer/answerer contribute a tableau of Jesus, Mary, and Martha. While Martha fussed about the house, Mary, by hearkening unto Jesus, chose the better part. Priorities must be continually adjusted to create a balance between extremes.
Discuss: “Correct habits.” (110:4) Ellen G. White furnishes some examples of these “correct habits.” These are “neatness and order, virtue and righteousness, sanctification of soul, body, and spirit.” A trainer directing deep-breathing exercises stereotypically proclaims “In with the good, out with the bad!” A much more comprehensive guide for the adoption of “correct habits” would be the entirety of the Holy Bible.
What about the sleeping habits of children? Should they be permitted to sleep with other children? This is not the greatest idea in the world, unless circumstances allow no alternative, but poverty, like politics, often makes for strange bedfellows. One of Bill Cosby’s earliest comedy albums was titled “To Russell, My Brother Whom I Slept With.”
Where do TV, movies, fiction, “funnies,” magazines, etc., fit in with training children to be pure in heart? Ellen G. White frequently derides the pulp fiction of her era that was directed toward youth as being an unwholesome influence. The writer first learned to read shortly after the creation of Mad Magazine, an influence that those who may have been blessed to be raised in a Christian home probably managed to avoid. Ironically, it was this magazine’s publisher’s father who first promulgated the kind of comic books that had the authorities clamoring for the censorship of this insidious industry, resulting in the “Comics Code.” When the writer’s adolescence witnessed the escalation of the toxicity of his literary diet with the substitution of National Lampoon for Mad, the scale of damage to the interior of his skull was enlarged to the point where only God Himself could restore it. A lull followed the youthful excesses, until decades later he decided to follow Virginia Wolfe’s advice and read Proust. This was, rather unexpectedly, revealed to also be a bad idea.
How carefully are we to watch our developing children? Why? “Eternal vigilance is the price of freedom” could be easily transformed into “Eternal vigilance is the price of a proper parental management of a child.” If the parents’ guard is dropped for only an instant, this is all the time that Satan and his minions need to intrude themselves into the scene.
Think on these things:
What types of music does my child hear? (93:2) “The songs of Bethlehem” is recommended by Ellen G. White as a good place to begin. This may be a creative and poetic way of declaring “songs that are age-appropriate.”
What lessons have I learned with my child? (94:3) The patience that it takes to properly raise a child is Christ-like. The child-raising dynamic of teaching not only by word, but by example is referred to as the “school of Christ” by the author. It is a sanctifying process for the parent.
“It is a sin to speak impatiently and fretfully or to feel angry- even though we do not speak.” (95:1) The Episcopal liturgy includes a regular petition to God that we not sin in “thought, word, or deed.” The first of this series, “thought,” even though it may not outwardly manifest itself, is nevertheless visible to God, and therefore can be displeasing to God. First Samuel 16:7 reveals that …the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.
Where does sin lie if my child is disobedient or peevish? (98:2) The introductory paragraphs of the White Estate compilation that is titled Child Guidance discloses the answer to this question; the parents are ultimately responsible for the ultimate disposition of the souls of their children, and this information coveys a good sense of why parenting is such an awesome responsibility.
“Parents and children are to sustain so close a relation to God that the heavenly angels can communicate with them.” (99:2) The Spirit of Prophecy reveals this in Maranatha, page 315- Not until the providences of God are seen in the light of eternity shall we understand what we owe to the care and interposition of His angels… Every redeemed one will understand the ministry of angels in his own life. The words “redeemed one” have been highlighted by the writer/answerer of this questionnaire. Apparently, people can behave in such an obnoxious way as to make themselves unfit objects for the ministrations of angelic beings. On page 511 of the Great Controversy Ellen G. White further writes- …the holy angels that “minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation” (Hebrews 1:14). Angels, much like discreet and discerning Christians, are very selective about who they choose to continually associate with. They do not cast their pearls before swine, so we should not behave like pigs.
“The boys and girls of the family should feel that they are a part of the home firm.” (107:5, 108:0) Ellen G. White pens this sentence in the context of an admonition that homes be kept in good order. The children are to be enlisted in this ongoing process (but to paraphrase another admonition, located in another section of Child Guidance, “Don’t go overboard!”).
Is my home clean? With the single exception of seemingly ineradicable hairs that the cat continually sheds, the domicile of the writer of this answer is passably clean. While he has perhaps not entertained angels unawares (from Hebrews 13:2), as a renter he is only a steward for the true owners. Not angels, but maintenance personnel frequently appear, unannounced, but not unwelcome.
Do I take a bath every day? On page 276 of Ministry of Healing Ellen G. White writes- Scrupulous cleanliness is essential to both physical and mental health. Impurities are constantly thrown off from the body through the skin. Its millions of pores are quickly clogged unless kept clean by frequent bathing, and the impurities which should pass off through the skin become an additional burden to the other eliminating organs. Many references to bathing by the author are concerned with the soothing aspects of a nice soak in the tub. A stereotype regarding the act of taking a bath in Ellen G. White’s era was that it was a Saturday night tradition, but daily hygiene was usually limited to those wash basins on a wooden stand that your great-great-grandparents utilized. Antiperspirant was not in use, and body odor was (unavoidably) accepted as a part of life, or (in a method that can be as offensive as natural body odor) masked by fragrances. We now have indoor plumbing (at least in America), so it is not only for the primary purpose of personal health and cleanliness that daily baths or showers should be taken; it is also to avoid giving offense to your fellow man by subjecting them to malodorous vapors both natural and unnatural.
Am I “too dirt conscious” so that no one can be comfortable in the home? A new American standard reflects a much earlier tradition in the Far East- “Do you want me to remove my shoes?” Some householders are perpetual guardians of the virgin purity of their wall-to-wall carpeting. Others are not occupants of a dwelling, but rather curators of a museum of furniture and knickknacks. These hosts will readily sacrifice the comfort of their guests for what they perceive to be a higher purpose. It is these types of households that angels may studiously avoid as being inhospitable.
Is my home neat? The writer/answerer is not yet (nor can he be in this life, although many founders of the Adventist church believed this to be possible) fully sanctified, but he was once much worse than he is at present, and was not above petty acts of deception. Cleanliness requires considerable effort, and the result of all this labor is not readily discerned by casual guests (unless they should choose to subject your domicile to the “white glove test”). But the act of straightening things up that are askew is relatively easy when compared to conscientious domestic janitorial work. If you find that you only have ten minutes before unexpected guests arrive at your door, you may emulate the writer’s old modus operandi by adjusting every object in your home to where it either parallel or perpendicular to every other object. The result will look “neat” (but shall fundamentally yet remain unclean, much like a whited sepulcher).
Am I pure in heart? When your motives are not self-serving, then they are pure. But all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. If perfection eludes you, you must still aim for it. Perhaps, with prayer and effort, you may reach the level of purity that Ivory Soap first started to claim back in 1895- 99 44/100% Pure.
Do I permit my child to spend the night with his friends? If you substitute the word “cat” for the word “child” then the answer is no. Indoor cats live, on average, a year longer than outdoor cats. Cats, much in the manner of human beings, are in the worst danger of becoming sick when they are in proximity to other cats (or if you are human, other humans). Similarly, moral and societal sickness can be the result of the spiritual infection that quickly incubates whenever children are together in an unsupervised environment. Although not a parent (except to my cat), the writer/answerer can trace many of the problems of his childhood and youth to the evil influences of bad associates. But as stated in a previous answer, he was himself not born a saint. If questionable sleepover guests possessed an incendiary effect, then it resulted in a conflagration only because the writer was metaphorical gasoline to their metaphorical lighter. In conclusion, “sleepovers” are a recipe for disaster without vigilant parental oversight. The ostensibly innocuous slumber-parties of his sister were equally destructive, as the girls resembled a coven of witches when they sought (in the manner of King Saul at Endor) to predict the future by consulting a Ouija board.
Name one way I have shown reverence to God today. I labored to help those less fortunate than myself. The unharvested corners of the fields of Atlanta were successfully gleaned, and the gleanings stored up and laid out for distribution on the morrow. This was a case of showing reverence to God by obedience to God. It was also a case of eyeservice! It is hoped that right actions will eventually result in right thoughts.
Section VI- Lessons in Practical Virtues
Read pages 119-136.
Check your knowledge:
How early in life should the child be given daily tasks to perform? (119:1) As early in life as possible
Complete: “Give your little children something to do, and let them have the happiness of supposing they help you.” (119:3)
When should a child be taught to cultivate his God-given faculties? (120:0) Again, early in life
If children are not taught to be industrious, what will Satan make of their minds? (120:1) A “workshop”
Complete: Children “should be taught that obligations are mutual.” (120:2)
At what age is a child to learn he is to share life’s burdens? (120:3) Six years and upward
As we go about our work, what attitude will link us with angels? (121:1) An attitude of faithfulness
Complete: “One of the surest safeguards of the young is useful occupation.” (122:1)
What is one of the greatest sins parents commit against their children? (122:5) Leaving one’s children nothing to do
Complete: “If children have proper home training, they will not be found upon the streets.” (123:1)
Complete: “Abundance of idleness spoils life and character.” (123:2)
Complete: We are to “regard time as a precious treasure, a trust from God, for which every human being must give an account.” (123:2)
What can we never recover? (123:4) Squandered time
What two things are not fruits of the Christian tree? (124:2) Laziness and indolence
What is a great curse to the human family? (124:3) Idleness
Persons who are slow may overcome what habits? (125:2) Dilatory movements and lazy habits
What is the best discipline a child can have? (126:1) Work
Complete: “Innocent pleasure is never half so satisfying as when it follows active industry.” (127:1)
Complete: “Parents should not allow the love of change to control their child.” (128:1)
What habits will prove an untold blessing in later life? (129:1) Industry and thoroughness
What constitutes the actual discipline of life? (129:3, 130:0) Little things
What are we to learn and teach to our children? (131:2) The lesson of self-denial
What is an essential part of education? (131:3) Sacrifice
How many members of the family should practice self-denial? (132:2) Every member
How early in life are children to be taught self-denial? (132:3) From two to four years of age
How are children to be taught to react toward trials and disappointments? (132:5, 133:0) These should be borne bravely
Complete: “They should be taught to subdue the hasty temper, to withhold the passionate word, to manifest unvarying kindness, courtesy, and elf-control.” (133:2)
What three habits are better for both parents and children than a rich dowry? (134:1) Habits of economy, industry, and sobriety
Who are to be taught to support God’s work now? (134:2) Everyone
Complete: “Do not . . . absorb means in embellishing your houses; for it is God’s money, and it will be required of you again.” (134:3)
What should never be thrown away? (135:4) Anything that can be utilized
How are children to be taught the right use of money? (136:1) By using it
Complete: “Let children be taught to keep an account.” (136:3)
Rate yourself as a worker: Adequate
My best qualification as a worker is unwavering application to the task at hand
I need to improve in maintaining my composure in stressful situations
Discuss with others:
Why should children be taught to work at home early in life? The idea that work is an onerous activity is a misconception, and an early exposure to the actions that the world-at-large designates as “work” will reveal to the child these are actually a purposeful variety of “play.”
Illustrate: Make your children a part of the family firm. The child will be both amused and flattered if you append a job title to their regular household chore- “I am appointing you chief supervisor of the family waste removal department!” You can even create an family organizational chart (do not forget to place God at the top of this chart).
How can work be made a pleasure to our children and to us? Here is a facetious answer- Whistle while you work. Here is a slightly less copyrighted answer- Keep a song in your heart. Here is reality behind these platitudes- Whatever you may be doing, do it to the glory of God. We are serving God 24/7, and if this news does not keep you cheerful 24/7, then (as the writer/answerer’s late stepfather was fond of saying) …there must be something wrong with you!
Discuss the “untold value in industry” in child training. The worst possible location in the annals of the history of planet, the entry gate of Nazi extermination camp Auschwitz is inscribed with the words “Arbeit macht frei.” This is German for “Work makes you free.” A sacred and profound insight was thereby purloined and insulted by Satan in yet another manifestation of his nefarious involvement in the great controversy.
Why is ignorance [in knowing how to work] not acceptable to God? Proverbs 6:6 will serve to dispel the ignorance that God does not accept- Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise…
How can we “barricade our children” with principle in work habits? In Christ’s Object Lessons Ellen G. White writes about a …a familiarity with divine things that will be as a barricade against temptation. “Divine things” are the building blocks that should be used for constructing an effective barricade of “principles.” The word “barricade” has an association with frequent revolts against the government by the citizens of Paris. Around the same time that Ellen G. White was writing, a reconfiguration of the street patterns of this city under the direction of Georges-Eugène Haussmann eliminated the ancient Parisian labyrinth that conveniently facilitated impromptu revolts, and also paved over the ancient cobbles that were formerly accessible for the purposes of lobbing them at your opposition (as Shimei did to King David as recorded in Second Samuel).
What effect does work have on nerves, body organs, and muscles? Work has a bracing, toning, edifying, augmentative, ameliorative, or (less obscurely) a good effect.
How can we best organize a day’s work program in the home? The Bible is a go-to resource for answers to every question. Here is a generalized approach as recommended by Ecclesiastes 3:1- To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven… Recurrent tasks should conform to a regular schedule. There is a diurnal “season” for sweeping the floor, and also one for taking out the garbage.
What is wrong with being slow, dilatory, or lackadaisical? Lethergy wastes precious time. The last word in this triad, “lackadaisical” has this definition- “sentimentally woebegone.” It is an increasingly archaic contraction of the Seventeenth Century lament “Alas! Alak!” The similarity of the first syllable to the word “lax” may explain it association with the notion of slackness.
Discuss work as a form of discipline. What relationship? Work need not be considered discipline as a means of punishment (“I hereby sentence you to thirty years of hard labor!”), but rather in the nature of self-discipline. Steady application to a task will build character, and certainly enhance one’s future employability.
Why is there nobility in work? What has work to do with character building? Management-types who are introducing new hires into what might be considered a “menial” position are fond if proclaiming “All work is noble.” This proverb sounds unconvincing unless the person stating it occasionally rolls up their shirtsleeves and pitches in to assist the “menial” laborers accomplish their duties. We communicate through words only when our actions are consistent with words. This demonstrative concept is embodied in James 2:18- Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
Can we overwork children in the home? Can work discourage a child? When you heap too much weight upon the back of a camel, they will simply lie upon on the ground and refuse to carry it. Similarly, the parent should know when the amount of work a child is required to do around the house crosses the line from “reasonable” to “excessive.”
Why should children be trained to work thoroughly and with dispatch? Here is a well-known saying– If you are going to do a job, do it right! The attributes of quality (thoroughly) and speed (dispatch) are implied in this question. Regarding quality, the child should not be permitted to do slipshod work. With regard to speed, an excess quantity of time invested into a task is a hallmark of inefficiency.
What is wrong with the statement “I don’t want my child to have the hard life I have had- to work like I have had to work”? Regrettably, there exists a large segment of society who consider some tasks as “beneath them.” The industrious citizens of the Philippines can be frequently discovered in foreign countries, doing the housework that some peoples (Saudi Arabians, for example) may consider themselves “too good” to do. One hopes that the vaunted (yet diminishing} “Protestant work ethic” would preclude these elitist attitudes in Christian nations. It does not, however.
How can we train children that they are not the center of the home life? The instant gratification of the will of a child leads the child to conclude that their wills need always be gratified. The quality of patience can be instilled into the child by introducing a waiting period into the process (even if this wait is an artificial construct), and not immediately granting their desires. In the King James version of the Bible, Isaiah 40:31 reads- But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Most Bible commentaries indicate that we should remain productive while we are “waiting” on the Lord, as some could (and do) misinterpret this verse as a sanction for their indolence.
Discuss: Teaching children to be unselfish. One can teach by example. Be ye a cheerful giver, and the child will follow your lead. Please do not preach the Ten Apples Sermon to them, as this hackneyed chestnut fundamentally promotes self-interest over the interest of others.
Why should the child be taught to tithe and save for mission giving? The Bible does not stipulate a minimum age requirement for tithes and offerings. When Scripture was delivered by the Spirit and transcribed by men, children did not much handle money. But if a child receives an allowance, or token wages then it would be against God’s will for them not to allocate at least a tenth of this to God’s coffers.
Is our indulgence of our children a sign of our love for them? Only on Christmas and birthdays!
How shall we teach our children to economize? Frugality, yes, but miserliness, no! Misers are bitter, and not cheerful people. A Frenchman named Moliere wrote a nice play about misers a few hundred years back. Money should never be squandered, however, writes Ellen G. White. Basic creature comforts are OK, but luxury and ostentation are not.
What about teaching children to keep personal accounting records? As soon as a child can “do their sums” as they phrased it back in 1900, they should be encouraged to acquire an indispensable knowledge of the fine art of double-entry bookkeeping. The Venetians invented this nifty technique, and it kept them at the top of the mercantile pyramid for centuries.
Why not blame children and scold them when in their work they break things or have accidents? Should they pay for damage done? Caution, but not compensation should be urged upon the child. You cannot make an omelet without breaking some eggs. Accidents will happen! Censure would surely prejudice them against ever again attempting whatever task created the accidental breakage. Concerning personal injuries, these will occur even should the best safety precautions be observed. Perhaps it is acceptable to scold a child for not taking obvious safety precautions, but these are almost entirely the responsibility of the parent, and not the child.
Think on these things:
Do my children enjoy helping me? If a child does not enjoy helping their parents with tasks, then the fault (much as in the case of their potential exclusion from eternity due to parental misguidance) lies not with the child, but with the parent. It indicates poor Child Guidance.
If not, why not? As is the case with workplaces for grown-ups, this failure may well be an instance of improper management techniques. The child may be adverse to a task not because of its nature, but due rather to how you choose to represent it to them. To associate honest work with punishment at any point in a child’s life represents a horrific mistake by the parents.
Do I give each child something to do each day? For the majority of mankind, daily bread requires daily toil. A child should be acclimated to this important survival mechanism. Good work habits are, by definition, “habitual,” and regular chores should be regularly performed.
Do I demand adult perfection? If you do, then you are demanding a level of performance which can be described by this oxymoron- “Adult perfection.” It is an impossibility, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. The founders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church believed that we can approach perfection much closer than the vast distances that separate most people from perfection, however.
Have I sinned by giving my children nothing to do? As they say, “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop.” Catholics might describe this negligence as a “sin of omission.” Ellen G. White advocates that we be useful, and a child who is idling is entirely useless.
Do I keep the fourth commandment, including the ninth verse? In an effort to determine what the ninth verse of the fourth commandment may be, the entire commandment will be replicated and parsed-
(1) Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. (2) Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: (4) in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: (5) For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: (6) wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
Number nine appears to be missing!
Do I waste things because I have money and can buy more? One would have to be “made of money” to live in such a profligate manner. Many do, but profligacy is unaffordable to most people on a grand scale. We can be profligate in small ways, however (a seeming contradiction in terms, but as they say- “Every little bit helps…”).
Do I (and my children) keep account of what we spend? After decades of resistance to internet banking (principally due to paranoia about security issues), the writer/answerer now checks his balance online several times a day. This may or may not represent progress, as a former provision to keep a small amount of money on hand to serve as a kind of safeguard against faulty accounting practices is no longer in effect, and therefore a reserve no longer exists. This condition is what is known as a “hand to mouth existence.”
Name one thing in this lesson that has helped me to be a better (husband, wife, son, daughter). Having held several management positions in the past, the writer/answerer of these responses despairs that self-motivation as an inherent characteristic of some workers is often conspicuously absent. Many approaches were tested as a potential means of instilling self-motivation into others, but those who are not accustomed from their youth to faithfully and energetically discharge their duties can only be motivated by the continuous effort of their supervisors. This is a lot of work for the supervisor, who will frequently just do the work themselves, simultaneously praying that the unmotivated individual will swiftly transition into alternate employment. Before this Section VI was absorbed, the writer was well-acquainted with the truth contained in this non-scriptural proverb- You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink! The small percentage of employees that cannot be motivated by any means whatsoever either hold a great quantity of short-term jobs, or ultimately join the ranks of the homeless. Barring cases of disability, these supernumeraries on the stage of life are all the victims of bad Child Guidance.
Section VII- Developing Christian Qualities
Read pages 139-158.
Check your knowledge:
Complete: “Children should not be forced into a precocious maturity, but as long as possible should retain the freshness and grace of their earliest years.” (139:1)
From what type of excitement should children be free? (139:1) Artificial excitement
Lest we encourage vanity, what should we not praise in children? (139:3) (a) their looks (b) their words (c) their actions
How do flattery and indulgence affect a child? (140:2) They tend to swell the pride and self-importance of the child
What three things do children need? (141:1) (a) appreciation (b) sympathy (c) encouragement
Name two things we should teach our children. (141:4) (a) Lessons in simplicity and trust (b) To love, and fear, and obey their Creator
What must not live in the heart or find room in the home? (143:1) Selfishness
List six things we are to teach our children to be. (143:3) (a) Polite (b) Compassionate (c) Loving (d) Pitiful (e) Courteous (f) Tenderhearted
In what are adults to set the example? (143:5) (a) Courtesy (b) Cheerfulness (c) Affection; and the faithful discharge of our daily duties
Name three characteristics that are the curse of the age. (144:2) (a) Pride (b) Self-esteem (c) Boldness
Complete: “Cherish the precious, priceless gem of modesty.” (144:4)
Complete: The sunshine of love, cheerfulness, and happy contentment promotes “health and vigor of mind and body” (146:2)
What will the sober-minded Christian not be? (146:3) (a) mournful (b) depressed (c) despairing (d) light, trifling, and jesting
What is “the very beauty of holiness”? (147:0) Christian cheerfulness
What kind of words are we to educate our children to speak? (147:1) Words that will bring sunshine and joy
Complete: “It is the duty of God’s children to be cheerful.” (147:2)
Complete: “Let your life be free from deceitful practices.” (150:1)
What should parents do all in their power to preserve in their children? (150:3) Artless simplicity
Of what should parents be models? (151:1) Truthfulness
Complete: “If you want your child to be truthful, be truthful yourself.” (151:3)
What may harsh discipline often make children fear to do? (151:4) It will make them afraid to tell the truth
Why should we love and choose the right? (153:1) From a high sense of our obligation to God
How many of life’s actions are to be stamped with honesty? (154:3) Every one of them
What should our sympathy for children never foster in them? (157:2) Self-pity
Complete: “Lead the youth to feel that they are trusted, and there are few who will not seek to prove themselves worthy of the trust.” (158:1)
Rate your cheerfulness: Intermittently exasperated, but 99 44/100% cheerful.
I am always cheerful when I am not seriously debilitated by some illness or injury.
I am always depressed when I reflect upon time before I knew Jesus.
Discuss with others:
What happens when parents attempt to shove their children into the limelight? They come to have a very high opinion of themselves, and are rendered insufferably smug and conceited.
What relationship has a child’s dress to its character development? If a child is arrayed as if he is a kind of junior Beau Brummell (a renown “fashionista” of Regency England) then he will assume the prideful attitude of someone who is close to the throne (as was Brummel to the Prince of Walesl). Clothes were expensive, or alternately relatively labor-intensive in the era when Ellen G. White was writing. In our era, clothing can also be very expensive, but not because it is necessarily expensive or laborious to produce. The cachet of a designer name is motivation enough to entice people to squander vast sums on their wardrobes, and some even resort to crime that they may enabled to display a “prestigious” label to the rest of the world.
Discuss: “The Secret of True Charm.” (140) Ellen G. White reveals this secret to not be (in the case of young girls) personal beauty, but rather-`a meek and quiet spirit, in patience, generosity, kindness, and a willingness to do and suffer for others.” Although the latter attributes may not immediately endear the possessor to those who are only concerned with superficial charms, it will assuredly endear one to the only judge that truly matters: God Almighty.
Discuss the difference between encouraging and praising a child. Everyone merits encouragement, or what Scripture might refer to as mutual edification. Praise should be reserved for loyal hound-dogs, however, as most praise directed toward mankind is more in the spirit of flattery. Children and adults alike are in danger of taking praise too much to heart, compromising the humbling and ameliorative effects of a constant awareness of our sinful natures.
Where and how is the cornerstone of courtesy in a child laid? The manner whereby a child interacts with its family circle is the pattern that shapes all subsequent interactions.
How shall we teach humility and modesty to our children? A recent edition of Adventist World featured an article which noted that the denomination frequently made too much of personalities. Christ revealed in Mark 9:35 (just one of several examples) that …If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. To quote an unknown hack poet (me)- You are no great shakes, so be humble, for goodness sakes!
How important is the home atmosphere in character building? It is the contents (Christian character in action) and not the container (the rooms and furnishings) of a home that builds the character of a child.
Discuss: “Smile, parents; smile, teachers.” In 1934 Charlie Chaplin wrote the tune for a popular song on subject of smiling, and lyricists later added words such as- “You’ll find that life is still worthwhile If you’ll just smile.” Earlier, during WWI, soldiers and civilians were advised by another popular song to “Pack up your troubles in your old kit-bag and smile, smile, smile.” Lastly, and most famously, the misery of the Great Depression was mitigated by a song first recorded in 1929, one which helpfully advises us to- “Keep on smilin’, ’cause when you’re smilin’, baby, the whole world smiles with you!”
How shall we teach children to develop the spirit of thankfulness? It is effective to point out to children (physically, rather than merely verbally) the privation and decrepitude that marks the lives of the less fortunate. It is to be regretted that many incidences of privation still exist in this country that can serve as negative-object lessons. Parenthetically, it is rather insensitive and impolite to point to a homeless person and say to your child, “Look! That’s gonna be you someday if you don’t shape up!”
Why should children be taught “artless simplicity”? Contrast with “pretense.” A child that is comfortable with their place in the world and beloved by their God and their family will not feel the need to constantly strive to augment their own importance in the eyes of others by bragging, boasting, or even lying. The absence of these all-too-common character traits can be described as a state of “artless simplicity.” Their presence is what is known as “pretense.” Pretension is normally confined to words alone by youthful practitioners thereof, but adults are more prone to enlist material possessions as props for the purpose of propaganda.
Explain how to teach children to shun lying, prevarication, deception. Humiliation as a child-management technique is neither advisable nor admirable, but it will be an unintentional and transitory consequence of an energetic effort by parents to disclose the truth behind a child’s deception. A series of probing questions by the parent in the wake of a childish lie will inevitably lead to contradictory statements or an unbelievable assertion by the child as they attempt to defend their untruths. Justice will prevail for the prosecution (the parent) quickly enough. The child’s credibility will be revealed to lacking, and the guilt they feel over being “caught in a lie” may motivate them to attempt to avoid future cross-examinations.
Is honesty the “best policy,” or is it an ingrained principle of life? A studied response to this question would drag in the concepts of freewill (Arminianism- an Adventist doctrine) verses that of determinism (Calvinist theology). Additional analysis would also weigh the alternate influences of nature (heredity) verses nurture (environment). Ellen G. White is a champion of honesty, and the freewill we possess to choose to live honest lives. “Ingrained principles” is a synonym for “human nature,” which is usually associated with the intrinsic sinfulness of man. Jean-Jacques Rousseau would argue that man is intrinsically good. This writer/answerer, for one, would not care to buy whatever Rousseau was selling, but many were deluded by him. This Frenchman was, in his own way, even more destructive to the morals of mankind than was Ellen G. White’s nemesis, Scottish super-atheist David Hume.
Why do some children develop into adult weaklings, mentally and morally? A reference to “nature” verses “nurture” in the answer to the preceding question has some bearing on the answer to this question. While the typical child can be led into the path of righteousness by the guiding influence of parents and teachers, it is also true than some children exist whose physical and mental endowments may be either above, below, or outside of the norm. Regarding the existence of “moral weaklings,” however, this group is universally the result of a poor upbringing.
Contrast sympathy and self-pity in child rearing. The act of sympathy that Ellen G. White is describing in Child Guidance is from the parent, and directed toward the child. Feelings of “self-pity” in the child are the consequence of too much concern and sympathy by the parent. A contrast of these two instances of pity will reveal that the first is cause, and the second is effect. These concepts are therefore “conjoined,” and resistant to “contrast.” This statement does not answer the question, but rather questions the structure of the question that is being asked.
Discuss trust versus suspicion in relation to dealing with children. To some people, everyone they stumble across is under suspicion. A famous writer (not Ellen G. White) once remarked that “you are better off trusting everyone you meet, rather than distrusting them.” This is sound advice, unless you stand in danger of losing something, or someone, that is valuable to you to a con artist. The world is filled with con artists, so we must be suspicious of strangers. Regarding “trust,” Ellen G. White (as you may recall) writes that if you place children in a position of trust, they will typically rise to the occasion, for they will usually strive to not violate whatever trust that you may have placed in them.
Think on these things:
Are my children truly charming? Mon petite chat c’est tres charmant, merci!
How near like paradise is my home? The popular song “My Blue Heaven” was copyrighted in 1925. If it were just two years older, it would currently be in the public domain, and you could sing it all you cared to without getting sued. Part of it goes-
You’re gonna see a smilin’ face, fireplace, cozy room,
And a little nest nestled where the roses bloom,
Just Molly and me, and the baby is three,
We’re so happy in my Blue Heaven!
This instance of “answer-by-reference” is so oblique as to be almost entirely off-topic!
Is our home courteous? The desert-dwelling Bedouins of Arabia are (stereotypically) renown for possessing the contradictory attributes of hospitality and thievishness. The magnitude of their hospitality is akin to some Scriptural instances of seemingly excessive levels of hospitality. While I do not have any intention of offering my virgin daughter as a surrogate victim so that I might preserve the safety of a guest residing under my roof, it is a good general rule that you cannot be too hospitable!
Do I smile in the home even though my heart is sad? There is a moral dilemma when one strives too hard to “put a brave face” on a bad situation, one that would seem to push this act of dissemination a few inches into the realm of hypocrisy. On the other hand, we ought not behave like murmuring crybabies, even when tragedy and tribulation engulfs us. Those who keep issues forever beneath the surface, however, could be compromising their longevity. But if we have a good relationship with Jesus we can be (counterintuitively) cheerful in the midsts of adversity.
Do my children have attentive ears and willing feet and hands? If they don’t, then they certainly should!
Do I consider it my duty to be cheerful? Despite the qualification that disfigures the first sentence of the answer to question 4 above, it is oft noted in sermons by Christian pastors that our failure to be joyful at all times reflects a lack of trust in God. For the believer, all adversity is temporary and transitory, and we are to unfailingly represent to others our sure knowledge that God has a solution to our problems, and is always implement this solution as soon as the proper moment arrives. Our desire for instant alleviation of our troubles does not always reflect God’s timetable for your deliverance. If there should be a delay, He has good reasons for this delay, for “All things work to the good…”
Am I truthful to my children? Parents should always be honest with their children, for a single failure to adhere strictly to the truth will destroy the parents’ credibility in the eyes of a child.
Am I honest in my dealings? Honesty truly is the best policy.
Am I training my children to be self-reliant? If you are not, then you certainly should be! A reference to Ellen G. Whites admonition that children be made able to think and act for themselves will be restated. These capabilities will prove to be critical in the last days.
Do I encourage my children to have a sense of honor? A sense of honor, within reasonable limits, is an admirable characteristic. Sadly, even in Ellen. G. White’s day, the concept of “honor” was debased by its linkage to the concept of “pride.” Challenges were issued. “Seconds” met to negotiate the rules of engagement. Duels were fought over trifles. People died. The great Russian poet Alexander Pushkin needlessly died for the sake of his “honor.” So did another Alexander, founding father Alexander Hamilton of the West Indies and the USA.
Name one courteous act I have done today for my family. My immediate family member already has food in her bowl and water in her dish, and I put fresh litter in her litterbox.
Section VIII- The Paramount Task- Character Development
Read pages 161-190.
Check your knowledge:
What is the only treasure we can take from this world? (161:1) A character formed according to the divine likeness
Of what two things does strength of character consist? (161:4) (a) The power of the will (b) The power of self-control
What other than sanctification “is the work of a lifetime”? (162:2) The formation of character
When may our lives be perfect? (162:3) The answer is not “never,” even though the questionnaire may lead one to presume this by the manner in which the question is formed. Ellen G. White actually writes this- At every stage of development our life may be perfect; yet if God’s purpose for us is fulfilled, there will be constant advancement… A similar approach may be used to reconcile the ostensibly contradictory concepts of being “led into all knowledge” by the Holy Spirit with the idea that we will be continually learning throughout eternity. This statement by Ellen G. White helps to clarify assertions by pioneering Adventists regarding the “perfectibility” of mankind. It may be likened to the sequential attainment of high school, college, and graduate school diplomas. Alonzo T. Jones wrote a treatise on this subject, but the writer/answerer has not, as of yet, had opportunity to peruse it.
What is the greatest evidence of Christianity the world can see? (163:1) Thoroughly educated children
What creates a habit and forms a character? (164:1) Repetition
What is our first duty to God and man? (164:2) Self-development
What will give strength and solidity of character? (165:1) Faith in Christ
What is the noblest work in which we can engage? (165:2) The formation of character
What is required to keep crooked traits from strengthening? (167:3) Constant watchfulness
Complete: “He knows your infirmities, and works to restore, not to destroy.” (168:2)
Who are to help children form right characters? (169:1) Parents are divinely commissioned by God to engage in this important work.
What will prove the ruin of our children? (170:3) Indulgence (The term “over-indulgence” is in common use, but to Ellen G. White’s way of thinking just a tiny bit of indulgence is too much)
How much of the time are we dependent on the Holy Spirit in rightly rearing our children? (172:1) Every moment
How will God assist parents in child guidance? (172:4) He will hear their prayers and work with their efforts
What will God not do? (172:4) Do the work that He has assigned to the parent
What are the elements of Christian character? (173:1) Love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, faith, and charity [see Galatians 5:22-23]
What are parents planting for their own feet in wrong child training? (175:1) Thorns
Of what two extremes in child rearing must we beware? (175:2) (1) Deformity (2) Symmetry and beauty
How can mothers nip sin in the bud in child training? (176:2) Train and subdue the carnal tempers
What negligence does God particularly condemn? (176:4) A dalliance with sin and crime, and parental ignorance of this dalliance
When are parents the worst enemies of their children? (177:2) When they let evil go unrestrained
When do parents imperil their souls and those of their children? (179:1) The answer to this question cold be considered the leitmotif of Child Guidance, as the executors of Ellen G. White’s estate that compiled the work chose it to grace the introduction to the work. Here, for the third time or fourth time now (but assuredly not for the last) is a restatement of this salient point (one which cannot be stated too often)- When they disregard the commandments of God!
How should evil youth be treated? (180:0) With condemnation
What makes children grow up at cross-purposes with the world? (181:1) A lack of discipline
Complete: “Seeking happiness in the path of selfishness will bring but misery.” (182:0)
After what model are innocent babes to be fashioned? (184:1) The divine model [see Question 1 of this section]
What are we to build around our children? (185:1) A fortification of prayer and faith
When are children to be subdued? (185:2) While they are still young
How can parents train their children for sound health in later years? (187:1) Good habits of eating and drinking, dressing, and exercise
Rate your character: To quote a Beatles song, “It getting better all the time.” The ongoing process of sanctification is well-begun, but the writer/answerer’s life (as may every Christian life) may be compared to what software developers refer to as a “beta version.”
My strongest point is drive and determination
My weakest point is impatience when a desired result does not happen instantaneously
Discuss with others:
Discuss: “True character, a quality of the soul.” (161:2) Ellen G. White reveals that it is a person’s conduct that is indicative of their character, and not superficial endowments such as intellect or physical attractiveness. (The following observation is not by Ellen G. White, but is akin to some of her remarks) Even a “reputation,” which may be the result of personal propaganda campaign, is not necessarily indicative of what lies beneath the surface (this is what Paul describes as “eyeservice,” a sin that the writer/answerer is not innocent of).
What do we mean by “strength of character?” Faithful and obedient Christians reflect the character of Jesus, and our strength is dependent upon how solidly we are anchored to this rock-solid foundation.
Discuss perfection in development of character. (162:3) A misleading previous question provokes a paraphrase by the writer/answerer of a relevant statement by Ellen G. White- “Although our development is an eternal progress, we can be considered to be perfectly attuned at any given moment in this process.” Alonzo T. Jones was referenced as a potential source for doctrinal enlightenment in a previous answer to Question 4 of part B of this section. The word “perfection” designates a historically important, but nevertheless controversial aspect of Adventist doctrine (much as does the denominational viewpoint regarding faith versus works).
What about “characters formed by circumstance?” Satan is responsible for the predominately wretched circumstances that are currently prevalent on earth, and these sorry conditions will only get worse as the second coming of Jesus approaches. Any characters that are the product of one’s natural reaction to circumstances must necessarily be a bad character, for the circumstances themselves are bad. Very bad!
Why is character study vital to this generation? (169:2) As noted in the previous answer, the days are evil, and growing more every day. Repent, for the end is near! Fear God, and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment is come!
Discuss how to make a transformation in our families. It is only by conforming to the will of God that transformations of families from bad conditions to good conditions (the presumed “transformation” mentioned in, but not precisely defined by this question) can be successfully effected. Parents have their role to play in the enforcement of obedience to God due to the “divine commission” that they are given regarding the evangelization of their offspring.
Discuss indulgence versus iron rule. As “indulgence” and “iron rule” are descriptive of diametrically opposed approaches to child guidance, they both represent an unacceptable extreme. One would presume that the path of virtue lies somewhere between these extremes, but (as noted earlier) the level of “indulgence” should be zero. Ellen G. White does not condone any indulgence whatsoever of children, so indulgence does not exist as a counterweight to “iron rule.” “Rule” is praiseworthy, but it should be made up of an element that is more flexible, and less prone to corrosion than iron. Ditch the adjective.
Explain misguided love and sympathy. “Natural” affections may serve to muddy the distinction between the child and the behavior of the child. As does our Creator with each of His children, it is possible to make a distinction between the sinner and the sin, loving the former, but despising the latter. The phenomenon of “family pride” is often destructive to the character of the child, as this tends to lead the parent to unthinkingly take their own child’s side when there is any conflict between the child and those who may be perceived to be outsiders (even should the child themselves, and not the outsider be the offending party). This is how so-called “family feuds” get started. Other sections of Child Guidance warn against a “sympathy” for an afflicted child that can potentially incubating the negative attribute of “self-pity.”
How can we correct wrong attitudes in our children? Righting wrong attitudes in a child is a constant effort, and it must be administered both strategically (through a good grounding in Scriptural precepts) and tactically (the prevention or immediate correction of inappropriate behaviors by the child).
What is mental health? The answerer’s former employer used to boast that whatever his petty shortcomings might be, he was at least “sane.” is incessant efforts to manipulate other human beings so that they would be compelled to serve his self-interest made a mockery of the notion of “sanity,” were sanity to be inclusive of concept of Christian charity. To quote W.C. Fields, “I’d rather be in Philadelphia” (a Revelation joke). The old boss’s unremittingly self-serving attitude may be common enough among mortals, and even considered to be praiseworthy by many, but it is not good mental health. Mental health is to love and serve God with all of the strength that you command, and not to primarily serve yourself. Incidental manifestations of what society may deem as “aberrant” behavior will attend any honest effort to fulfil God’s will, but these are not a sign of insanity. They are signs of nonconformity and eccentricity. Unless you happen to be a native of Japan, your culture probably tolerates minor eccentricities. God, of course, sees into our heart, and knows our inner character and intent. Even should they be straight-jacketed and whisked away to some looney bin, “Holy Fools” who are about their Father’s business nevertheless manifest the quintessence of “mental health.”
Discuss: “High Points.” (189:1) The desirable features of a child’s character that Ellen G. White discusses (as noted in the answer to preceding Question 7) can be described by first noting the two extreme opposites of a specific category of behavior. The bad extreme is rejected, of course, and the good is accepted. But while desirable attributes all favor the “good” end of the semantic spectrum, the parent is always advised by Ellen G. White against instilling the child with “too much of a good thing” The “middle way” that many philosophies espouse (or the dialectics of Hegel) is not a characteristic of Christianity, for we are to always seek the good in an uncompromising manner. Extremism, however, is cautioned against by Ellen G. White. The writer/answerer promises not to now encumber the reader with a reference to Barry Goldwater’s famous quote regarding extremism in defense of liberty. Senator Barry Goldwater was too extreme for the voters of 1964 to elect as president, but he would have blended right into today’s political landscape.
Describe the dispositions, morals, and character of children educated for God. (171:2) Ellen G. White’s comments in the referenced section of Child Guidance are similar to the ones that Paul makes in one of his epistles, so the latter author will be conscripted to provide an answer to this question. Here is Philippians 4:8- Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Think on these things: (divine providence masquerades as serendipity- look just above here)
Do I have self-control? Alas, but intermittently. But I am working on it, though!
Am I training my child to have self-control? If I had a child, or if I had charge over one, I could best instruct them in this important attribute by consistently maintaining my own composure.
Does my child have a strong will power or won’t power? “Won’t” power is a major attribute of “willpower,’ as it is willpower that empowers a denial of sinful people, places, and things. Satan manifested his evil will when he chose to direct his own affairs, rebelling against the good will of God. Ellen G. White never advocates the “breaking” of a child’s will, since life shall present frequent instances where a strong will is needed to resist temptations. Resistance against Satan requires a willingness, and willpower to “just say no,” but we are all blessed to have God as an ally in our ongoing struggle. He does His part, and we must do ours. The outcome of this struggle is known to God, but the moral trajectory of our temporal existence is the result of decisions that we make entirely on our own. This last statement represents a gloss upon yet another subcategory of will- “freewill.” Adventists are not Calvinists, you know! There is a significant distinction between Arminianism and Calvinism based upon whether our will is free or not to choose for ourselves the road leading to heaven.
Is my child wearing the “royal robe woven in heaven’s loom?” An online search of the term “royal robe woven in heaven’s loom” reveals that Ellen G. White used this expression at least nine times in her writings. It must have been a favorite of hers. It refers, of course, to the spotless garments that we all don when we assume the righteousness of Christ in lieu of our former wardrobes of filthy rags, the ones that was bequeathed to us at birth. The poetic alliteration of the words “robe, woven, and loom” make for a happy and memorable experience when read aloud. A contrasting suit of clothes might be “the threadbare shreds that eternally enshroud the unredeemed, dispensed from the devil’s own rag-bag.”
Name one way I am stronger today than I was yesterday. Physically, I must have expended 10,000 calories at the church food pantry yesterday. This effort resulted in fresh new muscle fiber that is being generated today to replace that which was traumatized for a good cause the day before. Morally and spiritually, I just may be deteriorating slightly. Good evidence for the truth of this is the self-serving nature of the sentences that were placed just before this one. What an arrogant thing to write! People who publicize their charity are not beloved by Jesus. This section will end, somewhat arbitrarily, with Matthew 6:3-4-
But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
The glory is God’s alone, for we are less than nothing without Him, and our reward is unearned.
Section IX- Fundamental Elements of Character Development
Read pages 193-220.
Check your knowledge:
Complete: The training of the first seven years outweighs the entirety of the impact of the rest of life in character formation. (193:1) [This answer is conjectural, based on an existing passage that is similar, but far from identical to the elusive one that this question features.]
What lessons in life do children seldom forget? (193:5) The first lessons
In what years is discipline most vital to the child? (194:2) The first three years of life
What course of discipline produces the best results? (195:0) A firm, decided, straightforward course of action
In what do parents most generally fail? (195:2) In letting Satan plant the seeds of the first crop
In addition to book knowledge, what are children to learn in their first fifteen years? (195:4) Arts essential for practical life
By what means can a mother point her child to his Creator? (197:1) By every familiar object surrounding him
Though children may err, which ones will not go far astray? (198:1) Those who are wisely trained in childhood
Complete: “It is …by a repetition acts that habits are established and character confirmed.” (199:2)
In what years is character generally formed? (199:3) In the early years
What draws deep lines upon the tender child mind? (199:4) What the child sees and hears
To perfect Christian graces, what kind of efforts are required? (200:2) Persevering efforts
How may parents and teachers help to establish wrong habits in children? (201:3) Small and wrong actions, oft repeated
What do cute little pranks become as children grow older? (202:1) Disgusting and offensive
What power should be acquired while we are young? (202:5) The power of self-control
Complete: “In childhood Jesus did the works of an obedient child.” (204:4)
How should we regard the feelings of other members of the family? (205:1) With forbearance and forgiveness. This familial regard must be “sacred” in nature.
What must be cultivated and impressed on the mind of the child? (205:3) Self-control
Complete: “That restraint which must be kept upon one would crush out the life of another.” (205:4)
Complete: Happiness “follows only in the wake of duty.” (206:2)
Complete: “You can train the disposition of your children much more than you think.” (208:2)
Complete: “The will is the power of decision, or choice.” (209:2)
What power (with God’s help) lies within each child? (209:3) To choose the right
How are we to fashion and mold the will of the child? (210:1) By precept and true example
Complete: “The will should be guided and molded, but not ignored or crushed.” (210:4)
What should we never do to children? (210:5) Drive them [as if they were cattle]
Children should be taught to move from what two sources? (211:0) The firm will, the mature will, and the determined will of the mother [you may choose any two of these three]
Into what should children not be forced? (212:1) Submission
What great mistake may parents blindly make? (213:1) The lines of control are placed in the child’s hands
Complete: “Be careful that you are not rude to your children.” (216:2)
What children are in an especially dangerous condition? (218:1, 2) Those who precociously observe the disconnect between Christian precepts and the contradictory actions of those who profess to be Christians
How will children learn gentleness? (218:4) By the parents’ good example
What must not escape our lips? (219:1) Fretfulness, harshness, or passion
What three things have a direct bearing on our children’s future? (219:4, 220:0) the looks, words, and actions of parents.
Rate yourself as an example to your children: People should constantly exert themselves not to lapse from the high standard of conduct that Jesus maintained, but if (or more precisely, when) we do fail to match His standard it is critical that these potential (inevitable) lapses not occur where children can witness them.
I hope my children copy me in my optimism
I hope my children do not copy me in oversensitivity to imperfection
Discuss with others:
Discuss character formation in life’s first seven years. Initial perceptions are the provenance of instinct, but by the time a child begins to understand the rudiments of language higher concepts than those that are directly connected to eating, drinking, and sleeping are being formulated in the highly impressionable minds of preschoolers, however rudimentary these “higher” concepts may be. The powers of perception and memory are always in advance of the ability to formulate words that can effectively communicate these thoughts, but this does not mean that the child is not thinking, and thinking very hard. The words and actions that a child is witness to (as Ellen G. White states) are being fully absorbed. When language enters the equation, even more complex facets of a child’s character begin to development. Neural pathways are still in the process of formation in early youth, and a neurologist might inform us that the physical layout of, a mental template of sorts, will determine the ways that a child will think for the rest of its life. While subsequent mental, spiritual, and even physical contributions to the development of good character continue to be important, no influence will ever again equal level of significance of first impressions.
Why then must discipline be developed in the first three years? The answer to the previous question is equally suitable as an answer to this question- just substitute the word “seven” with the word “three.” The previous answer serves as a type of generic, all-purpose answer. It is ostensibly profound, but fundamentally it simply repeats a single thought several times, but in slightly different ways.
Discuss: Sow good seed before the devil sows tares. Those readers familiar with the Parable of the Sower will recall that the tares became so interwoven with the good crops that the process of weeding the garden would have resulted in damage to the good plants that one hoped to ultimately harvest. Ellen G. White admonishes parents not to allow Satan to “sow the first crop,” which is a very nice metaphor. This first crop will leach most of the nutrients out of the soil of the field that is your child’s developing mind, and also delay by at least a season the production of useful crops. The apparently lush verdure of unkempt August pastures is useless as cattle fodder. The metaphor suggested by this question, however, urges an ounce of prevention, rather than a pound of cure. Parents are to nip trouble in the bud! Noxious weeds should not be allowed to take root in the midst of metaphorical food crops. A better symbol for the techniques whereby evil may be neutralized as an early influences upon a child would be a poetic analogy to Stage 3 or 4 cancer in one’s body. It will take drastic action, and the sooner treatment begins, the better the odds that the patient will survive. Chemotherapy, radiation, and even surgery may not pleasant, but the consequences of allowing the disease to remain untreated (death) is much, much worse than the discomfort of the cure.
Contrast the child training of Napoleon, Hume, Voltaire, Samuel, Joseph. This question embraces three children of the Enlightenment, and two children of promise. The first three of these five individuals inhabited an era of history where God was being pushed to the periphery of Western consciousness. He was rebranded as a detached clockmaker, one who no longer even makes clocks (self-winding clocks).
Napoleon, initially hailed as a type of secular savior, managed to alienate his biggest fans when he proclaimed himself Emperor. Napoleon received a decent education (for a Corsican, at any rate; Corsica was a kind of backwater of Europe at the time. Has any good thing come from Corsica?). To further his educational opportunities, he emigrated from the relatively primitive isle of his nativity to the epicenter of mainland France. But he never overcame his rustic mannerisms (parenthetically, Richard Wagner continued to display the table manners of a pig even after he had become the toast of European society). The ridicule that Napoleon’s rusticity drew from his fellow students must have served to squarely place a chip on his young shoulders, one that he continued to wear throughout the remainder his life. Hitler’s early rejection as an artist engendered a misanthropic worldview and an urge for conquest that was like a more virulent strain of the disease that l’empereur manifested. Napoleon was very good at math, and he earned his postgraduate degree in the discipline of turning live people into dead people. He applied mathematics to the military sciences by calculating the trajectories of cannonballs (more parenthetical commentary- every graduate of the United States Military Academy used to be an engineer).
David Hume was a “bete noire” for Ellen White due to his virulent atheism Modern defenders of the faith of Jesus may disdain him for the energy that he invested into his arguments that opposed the concept of “intelligent design.” As Scotsman, he should have naturally grown up to become a God-fearing (but tragically misguided regarding the topic of election) Presbyterian. Hume was poor as a youth, but nevertheless managed to study for a season at the University of Edinburgh. As was his distant successor Bertrand Russell, Hume was brilliant, but terribly misdirected his brilliance. As a proof of his powers of observation, here is a replication of one of his insights that the answerer of this question is in total agreement with- “there is nothing to be learnt from a Professor, which is not to be met with in Books.” It is to be regretted that Hume seems to have chosen the wrong books to serve as his early influences. He embarked upon the kind of intensive and unrelenting course of self-directed study that Ellen G. White cautions against. He nearly lost his sanity as a result. To an even greater degree than did the third member of this triad of anti-heroes, Voltaire, his negative effect upon those who champion the Bible as the primary source of wisdom has proven to be lasting and insidious, and is indicative that he did indeed loose his sanity (in the manner of Festus’s statement to Paul found in Acts 26:24- …Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad!). Napoleon caused much mischief within the bounds of his lifetime, but his downfall witnessed the speedy restoration of the European status quo. The mischief caused by David Hume, however, (and to a lesser degree, Voltaire) persists unto this day, and will only be fully eradicated when Christ returns.
Voltaire will get treated briefly. He was an irritating and obnoxious, but regrettably prolific and influential personage. His fame was as much a product of his perversity as it was of his talent. All public schoolchildren who are contemporaries of the answerer of this question were required to read “Candide.” Atheists, and conceivably even Marxists were dictating the curriculum back in the early seventies, the epoch that witnessed the regrettably secular education of the writer/answerer. Impressionable minds, irredeemably impressed can now (involuntarily) recall the book’s hero witnessing a “splendid auto de fe” (literally an “act of faith,” a Portuguese euphemism for the public incineration of heretics by the Inquisition). Outrage at these abuses is a reaction that Ellen G, White might endorse, but Voltaire did not reserve his barbed wit only for those who might merit criticism. He also lavished it upon anyone or anything that rubbed him the wrong way. He was extremely treacherous, and even had the effrontery to satirize a prince who was one of his patrons, Frederick the Great of Prussia. It is not so giant a chasm that one must bridge to connect Voltaire to his fellow countryman and contemporary, the Marquis de Sade. Like Hume, and like l’empereur, Voltaire enjoyed a comprehensive education, but badly misdirected the fruit thereof.
In contrast, Samuel was well-pleasing to both God and man. He was the recipient of instruction by the priest Eli, whose own sons ignored their father’s instruction. These sons, Hophni and Phineas, were to subsequently die at the hands of the Philistines. If abstemious Samuel ever made a single misstep in the course of his lifelong service to the Lord, the Bible does not reveal it. He is Christ-like in his avoidance of error. Which brings us to celebrity number five…
Joseph, as revealed by the Bible, is much more prone to error than was Samuel. Although any overt criticism of Joseph is hard to discover in Christian circles, he was by no means without sin. He was beloved by his father Jacob, and perhaps a tad spoiled as a result of this favoritism. God used him in a mighty way, however, and (much in the manner of a preceding Biblical reunion between Jacob and Esau) everyone who may have born a grievance against Joseph was providentially reconciled to him by the end of the Book of Genesis. Thomas Mann wrote a fictionalized multi-volume work about the life and times of Joseph, but (like the work of Alonzo T. Jones) the writer/answerer has not yet allocated time enough to read it. Some critics feel that Mann is perhaps “too clever by half.” This judgment could also serve as a good description for the lives of Hume and Voltaire.
Discuss habit formation–time for, and means of. The two broadest formative categories are nature (heredity) and nurture (environment). The lesser products of Creation rely primarily on the internal instructions that God furnishes to them at birth. Bees are a good example of this, who (despite never having attended a “Bee University”) engage in very sophisticated activities as members of productive and well-organized colonies. As the scale and complexity of an organism gets increased, the proportion of behavior that is learned from an earlier generation of the species also increases (as does the length of the training periods required to learn advanced survival techniques). But God’s creative piece de resistance, mankind, stands apart from the rest of Creation. Man’s learning period is very long, and Ellen G. White reveals that it will never come to an end (assuming we are granted entry into eternity). She also notes that bad behaviors are learned in those moments when the student is not under the direct guidance of experienced teachers. Idleness, and self-guidance (or even peer-pressure, an insidious influence) can result in the acquisition of bad habits. Humanity is distinguished by its knowledge of good and evil. Evil tendencies, which are unique to mankind, are principally the result of original sin. This is an inborn propensity for wrongdoing, and this tendency to gravitate toward evil can be categorized as “nature.” Jesus can assist us to overcome this unwelcome proclivity. But the unwholesome learned behaviors designated as bad habits are all a product of “nurture” (environment). Mankind is unique in that he learns, and then repeatedly engages in activities that are destructive to his health and welfare (smoking, drinking, eating baloney, etc). Thankfully, Jesus can also help us to overcome these suicidal actions (often described by Christians as “bondages”). In Christ there exists perfect freedom.
Why should parents educate their own discriminating powers in child training? “Garbage in, garbage out.” The advent of the Information Age has created its own distinctive terminology, one ripe for the harvesting of useful metaphors, allusions, and concepts that are descriptive of many attributes of life that have been around much longer than have mass media and computers. Here is a sample- a programmer (parent) who is developing a new program (the content of a child’s character) is aware of the intended uses of the program (to love and serve God). They will incorporate the requisite database (the Bible), and possess the ability to write computer code that that will properly knit the the pieces together (an effective curriculum). The exclusion of any vital component of this process will result in “garbage in, garbage out.”
Discuss the human will- its development and control. Ellen G. White, as noted, does not recommend that a child’s will be broken; it is rather to be properly directed. Human will should always be subordinated to the will of God.
Can we afford to have disciplinary crises in the home training? This question conjures up an image of the infamous mega-riot at Attica Prison. Here is the short answer- no!
Why should parents try to stay young in mind and heart? “Fairy tales, can come true, it can happen to you… When you’re young at heart.” The fresh optimism and unjaded curiosity of children is antithetical to the world-weary and cynical attitudes of the many who have “been there, and done that.” The jaded indolence of the aged only dampens the enthusiasm of the young, and it is not realistic to expect the young to draw inspiration from the human sloths. The joy that comes from a knowledge of God, and the rejuvenating power of living in His will can reinvigorate the older generation, and therefore enable them to relate to youth on their own level; to “think young.”
Discuss the importance of self-control in both parent and child. The performance of deeds, the utterance of words, and the entertainment of thoughts that are contrary to the will of God is known as “sin.” Self-control is what prevents parent and child alike from sinning. God loves you, but He assuredly does not love sin. He is offended when you sin, so the avoidance of sin is important. Very important!
Discuss the tone of the voice in creating home atmosphere. The positive benefits of a salubrious aural atmosphere in the workplace was first made widely accessible by a pioneering provider of piped-in, ambient background music. Major General George Owen Squier was the father of a company called “Muzak LLC,” and he invented the transmission method that Muzak utilizes way back in 1910. Parents can emulate the tranquilizing effect of a salubrious sonic environment by always speaking with a calm voice, and never suffering other members of the household to raise their voices (except when singing God’s praises).
To what extent do formed habits carry over into the next life? Habits (actions) are the elements of our characters that the world is witness to, and the record of our acts persists into eternity. It is therefore imperative that these habits all be of a nature that is acceptable to God.
Think on these things:
What shall it profit me if I gain a good position and neglect my child during his infancy? Whatever fortune you may accumulate due to a “good position” can wind up being partially dedicated to pay for expensive, and usually ineffective rehab for your neglected child after they have matured into errant young adults. Most base and ingrained habits defy remediation without divine intervention, however, so your prayers will be desperately required after you have futilely squandered your rusty treasure in expensive efforts to remediate parental neglect.
Should I sacrifice my child to gain an education for myself? In some strange way, this question reminds one of Abraham’s intended (but providentially interrupted) sacrifice of his beloved son Isaac. This episode was educational for all involved parties, and not for Abraham alone. It is the parent who is obliged to sacrifice for their children, and not vice versa. When the parent chooses to prioritize their own affairs (like paying for an education so that they might gain a “good position”) they will be rewarded by a future of either laboriously struggling to remediate, or by totally rejecting the hapless fruit of their neglect (see the answer to question #1, just above).
Mary could have used more money to make Baby Jesus comfortable, but she gave Him her time and companionship. In the static social milieu of Roman Palestine, Mary would have had great difficulty acquiring more money through any socially or Scripturally acceptable means. This question seems like an inexpert attempt to shoehorn a contemporary phenomenon (the working mother) into a pair of Scripture-based shoes that not only do not fit; they do not even exist!
Am I stimulating the weak traits in my child and repressing the wrong to give my child a healthy mind? This question implies that an effort is being made to train a child, but the techniques being utilized are faulty (perhaps because they are based on the flawed methodologies of Rousseau or Dr. Benjamin Spock). The Holy Bible, with some supplementary pointers by Ellen G. White, is a reliable guide for the child-rearing process, and pertinent to the fine art of Child Guidance.
How do I handle a stubborn child? It is not a case of an “irresistible force meeting an unmovable object.” The divinely-appointed authority of the parent sanctions them to employ methods that will ensure that the child ultimately (if not instantaneously) becomes less obstinate, and much more tractable. Cruelty is not part of the solution, but persistence is. To quote songwriter Tom Petty regarding the position that a parent must assume relative to to a stubborn child- “No, I won’t back down… I will stand my ground!”
What does my child copy from me? Any parent can discern not only traces of their physical appearance in their offspring, but also (and much more significantly) their own character traits. Ellen G. White repeatedly urges parents to set an example of appropriate and godly conduct for their children. “Do as I say, and not as I do” is an unworkable strategy, for children despise hypocrisy as much as Jesus did.
Name one desirable habit I have acquired since I became an adult. It is not insane to claim an attribute that remains an intention, but has not yet been manifested. Effective prayer incorporates this concept. The writer/answerer needs to be much more energetic in sharing the Good News with others. Frequent and energetic efforts to engage in personal evangelism is a habit that he greatly desires. If he here declares it to a present truth, then perhaps he can force himself into soon making it into a tangible fact. This answer is analogous to a vow, but one that remains yet unfulfilled.
Section X- Discipline and Its Administration
Read pages 223-268.
Check your knowledge:
What is the object of true discipline? (223:1) The training of the child for self-government
What is the threefold work of parents? (223:4) To restrain, to guide, and to control
In whose hands does the destiny of our children rest? (224:1) In YOUR hands
What is the price of heaven? (224:4) Obedience to God’s commandments
What right have youth with a sense of honor? (225:4) To be respected
On what should children be thrown as soon as wisely possible? (226:1) Upon their own judgement
How shall we react to children governing themselves? (228:2) Judiciously
Complete: “The characters formed in this life will determine the future destiny.” (229:4)
At what moment is discipline of a child to begin? (230:1) The moment that the child begins to choose his own will and way
In what spirit are parents to bend the will of a child? (230:4) This question has no relevance to section 230:4, unless one were to manufacture an appropriate answer that reflects the views of Ellen G. White such as “A spirit of total inflexibility!”
Why do some parents reject the Bible plan of discipline? (233:3) They compare it to a straightjacket
Complete: “Repress the evil, and encourage the good.” (234:1)
What sin is almost universal? (234:4) Parental neglect
Whom will God hold responsible for wayward children? (235:2) The parents
Where should disobedience never be tolerated? (236:2) Neither in the home nor in the school
Complete: “He will make no excuse for the mismanagement of children.” (237:4)
How long shall children be subject to parents? (240:2) So long as children are under the roof of the parents
How are children to be instructed? (244:4) In obedience to the counsel of the Lord
Complete: “Scolding and fretting never help.” (246:2)
Complete: “Give few commands, but see that these are obeyed.” (247 :3)
How shall we deal with neglectful children? (248:2) You must call your child to account
When only should whipping be used? (250:2) When other resorts fail
Why should we never shake a child? (252:2) Ellen G. White was prescient with her advice against this action, as the world was not yet aware of the extent of physical damage that shaking a child (especially an infant) can cause to the brain
Before disciplining, what two things are parents to do? (252:3) (a) Reason with them (b) Pray with them
What may every fault and mistake become? (255:3) Overcome, a steppingstone to better and higher things
What is love’s twin sister? (258:2) Duty
What shall we teach a child about uncorrected faults? (258:3) Every fault uncorrected will bring unhappiness to himself and will displease God
Complete: “Let them [parents] be sparing of censure.” (259:1)
What children need the most consideration? (260:1) The unpromising ones
What is the twin sister of justice? (262:3) Love
By what combined influences are children to be ruled? (263:2) The combined influence of affection and Christ-like authority
What three things are essential to every family? (264:3) (a) Firmness (b) Decision (c) Positive requirements
Even before their own comfort, of what are parents to think? (268:0) Their children’s eternal interests
Rate yourself as a disciplinarian: The writer/answerer is more of a persuader than a coercer. Persuasion often takes time for research and effort to prepare for its effective presentation. It does not always work, however, when the intended subject of this persuasion is too obtuse to be receptive to reason.
Before any action is taken I always study my memory of the spirit, if not the exact wording of any Scripture that may be applicable. If it is a technical issue, then I “look into the literature,” as some professionals are fond of saying. The internet is an uneven source for unimpeachable information, unless you are able to pay for information that is reliable.
After the deed is over I usually feel satisfied that my duty has been faithfully discharged, or (more frequently as of late) feel frustrated that all of the effort that was invested into preparing for the proposed action was negated by people who exercise authority in a destructive manner, merely for the sake of displaying witnesses that they are in charge (the answerer is obviously in the process of trying to develop the capacity to forgive those who may have recently caused a substantial investment of his time to be squandered, merely to afford leadership an opportunity to enhance their public image (or so called “prestige”), but is placated by a sure knowledge that God is neither mocked nor deceived by petty political gamesmanship. Time will still be as valuable in heaven as it is here upon fallen earth, but not be irredeemably wasted there as it is too frequently wasted by the lord of this world and his willing minions.
Discuss with others:
The chief objective of discipline. The object of discipline is to overcome the inborn evil proclivities of the species. Believers in the theory of evolutionist like Carl Sagan may lay the blame for this upon residual “dinosaur DNA” that still hypothetically clings to our genome, but students of Scripture are aware of who the true culprit is, and are edified by the sure knowledge of his imminent demise.
How far shall we go in children’s self-government? Children should be equipped to control themselves to the extent that no action of theirs is ever in violation of the commandments of God, and (secondarily) the reasonable dictates of the societies of which they are members. The same goes for adults.
Why indulgent parents will lose heaven. The leitmotif of Child Guidance will appear yet again- The parent is not only responsible for the final disposition of their own soul, but also that of the children that God has appointed them to be responsible for! The duties of parents cannot be neglected, nor delegated to others, nor compromised through the overindulgence of a child.
Commanding our children after us (as did Abraham). Abraham was a man of great capacity, if material blessings are indicative of sagacity. Often riches a sign of corruption, but assuredly not in the case of Father Abraham. Too many misguided people consider wealth to be the hallmark of divine favor (Puritans are responsible for the instigation of this errant notion), but Abraham’s special relationship with God was not due to his possessions. It was due to his faith. This faith was very much in evidence when Abraham commanded his beloved son Isaac to accompany him up a mountain. Isaac’s obedience was not forced, and preachers do not neglect to mention that he was old enough to overpower his aged father and flee the scene if he so desired. But just as Isaac trusted his father Abraham, so did Abraham trust in his father God to lead him and his son safely through this test. It may be that a reputation for fairness and integrity is what made Abraham such an effective leader not only to his biological children, but to his extended household as well. The commands of Abraham were intended to serve the best interests of all who chose to follow him, and were therefore not grievous.
How shall we learn the principles of family government? Biblical exemplars (let us exclude the problematic story of Jephthah for the moment) of proper family governance such as Abraham, the subject of the preceding question, are excellent role models for aspiring patriarchs. Some finer points regarding the proper relationship between various members of a family is contained in the epistles of Paul. Supplemental advice from sages who base their directives upon the Bible are also very useful. Ellen G. White’s Child Guidance, the subject of this extensive analysis, is one example of an excellent resource, a lesser light to guide us by night.
Parental unity in home discipline. Parents do not always see eye to eye. Any disagreement or disharmony between them needs to be reconciled in a discreet and private manner, and not displayed before impressionable children. In the writer/answerer’s traumatic childhood experience, it is possible that a husband and wife at loggerheads with one another may seek to enlist their children as allies in their incessant war with each other. These types of broken households are designated by the innocent-sounding term “dysfunctional,” but can be more accurately described as “traumatic hells-on-earth that are the cause of irreparable damage to children who are cursed to be imprisoned in these toxic environments, and are now all thankful to God that they were eventually paroled.”
Disciplining in anger. When Saul lobbed a javelin at young David, this was not the act of a cool and reasonable person. There are no excuses for allowing emotion to dictate procedure. Anger, like vengeance, and like judgment should remain the exclusive prerogative of God. He alone can determine merits retribution or punishment. What is it that angers God? Jonathan Edward’s (a stern Calvinist) most famous sermon was memorably titled “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.” The answer is sin.
Discipline by whipping or shaking children. Here are questions (and answers) 22 and 23, reproduced as a convenient way of reflecting Ellen G. White’s attitude toward the rare necessity for corporeal punishment, and an improper way to administer it (end of discussion)-
When only should whipping be used? (250:2) When other resorts fail
Why should we never shake a child? (252:2) Ellen G. White was prescient with her advice against this action
The place of prayer and reasoning in child discipline. This topic was also covered by a preceding question, and it was discovered that all corporeal punishment that was rendered necessary through a continuing inability to successfully reason with a child should be prefaced by one last-ditch effort to evoke contrition through talk. Should reasoning ultimately fail, then solemn prayer must preface the act of physical punishment. This will serve to emphasize to the child the seriousness of their unrepentance, as well as the existence of divine sanction for the parents’ implementation of the corporeal punishment. As Ellen G. White advises regarding the act of scolding a child, one may assume that should the need arise to spare not the rod, this rod will nevertheless be employed sparingly.
What is one of the greatest curses in any household? (231 :3) When a child is suffered to consistently have their own way, a defective character is the sure result of this case of parental negligence. Note: the writer/answerer of these comments is not Rousseau (thank God), and this study guide is not intended to be analogous to Rousseau’s Confessions (which were much worse than Augustine’s), but his upbringing was one that was substantially free from oversight. It is fortunate that some positive influences existed to engender hope, and a smattering of positive role models were discovered amidst a sizable population of overgrown rogues. A later acquaintance, one possessing keen insight, described this upbringing as that of a “feral child.” Overcoming the disastrous consequences of this neglect was the work of most of a lifetime, and it is still underway. Christ has come to rescue at last, but the writer’s youngest brother, raised under the same dispensation, continues to suffer hourly the consequences of self-parenting.
Can men who neglect their children’s training justify their call to the ministry or to teaching? (232:0) The late Pastor Arnold Murray of the Ozarks, an entertaining and intermittently informative curmudgeon, often expressed his view that Christ is capable of redeeming even Judas Iscariot if He chooses to do so. Genuine repentance results in a new creature. But it would be unforgivable (for the writer/answerer, at least) for a man who was in the process of neglecting the proper training of his children to simultaneously presume to instruct others on scriptural matters. An exception exists when the man’s role in child training is delegated to an approved and competent surrogate, usually the child’s mother. This was the case with the children of Billy Graham, whose peripatetic lifestyle, like that of a long-distance trucker, kept him away from his home-base most of the time. His wife, Ruth Bell Graham did an acceptable job despite his absence, but his grown children all express their deepest regrets that their father was not omnipresent during their childhoods. As noted in the answer to the preceding question, the writer/answerer of these comments was missing both of his parents throughout most of his youth. They were always someplace far, far away, even if they happened to be in the same physical location.
How shall we react to a boy wishing to run away? (241:1). A cold, irrational, and detached approach is inadvisable, such as the approach that has a parent proclaiming to the child, “Go right ahead! See how long you can make it out there on your own!” An announcement that a child intends to run away should be taken seriously, for it is indicative of a tortured young soul that stands badly in need of solace. If it is practical, the option of allowing the child to take a short vacation from their primary residence by staying short-term with friends or other family members can be an unorthodox, yet effective technique, one comparable to a fashionable disciplinary procedure that is designated a “time-out.” The childhood environment of the writer/answerer was replete not only with highly dysfunctional households, but (providentially) with many corresponding refuges for traumatized young victims of these plentiful incubators of discontent. An accommodating friend’s house often was employed as a safe-haven, and the ultimate refuge, accessible just a few miles away, was thousands of acres of national forest to temporarily retreat into once a basic knowledge of camping skills rendered this recourse viable.
Think on these things:
Why do I teach my child to obey- for my convenience or his good? It may be slightly heretical to immediately answer “both,” but this is the correct answer. Even a dutiful and obedient child will still require an enormous investment of your time and energy to ensure that they are properly brought-up. The investment is much greater when a child is willful, intractable, and disobedient. Obedience expedites the training process, and is good for both trainer and trainee.
What kind of family do I present to the world? The family of the answerer is not an “immediate” family, and the control and influence he may possibly be able to exert over them is only through example, and not by direst command (or even suggestion, as every member possesses an incredibly thick skull, including this writer/answerer himself). When they come together for occasional funerals, they present to the world an appearance of unity and mutual respect, but the reality beneath appearances is one of division and acrimony. They are all like characters in a John Cheever story, negative object lessons in the transmission of dysfunctionality from one generation to the next. They all stand desperately in need of Jesus.
If I find that one method of discipline is not working, do I continue using it, try another, or give up? The necessity for discovering effective techniques for dealing with each individual child will involve a process of trial and error, ultimately evolving into a form that is best suited to the individual child’s temperament. A spirit of consistency must be maintained in the process of implementing any ad hoc modifications of your technique, however (a seemingly contradictory statement). It is abrupt shifts in procedure that are most harmful to the child. When the North Koreans were perfecting the science of “brainwashing,” they took advantage of the bad reaction all people (not just children) have when they are handled in an inconsistent way.
When father and mother disagree over discipline, what happens to the child? The state of confusion described at the end of the preceding answer is the unfortunate result of disagreement between parents as to the means whereby a child can be best disciplined. Another point from another previous answer notes that these disagreements over policy should not be manifested before the children, but rather be first resolved behind the scenes. If you have ought against your spouse, first go and make peace with them; then you may…
Are my words few or many? It is diplomatic to remain taciturn in the presence of those who equate silence with wisdom (a Solomonic conceit). Regarding the subject of child guidance, Ellen G. White advocate the sparing, but precise use of words for the direction of children. This is analogous to a remark a music critic once made of the keyboard style of Thelonious Monk- “He doesn’t play too many notes, but the ones that he does play are all the right ones!”
Do I see that my commands are carried out? Self-motivated people can faithfully and conscientiously carry out tasks without the constant oversight of those who have commanded (or in the case of punctilious and thin-skinned grown-ups such as the writer/answerer, “politely requested”) that a task be performed. Other aspirant commandment-keepers are more labor intensive for management, for they require incessant motivation and cheerleading to keep them “on-task.” Younger children mostly fall into the latter category, but it is sign that they are developing, and is also a sign that you doing right by them, when they acquire the ability to motivate themselves. This is of greater importance to the development of good work habits than even a knowledge of the skills necessary to perform a task.
Name one method I have found to be beneficial in my home. At home, and equally important, away from home, it is expedient to accept imperfect work should perfection lie beyond the capabilities of a person who may be delegated to perform a job. Some freedom to choose the methods whereby a task will be accomplished is an important component of making a job interesting to the worker. If there exists any flexibility in the way in which a goal is to be accomplished, then you must cheerfully (and not grudgingly) delegate a measure of control over the work process to your subordinates. As long as the end result is satisfactory, you are advised to not intrude yourself too energetically into the task at hand (unwelcome intrusions that are denoted by the contemptuous label “micromanagement”). One of the keys to instilling the virtue of self-control into others is the ability to delegate authority, however circumscribed this delegated authority may be. The person you are training will cherish the widow’s mite of authority that they are entrusted with. Should you inadvisably decide to callously snatch it back from them, then you are in the same category as King David when he took for himself the single sheep that poor Uriah possessed for himself, despite being already in possession of a large flock of sheep. You must be consistent in the way that you interact with others, be they young or old.
Section XI- Faulty Discipline
Read pages 271-290.
Check your knowledge:
What is the key to a child’s heart? (271:1) Love
What often makes prodigal sons? (271:2) Too much freedom
What will indulgence unsettle for time and eternity? (272:4) Gratification (indulgence)
For what must parents answer in the judgment? (273:2) Their wicked indulgence of their children
Complete: “Parents should not lightly pass over the sins of their children.” (273:3)
When children have not learned to obey, what will they develop? (274:1) They will have weak, impulsive characters
When do we become accessory to a child’s sins? (276:1) When parents and guardians overlook and excuse sin in those under their care
When indulging children, to whom do we give them? (277:2) Satan
When will “fashionable piety” have little value? (278:1) In the hour of death
Complete: “Be what you wish your children to be.” (278 :2)
Complete: Parents should reason from cause to effect with children. (279:2)
What are we to give our children courage to do? (279:3) That they can improve and gain your confidence and approval
Complete: “Continual censure bewilders, but does not reform.” (281:0)
What attitude may a parent’s arbitrary course of action stir up? (282:0) An attitude of discouragement
What three things are parents not authorized to do? (282:4) (a) fret (b) scold (c) ridicule
What excites impatience in children? (283:1) Impatience in the parents
How often is a child to gain disciplinary advantage over its mother? (283:3) Never
Name two things that cause great harm. (283:4) A lack of firmness and a lack of decision
What kind of parents wreck the happiness of their children? (284:1) Undecided and overindulgent parents
What parental attitude may destroy a child’s confidence? (285:1) The refusal to indulge innocent and harmless desires of the child
What will parental severity stir up in children? (286:1) Severity in dealing with their errors
In what manner are we never to speak to our children? (286:3) An irritable and nervous manner (scolding)
Complete: “It is proverbial that grandparents, as a rule, are unfit to bring up their grandchildren.” (288:1)
How often should grandparents or other relatives interfere in family discipline? (288:1) Never
How many times may impertinence be tolerated in a child? (288:2) Not even once
How far apart is it well for related families to live? (289:2) More than a few miles, at the very least
Why is distance between related families best? (290:1, 2) Near-relations are prone to second-guess and criticize the techniques of the parents
Rate yourself as a child trainer: Inspire them/Confuse them- The employment of some unpolished skills (bad musicianship, bad artistic ability, an inarguably bad literary style & etc.) to illustrate whatever point I may eventually find myself attempting to communicate will possess equivocal utility (principally because youth are perfectly capable of discriminating between second-rate and first-rate examples of these skills). Additionally, a good grasp of whatever subject matter is to be conveyed to potential students will be partially negated by a tendency to deflect from the primary thread of instruction into too many discursive and irrelevant pedagogical back-alleys.
I encourage my child most by (a hypothetical anticipated scenario) by not dampening their spirits or optimism, for the future is be bright for every youth.
I discourage my child most by (another hypothetical anticipated scenario) prematurely terminating the process of instruction just because I perceive that their attention has wandered away from the lesson. This inattentiveness is never the fault of the child, however, but exclusively lies with the instructor.
Discuss with others:
What will weld the hearts of parents and children together? The natural affections that exist between a parent and a child are a good foundation to build upon. The superstructure that is erected above must be a thoroughly grounded in the Word of God. An incessant effort to live according to Biblical precepts will unite any family, and will serve to keep them united.
How are prodigal sons made? Satan plants the seeds of prodigality in all children. They may feel (especially in their adolescence) that they would be better off if they were completely in charge of their own affairs. The deceptive allure and facile approval of the world draws them away from those who truly have their best interests at heart, into a far country where protestations of goodwill are all just veneers for the destructive influences of most people, places, and things. Beware! Go home!
Just why is it a sin to indulge children? Much of the White Estate compilation of writings by Ellen G. White that is the subject of this questionnaire is concerned with the inborn tendency for children to go astray. By indulging this proclivity, the parent stands in danger not only of imperiling their children’s souls, but their own as well (again, the “leitmotif” of Child Guidance).
Taking the word of a child versus the word of an adult Christian. The protagonist of J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield admits that he is an accomplished liar. The love of truth must be learned, for it does not come naturally. One would hope that an adult Christian understands the importance of truth to a much greater extent than many (if not most) children. Some children will lie to protect themselves from censure, but perverse young adults such as the fictional young misanthrope created by Salinger will lie just for the fun of it.
Discuss the heavy burden of the spoiled child as he matures. An unrealistic conception of the world is the result of the child’s inborn misapprehension that they are the center of the entire universe. A “heavy burden” will be inevitably be placed upon the child’s shoulders as the “compass of the moral universe” directs corrective mayhem against this presumptive misapprehension.
What are the effects of lax discipline on a child’s religious experience? A knowledge that sin not only has relatively immediate consequences, but also eternal consequences is temporarily or even permanently forestalled when a child is unable to associate wrong actions with timely and just reprisals for these wrong actions. God is gracious and forgiving up to a point where we should be able to recognize when we are in error, repent, and then forebear to repeat this error. Without the law (or the parent) to serve as a “schoolteacher,” the seeming lack of earthly consequences for sin may be incorrectly perceived by the child to represent a laissez faire enforcement of discipline by God Himself.
What about relaxing discipline as a child reaches the teens? The nature of the discipline that is required to manage a teenager may differ qualitatively from the kind that a younger child requires, but it will not be reduced in quantity. The tactical approach that is suited for the very young must transition into a grander strategic vision. Reasons must accompany corrective actions, or the teenager will convince themselves that you are behaving in an unreasonable manner. The quantity of time formerly expended upon course corrections must now be reallocated to a proper study of the art of navigating through the rocky shoals of life’s ocean. Teenagers are at a stage where they can easily convince themselves that they are smarter than their parents. The wisdom of the Bible, however, is hard to refute when it is properly presented to teenagers. Teens are much hungrier for higher truths than most parents are able to improvise, so it is advisable to consult life’s Holy rule book.
What about bringing questionable amusements into the home? The quaint and antiquated euphemism “questionable amusements,” a description that may have been communicative at the time that Ellen G. White was writing instructions about child guidance would require an enhanced level of emphasis to be applicable to the gargantuan cesspool of unwholesome media content that unsupervised modern youth are incessantly surrounded by, and constantly stand in danger of falling into. Bunyan referred to this cesspool as the “slough of despond.”
Discuss the effects of faultfinding by parents on children. A word used in the discussion about the preceding comment, “incessantly,” will be aptly recycled for this short discussion. Parents who find fault “incessantly” in their children are in peril of losing their authority and credibility. Although a child may be wrong some of the time, or even most of the time, it is not expedient to treat a child as if they were wrong all of the time. The danger is present that, like the Queen of Sheba before Solomon, there will be “no more spirit in them.” Constant barrages of criticism will serve to erect an impenetrable barrier between you and your child.
What are the natural reactions to harsh discipline? In slavery days, any attempt to escape slavery was a natural reaction to what could euphemistically be described as “harsh discipline.” If disciplinary techniques are not in line with the offense, then a child will assuredly seek to escape this discipline spiritually, and perhaps even physically as well. As is the case with too much “fault-finding,” children will sense the injustice of the parent, and discipline will cease to be effective (even though the abrasive administration of this impotent discipline will remain painful and traumatic to its intended target).
Discuss: Asking (requesting) or ordering children to do things. A manager in a workplace who was raised in a well-mannered and nurturing home as a youth respects the forms of address that re best suited to enlist the sympathies of subordinates, and maintains the polite fiction that their subordinates are fundamentally free to either follow or reject their commands (they are indeed free, should they chose to simple react to a command by just walking off the job). Less well-mannered individuals (Germans, stereotypically, and select Americans of the writer/answerer’s acquaintance, for example) will assume that God has sanctioned their authority in the manner of the “Divine Right of Kings,” and therefore do not feel obliged to treat their subordinates in a courteously. But this seemingly judgmental statement has little relevance to the art of child guidance. While it is preferable to be mannerly with one’s child, a necessity to be direct will arise frequently enough. In these cases, God does sanction your authority, and therefore the veneer of courtesy can be dispensed with in the context of a potentially life-threatening emergency. “Put that cigarette down immediately!”
Discuss: Ridicule and taunting. More Rousseau-like revelations- when the writer was a child, the writer’s father used to ridicule him for watching cartoons. This act was considered by his father as an activity only babies indulged in. There must have been some painful childhood experience behind these inexplicable and recurrent instances of ridicule. Ironically, the writer’s father was a great connoisseur of the Three Stooges. Even though he was but a child, the writer/answerer was aware that the Stooges were a live-action analog to most animated cartoons. This ridicule served only to diminish the overall credibility of the writer’s father.
What about unnecessary restrictions and denial of reasonable privileges? Reject the “unnecessary” and preserve the “reasonable.” This automatic response quibbles with the form of the question. The leading nature of the two adjectives makes any discussion very difficult. Here, therefore, is a space-filling truism- It is good to be good! It is bad to be bad! Amen!
14. Discuss: Grandparents and discipline of children. It is very true (as Ellen G. White sagaciously observes) that grandparents do not make the best disciplinarians. The writer was not an abused child, precisely, but the insensitivity and inconsistency of much of the discipline that he received from his well-intentioned, but occasionally misguided parents made it sometimes necessary to seek temporary asylum from its continuous administration. Without the safe-haven of a grandmother’s house, he writer would have been much more miserable as a child than he was. Upon reflection, many proclaim that their parents were smarter than they gave them credit for when they were younger. The writer/answerer does not claim that his parents were not smart, nor that they did not have his best interests at heart, but he has grown to retrospectively accept some of his parents’ methods to be either effective or totally acceptable. Memory serves not as a model, therefore, but rather as a cautionary tale. The inertia of life often witnesses what preachers describe as a “generational curse.” These are partially perpetuated by adults who incapable of learning as youths not only how to ace, but how not to act.
How does the ratio of distance and near relatives relate to home happiness? Mathematicians would describe this as an “inverse ratio,” but the personal experience of the writer/answerer, as described in the discussion of previous “talking-point” #14, may constitute one of the rare exceptions to the rule. This makes the inverse ratio more like a theorem, rather than an axiom. This exception to the rule keeps it from being a “general theory,” so it could be better described as a “special theory.”
Think on these things:
Do I love my child, or am I indifferent to his need of discipline? Indulgence of a child’s whims is not true love. The Biblical citation that certifies this is applicable to children of all ages. It is Hebrews 12:6- For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. This does not advocate a literal scourging, unless perhaps every other approach to correction has failed.
Am I like Eli or Elisha? Eli did OK with Samuel, but dropped the ball badly with is natural sons, Hophni and Phineas. Elisha was a protégé, and not a mentor in most Bible student’s minds, so the writer/answerer choses to emulate Elijah instead (a very arrogant assertion, as everyone knows that Elijah was a type of Christ; yet it is considered very acceptable to emulate our Savior. This is a noble, if difficult aspiration).
Do I encourage disobedience in my child by being indecisive? Consistency is key in the application of discipline, and a parent should not protract a judgment unless this protraction is intentional, a form of “dramatic pause” that will emphasis some pending action. If a parent does not know their own mind, then it is inevitable that indecisiveness will be the result. Ellen G. White advocates that the parents prepare themselves thoroughly before they assume the sacred responsibility of raising a child. Reading the Bible is a good way to commence a personal journey toward acquiring the attribute of decisiveness.
Am I causing my children to despise religion by my harshness? The twin categories of admonition and edification in the presentation of the Word of God are not opposites, but are rather complimentary (like two sides of the same coin). Before the advent of electronic amplification, preachers who needed to address a large assembly were obligated to raise their voices to be clearly heard in the back row of the assembly hall or outdoor gathering. When radio was in its infancy, both singers and preachers persisted in the habit of practically screaming into their new-fangled microphone. The result was a “harshness” of delivery style. Crooner Bing Crosby was among the first to discover that it was no longer necessary to sing at top volume. This was the key to his success. Likewise, Pastor Bob Jones enjoyed a similar level of success by addressing his radio audience in a conversational tone. Despite his antediluvian social attitudes, he was an effective disseminator of the Gospel, and offerings returned by his grateful listeners allowed him to create an enduring institutional legacy. When Franklin Roosevelt sought to enlist the sympathies of the American people for his bold political agenda, he did so via the medium of his famous “Fireside Chats,” a similarly intimate and effective approach. Ellen G. White’s good advice predates all of this mid-Twentieth Century broadcast history, but her admonition to parents that they maintain tranquility and decorum at all times foreshadows later developments in effective communication techniques.
Do I refuse my child simple pleasures for fear he will do wrong? A spirit of discernment is a necessary accessory for the proper guidance of any child. The denial of simple, harmless pleasures may cause the object of this deprivation to overcompensate as an adult by seeking pleasures that are not so simple, and not so harmless. Satan has masterfully concocted a vast inventory of refined abominations.
Do relatives interfere with my discipline? Ellen G. White writes that near-relations are prone to second-guess the means whereby the parent seeks to mold their children. It is due to the closeness of their relation that they will assume grants them the authority to meddle, and the distance of their own households from that of the victims of their interference that serves to insulate them from the consequences of their interference. The crews of high-altitude bombers note that they do not feel remorse for the victims of the bombs they drop. They are all far, far below, and unseen by the victimizers.
Name one way I have inspired my child today. Inspiration is best instilled by setting a good example for youth to emulate. Here it is again- “To love God, and to do His will is the whole duty of man,” and therefore the whole duty of every parent as well. We witness through our actions much more forcefully than by our words, so today the writer has sought to represent Christ, rather than his own inborn selfish and sinful nature. Did he succeed? Partially.
Section XII- Development of the Mental Powers
Read pages 293-336.
Check your knowledge:
What two parts of a child does true education develop? (293:1) (a) The physical powers (b) The mental faculties
What is the first great lesson in education? (293:3) To know and understand the will of God
Complete: “In God’s plan there is no place for selfish rivalry.” (294:1)
(a) Where was the first school located? (294:2) In the Garden of Eden (b) Who was its first teacher? (294:2) The Creator Himself (c) What was its first textbook? (294:2) Nature
In educating youth, what should be combined? (295:2) Practical training and literary training
What spirit should true education awaken? (296:1) To practice an unselfish ministry
What science will the highest education teach? (296:4, 297:0) The science of Christianity
What spirit are our children not to imbibe? (298:1) The spirit of the world
When is true education completed? (298:4) It will progress, but will never end
Where should the first eight to ten years of life be spent? (300:1) The field or garden
In the first six or seven years, what training should be emphasized? (300:3) Physical training
What are the first habits to be taught a child? (301:1) Habits of industry (to assist with housework) and a close study of nature
Complete: “Do not send your little ones to school too early.” (302:1)
When children attend school, what kind of instruction are they to receive? (303:2) Christian instruction
On what foundation should all education be based? (304:1) A Scriptural foundation
Complete: “Christian parents, you must make provision for your children to be educated in Bible principles.” (305:1)
In what way does secular education confuse our children? (305:2) It teaches falsehoods
Complete: “Schools should be established if there are no more than six children to attend.” (308:3, 309:0)
Why should parents sacrifice to create church schools? (309:0) Ellen G. White does not mention sacrifice in this section, but does mention the abundance of potential facilities
What shall be the character of the work done in our schools? (310:2) Of the highest order
What is the relation of the church to its children? (312:2) It is a watchman
How is the expense of our schools to be borne? (313:1) By everyone
What is the church to do for children who cannot pay tuition? (314:1) The church should assist with tuition for the poor
What is the relationship of our mission giving to our investing in the education of our children? (314:4) Education in our country should not be secondary to missionary work
To parents who think of sending their children to public schools, what question is asked? (315:1) Is it right that I should subject my beloved children to potential contamination?
What united objectives are parents and teachers to have? (318:1) To develop the child physically, mentally, and spiritually, and also to develop character
What may make the work of a Christian teacher fruitless? (319:3) Parental neglect of child discipline
Why should parents and teachers counsel together? (322:1) Both groups will be encouraged and strengthened
What kind of parents will not criticize the teachers? (325:3, 4) The kind who are good stewards of their offspring
What are our schools to become more and more like? (329:2) The schools of the prophets
How many of our youth are to have the benefits of Christian education? (332:1) All of them
Why should children not attend school the year round? (333:1) The monotony of continual study wearies the mind
To whose authority are parents to pledge support? (334:2) The teacher’s authority
Rate yourself as a patron of the school: As an impoverished alumnus, the writer’s support is limited to sweat equity and prayer.
My best (recent) contribution to the school is the spreading of resilient rubber particles under the school’s playground equipment, no small task! (BCJA, Fall 2016)
My least contribution to the school is never having given them a dime, at least directly (claims of poverty do not cut the mustard with God, and if cash on hand should be unavailable, a true Samaritan with credit should cheerfully go into to support Christian education).
Discuss with others:
Discuss the meaning of true education and its goal. Another compilation of Ellen G. White’s writings, Education reveals that true education is education about Jesus. The goal is salvation, both of oneself and others.
Why shall our schools not foster rivalry? The spirit of cooperation is more in the spirit of Scripture than the spirit of rivalry.
How are practical and literary training to be combined? Why? The literary life (book learning) is preparatory to the application, in the real world, of lessons and techniques learned from books. Literature (professional journals, instruction manuals, etc.) should continue to inform the practice of one’s vocation. All vocations are ministries!
Why will true education extend into eternity? Implications? Since God is both omniscient and unlimited, it is impossible to ever fully absorb His knowledge, for His ways are, and shall remain much higher than our own.
Discuss: “Infancy extends to the age of six or seven years.” A six or seven-year-old child still considers themselves to be the center of the universe (and not a few oldsters cling to this misconception as well). Maturity is attended by a concern for others that is equivalent to one’s concern for self. Sainthood requires that you esteem the welfare of others above your own.
When should a child first attend school? A child should not attend school before they have enjoyed an extended opportunity to absorb the lessons of nature “in field and garden.”
How does secular education neutralize Bible truth? Secular education accomplishes this through its direct opposition to Scriptural truth. Ellen G. White advocates a high degree of exposure by the children to Christian precepts, but even this will not serve to inoculate a child against the disease of secular education, should they be subjected to this on a daily basis.
Why is the church school vital to the education of our children? Christianity is the route whereby a child can serve mankind and God best. A secular education is focused upon how we can feed our belly, and with the most unwholesome foodstuffs imaginable (a metaphorical reference to the godless curriculum of public schools).
Discuss the financial responsibility of the church for the school. Citations by Ellen G. White in Child Guidance reveal that she recommends that the church assist in defraying the expenses that the families of indigent pupils are unable to pay. Members are the church, so all are responsible helping to bear the financial burden that will ensure that the purity of our children’s minds will not be compromised by a secular education.
Compare “teamwork” by parents, and also by parents and teachers. The members of a team all work together. They coordinate the means whereby a goal will be accomplished. Parents constitute the primary players on the team that is responsible for the proper upbringing of a child. This fundamental roster gets augmented when the child reaches the age where they begin school. It is important that the school share in the goal of the parents, and of the Lord. If you heed the recommendations of Ellen G. White, then this goal will be the formation of a Christian character. The general and intensive oversight of the parents is supplemented by more specific, and relatively limited input from teachers. If the teacher is committed to the same goal as the parents regarding the child’s eduction, then the parents need not intensively coordinate tactics with the teacher. They can rest assured that the child is in good hands. Frequent communication and coordination between parents and teachers is recommended, but not to the degree that is required between parent and parent.
Discuss: The teacher is a supplement to the home. A “supplement” is an addition to something that already exists, and enhances the purpose or constitution of the original substance. Home training is the fundamental substance of child guidance. Development that occurs outside of the context of the home is therefore supplemental in nature, and not fundamental. Jesus acts like a catalyst- a reagent that changes a substance without being changes itself (the writer/answerer has long awaited a good opportunity to use this analogy).
Discuss the effect of parental criticism of a child’s teachers. The discussion of point 10, just above, reiterates the importance that the child enjoys a Christian education. The Word of God is an unambiguous guide to the implementation of this type of education. If any disagreement arises between the parent and parent, or between parent and teacher, then either parent, or teacher, or both has not properly apprised themselves of God’s methodologies for the resolving any, and all contentious situations. A timely consultation of Scripture will forestall criticism. There should therefore be no cause for disagreement between parents, or between parents and teachers, for they will be all on the same page.
Why should our schools become more and more like the schools of the prophets? In what respects? Chapter 58 of the work by Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets is titled The School of the Prophets. These schools are revealed to not only be concerned with the spiritual development of the student, but the mental and physical aspects of their natures as well. Here is an informative sentence concerning the genesis of these institution taken from page 593 of Patriarchs and Prophets- In Samuel’s day there were two of these schools–one at Ramah, the home of the prophet, and the other at Kirjath-jearim, where the ark then was. Others were established in later times. These schools used divers methods to seek the will of God for the lives of men. This geographical info has no bearing on the nature of these schools, but is too interesting to not include in this answer.
Discuss paragraphs 2 and 3 on page 336: Never-ending education! Although the writer/answerer cannot discover the concept of “never-ending education” on page 336 of Child Guidance, he recalls noting this phenomenon in a previous section of the study guide. Unfortunately, the document has grown so large that he cannot easily rediscover he citation. Here is an extremely brief discussion about the topic, created extemporaneously- Since the knowledge of God is without limit (the congruence of omniscience and infinite extension in time and space), then we will never be able to learn everything that God could conceivably teach us. Even if our lives are eternal, the process of education will be unending. One can travel forever through the infinities of time and space and never reach a limit.
Think on these things:
Will a Christian education help my child to do more work or less? By the simple expedient of not engaging in fruitless endeavors like substance abuse, or the consumption of popular entertainment, a successful product of Christian education will have much more time available for good works than the typical recipient of a secular education. While the latter graduates into a lifestyle of drinking beer and watching TV, the former will be (hopefully) relieving the distress of their fellow man, or spreading the news about Jesus Christ. The writer/answerer learned much more than he wished he had about evil habits in the context of a public schoolyard.
Will the school my child is attending now prepare him for the school above? Should the opportunity ever arise, a hypothetical child of mine should receive a Christian education. If funds are not available for a formal venue for this education, then “home-schooling” is a practicable alternative. Time spent with one’s offspring in a state of relative poverty is better than consigning them to the perdition of public education while one is absent at work.
Should my child run the streets for the first eight to ten years of his life? Ellen G. White recommends that children up to the age of six or seven be suffered to run rampant amongst “field and garden,” but “streets” connotes an unsavory and unwholesome environment not only in our present era, but in that of Ellen G. White. It is in the public realm, unsupervised, and amidst peers and strangers that the worst possible character flaws can be acquired by a child.
If there is no school in the church I attend, should I move, or encourage the church to open one? Yes! And yes yet again! Six young souls in need of virtue will suffice for the nucleus of a church-school, writes Ellen G. White.
Am I a problem to my child’s teacher? If I am, I should not be. Assuming they are in the will of God, and correctly instill into the child proper Biblical precepts, then it is the prerogative of the teacher to negate the ham-fisted meddling of a parent by exclaiming “I will brook no interference with my teaching methods!”
Do I keep my child in school the year round? If I did, I would be in violation of Ellen G, White’s advice upon this topic, and in danger of subjecting my child to “burnout.”
Do I ever criticize my child’s teacher? As previously noted, if a knowledge of God is being effectively taught by a teacher to one’s child, then the parent should neither criticize, nor interfere with the teacher’s methods, for these teachers are truly beyond criticism.
Name one way I have helped to make my school more like the school of the prophets. The “holistic” approach that Ellen G. White describes as a significant attribute of the schools of the prophets should be advocated and adopted by all educators, parents and teachers alike. This approach mandates not only that a variety of disciplines and techniques be utilized in a curriculum, but that they also be well-coordinated (an Italian named Giambattista Vico pioneered this holistic approach for the scientific analysis of history in a manner that is similar to the later development of Ellen G. White’s comprehensive “great controversy” theme).
Section XIII- Primary Importance of Physical Development
Read pages 339-368.
Check your knowledge:
Name three things that will add to health, vitality, and development of mind and body. (339:1) (a) To oft be in the open air (b) To have well-regulated employment (c) To have well-regulated amusement
To what body system does power of the will give energy? (339:4) The nervous system
What will increase strength the most in the young? (340:1) A proper exercise of all the muscles in useful labor
Name the greatest curse to children in this age. (340:4) Inaction (indolence)
Complete: “Selfish amusements are dangerous to the morals.” (341:2)
Who are happiest and healthiest? (342:1) Those who are always busy, and who cheerfully go about their daily tasks
What will the discipline of systematic, well-regulated labor do to the character? (342:3) It will cause it to be pure and virtuous
What will refresh the student’s mind? (343:0) The study of physiology
Complete: “The health should be as sacredly guarded as the character.” (343:0)
What did employment bring to our first parents? (345:1) Their greatest happiness
Complete: “His [Jesus’] life was one of diligent industry.” (346:1)
What are youth to be taught concerning life’s meaning? (347:1) That life means earnest work, responsibility, and caretaking [stewardship]
What habits should manual training develop? (348:3) Habits of accuracy and thoroughness
Name the dangers in neglecting to teach our children to work. (350:2) Untold evils
How many children should share in home duties? (350:4) Each (meaning “every”)
For what are boys and girls equally accountable? (351:3) The proper use of time
Complete: “Muscles need exercise… Let their exercise be to some purpose.” (352:1)
How can parents draw their children closer to Christ? (352:2) By encouraging a spirit of unselfish service in the home
What will a clear conscience do to the intellect? (353:1) Quicken and invigorate it
With what should young men grow up? (355:1) A trade
In what should fathers and sons work together? (355:5) Their trades and employments
What is one most valuable area of manual training? (356:2) Agricultural pursuits
With what special value in foods need we become acquainted? (357:1) The special value of fruits and vegetables fresh from the orchard and garden
If you must have a one-sided education, which shall it be? (358:2) Practical education possesses greater survival value than bookish theories
Where is the source of all our acts? (360:1) The mind
What is the relationship of body organs to the mind? (360:2) They are in servitude to the mind
What subjects should be the basis of all educational effort? (361:0) A knowledge of physiology and hygiene
Complete: “The laws of nature are the laws of God.” (363:1)
Where are God’s laws written? (363:1) Upon every nerve, muscle, and fiber of the body
What is next in importance to correct posture? (364:4) Respiration and vocal culture
List God’s true remedies. (366:1) (a) Pure air (b) Sunlight (c) Abstemiousness (d) Rest (e) Exercise (f) Proper diet (g) The use of water (h) Trust in divine power
Complete: “I must have wisdom to be a faithful guardian of my body.” (367:0)
Rate your attitude toward health: I exercise and attempt to eat a balanced diet (this balance includes the opposing loads of intentions and finances; unfortunately, it cost slightly more to eat healthy food. American manufacturers deeply discount unhealthy food, principally because they produce so much of it. A honey-bun costs less than a fresh orange!
I observe the following health habits- Veganism (a trendy term for what Ellen G. White describes as the original table fare of mankind). I am gratified to discover that she feels that the expenditure of energy (exercise) is best directed into purposeful channels (works), and am curious as to what her reaction to modern fitness clubs would be. I attempt to combine exercise and good works, and am intermittently successful in this attempt. As previously noted, I cannot afford to eat as well as I should. My work is not compensated by cash; only happiness.
I need to improve by shifting from starches and sweets to much less destructive (but, alas, relatively costly) fare.
Discuss with others:
How to build muscle tone; healthful action of body organs. Muscle tone is developed by using your muscles. As noted, good works can be accomplished in conjunction with physical exercise.
The place of the willpower in maintaining good health. One hallmark of a successful athlete is their ability to override the signals that their bodies send which warn the mind that the body is overexerting itself. The mind directs the body to continue, despite its objections. This is an example of willpower in action. As less heroic instance of the will in the service of healthy living is the refusal of some toxically decadent dessert at the end of a meal.
How can children develop mental and physical faculties? Ellen G. White advocates the study of physiology as prerequisite to the development of physical strength. Mental development is tied into physical development and an adherence to guidelines for healthy living. On page 346 of Christ’s Object Lessons, Ellen G. White writes this- Anything that lessens physical strength enfeebles the mind, and makes it less capable of discriminating between right and wrong. This linkage of health directly to morality was very innovative when it was written. This writer will now link moral judgment to mental development by asserting that a person seeking to develop their mental faculties through scholarship must take care to select only wholesome materials to study. This is a great argument for Christian education.
Indolence–the curse of the age. When Ellen G. White was writing her good advice to posterity, another person named Thorstein Veblen wrote a book called The Theory of the Leisure Class: An Economic Study of Institutions. By the end of the Nineteenth Century, the stratum of society that did absolutely nothing but eat and drink and sleep had greatly expanded in size. While it was still a minority of the total population, the nascent cult of celebrity managed to publicize the lifestyles of the so-called “leisure class.” Working class people fantasized that they, too, could totally eschew labor. Ellen G. White rightly identifies the contemporary equivalence of indolence with prestige as constituting a “curse.” It is a curse that persists to this day. If there is truly dignity in labor, then it should follow that there is shame in indolence. But these people are not in the least bit ashamed! Here is a quote from page 347 of Child Guidance- The world is full of young men and women who pride themselves upon their ignorance of any useful labor; and they are, almost invariably, frivolous, vain, fond of display, unhappy, unsatisfied, and too often dissipated and unprincipled. Such characters are a blot upon society and a disgrace to their parents. Some of these characters are not a disgrace to their parents at present, for they are third and fourth generation scapegraces, here at the close of history. They may be designated the “trust fund crowd,” endowed with just enough of a legacy to allow them to contribute nothing to humanity. These bad examples motivated Andrew Carnegie to give away practically all of his fortune to charity, rather than to allow it to corrupt his descendants. A very recent study reveals that most of the wealth of the planet is now inherited, and not earned. The apostle James would doubtless deliver some choice comments upon this scenario. The writer/answerer has had an involuntary association with what can be designated the “idle rich.” They are an insufferably proud lot, yet, ironically, they have nothing to be proud of.
The relationship of the conscience to mental and physical health. There is a saying that goes “A healthy mind and a healthy body,” which implies a link between mental and physical soundness. Ellen G. White’s recognition of this interrelation of the physical and mental life extends even to our moral nature (see discussion point #3 above). Here is another saying- “The satisfaction of a job well done.” It is this satisfaction that is indicative of fundamentally good morality (…I will show you my faith by my works), and the result is a good, or a clean, or an easy conscience.
The blessings of poverty. Poverty can serve as a spur to industry, and Paul famously directs one of his correspondents to withhold food from those who do not work. In the mid-Twentieth Century until this day it is possible to exist in some urbanized locales of the world without working (Atlanta, Georgia for example- a city replete with cases of so-called “gentile poverty” at both extremes of the economic scale), but the general condition of humanity can be best described by the adage “Root, hog, or die!” Poverty can either insulate a person from temptation, or (much less typically) be a provocation for sin. Christ said “blessed are the poor in spirit…” Christ Himself came from a poor family, for all but a very few were poor in the time that He dwelt upon the earth. Persons who have adequate food, clothing, and shelter should not be considered as impoverished. This group includes the majority of Americans at present. Yet prevalent misconceptions promulgate the fallacy that mere adequacy is not nearly enough. It takes a special breed of person to despise others based upon their lack of material blessings, but this breed indeed exists. The writer/answerer, by now a person of relatively wide experience, has regrettably encountered many callous representatives of this breed. Insensitive and judgmental people, like the poor, will always be with us (“always” must be qualified, for it is only descriptive of our present, but thankfully soon-to-conclude age).
Work and happiness–their relationship. The discussion of point 5, above, is also applicable to this point.
The discipline of systematic, well-regulated labor. It is best to carefully plan a task prior to its performance. Although it was principally God, and only secondarily her environment that formed the worldview of Ellen G. White, she dwelt in an evil day. A contemporary of hers was the first to wage large-scale war in a systematic and well-regulated manner. His name was Helmuth Karl Bernhard Graf von Moltke, and he was the creator of modern techniques for deploying military forces. For thirty years, he was chief of staff for the German (Prussian) army. Moltke planned and led the Prussian armies in the Franco-Prussian War (1870–71), which paved the way for the creation of the Prussian-led German Empire in 1871. This was not a particularly godly use of systemization, but godly persons are encouraged to emulate Moltke’s track record for more godly endeavors. Although results of his organizational skill can be considered to be the opposite of “godliness,” it is impossible to deny that is was well-regulated.
Seeing the science of work. A personal opinion of the writer/answerer is that absolute efficiency is similar to the total imposition of the will by a parent upon a child. Ellen G. White recommends that the will of children not be crushed by allowing them no opportunities to make decisions on their own. A German-born manager arrived as a replacement for a much less authoritarian manager that just departed from restaurant that the writer/answerer was employed in. The new leader’s first statement was “I know that you have had your own way up until now, but in the future you are going to be doing things my way.” By the grace of God, he then proceeded to leave the writer/answerer free to do his work in the manner that he was accustomed to, without interference. He had the sense to recognize that a 5% gain in efficiency would simultaneously eliminate 100% of the enthusiasm the writer/answerer brought to his efforts. There exists such a thing as being “too efficient.” This mildly heretical assertion may be likened to Paul’s statement in Second Corinthians 3:6- He has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter, but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit produces life.
Should boys be taught to do housework? These skills could come in quite handy, according not only to Ellen G. White, but also according to the dictates of common sense. While we are on the subject, maybe girls should be able to change a flat tire (see next answer).
Should girls be taught the mechanics of the family car? This question is an inversion of the preceding question furnished to us by the creators of the Study Guide for Child Guidance. The correct answer is yes.
Exercise with a purpose. Some portion of the answer to a question asked in section C of the portion of this study guide concerning Chapter 13 of Child Guidance will be duplicated to illustrate this concept- “I am gratified to discover that she [Ellen G. White] feels that the expenditure of energy (exercise) is best directed into purposeful channels (works), and am curious as to what her reaction to modern fitness clubs would be.” The writer/answerer attempts to combine exercise and good works, and is intermittently successful in these attempts.
Is there any real need to teach agriculture today in our schools? Agriculture was the dominant occupation in America when Ellen G. White was writing the advice that was excerpted for the compilation Child Guidance, but the importance of this most ancient of vocations will endure as long as the earth will endure. Every family with the opportunity to do so should cultivate a home-garden. An old Tennessee farmer of the writer/answerer’s acquaintance once made this remark- “All these young people eatin’ food, and don’t even know the first thing about makin’ it!” The old farmer had very little to say about anything that was positive, but with this statement he identified a serious shortcoming of modern youth.
The laws of nature and the laws of God. The laws of nature (exclusive of whatever deterioration resulted from the Fall of Man) are the laws of God.
Remedies prescribed by the Great Physician. The natural world is a natural pharmacy, and cultures that have maintained ancient healing traditions have not lost their knowledge of remedies that God has provided for the treatment and cure of various maladies. Most synthesized pharmaceuticals have a natural counterpart, and one that is better suited to restore health than anything concocted in a test tube.
Importance of regularity. “Regularity” is a euphemism related to the bowels at present, but a broader definition would be “the assiduous completion of recurrent tasks.” Although Ellen G. White advocates that no child be assigned to a specific job for periods so protracted as to render the child disenchanted with whatever task may be at hand, some mundane labors demand faithful regularity. Milking a cow is an important recurring chore, not only for the milkmaid, but for the cow as well. A full udder makes a cow uncomfortable.
Think on these things:
Do I teach my child to share cheerfully the burdens of life? Family teamwork in the performance of a task is a good introduction to work, as it teaches good work habits by example, and in a mutually supportive environment. A good attitude toward shared burdens (and all burdens are shared, for “no man is an island unto themselves”- John Donne) will be infectious, and transportable to the time when the child begins to perform tasks in concert with those beyond the family circle.
Do I teach him that work is essential? Some work is essential. American society recognizes a category of industries, professions, and occupations that are labelled “essential services.” Even if you happen to be an indolent plutocrat, someone else is essentially obliged to labor that you might survive. Genesis 3:19 records God’s proclamation to Adam (and, by extension, and by inheritance, to us as well)- By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.” Ellen G, White remarks elsewhere in her writings that this required labor is a great blessing to fallen mankind.
Do I work in the open air as much as possible? Inclement weather excepted, it is always more invigorating to labor al fresco. Some professions require this, such as construction work, and manning an an old-time “tall” ship.
Does my child know how to cook? Rather than force a child to memorize recipes, or to a lifetime of consulting books of recipes, it is much better to instill into them a “theory of cuisine.” This is not as difficult as it may initially seem to be. Most of the dominant menus of the world revolve around a few key ingredients and seasonings, and a few easily learned techniques.
Do I have a knowledge of physiology and hygiene? The focus on personal health has blossomed in the consciousness of the American public since the time of Ellen G. White’s heath vision, and to large measure because of the radical nature of this vision. Most people, however, continue to eat badly, not get much exercise, and persist in habits which are self-destructive. Almost everyone (but not absolutely everyone) who is able to now bathes regularly, an accomplishment for which we have the advent of indoor plumbing to thank. There no longer exists any good excuse to not maintain good hygiene.
Am I regular in my eating and sleeping? Regular habits are best practiced when synchronized to a regular schedule. The writer/answerer does well enough until providence decrees that an unexpected circumstance will temporarily demolish his normally well-ordered routine.
Do I see that my child is regular in his eating and sleeping? Not having a child under my direct care, I can only answer for my cat. She eats regularly (a monotonous, but apparently healthy diet). She sleeps almost continually. This is God’s way of conserving the energy of predators who inhabit the top of the food chain, and are not obliged to continually eat as do cows and hummingbirds. Though toxic, and temporary, a diet of meat is highly concentrated (albeit in an unclean way).
Do I have a good posture? The position that best contributes to good posture is a standing position, and I am blessed to spend up to half of my waking life standing. My spine thanks me, but my feet continually register their protest!
Do I use my voice as I should? Enunciation and respiration are linked phenomenon, and proper speech is always in synch with proper breathing. All of the vocal exercises on earth, however, could not serve to improve the writer’s regrettable singing voice. He anticipates great improvement in the very near future (should he be counted worthy of eternal life).
I have spent 3 hours in outdoor labor today.
Section XIV- Maintaining Physical Fitness
Read pages 371-410.
Check your knowledge:
Who occupies a most important position in our homes? (371:1) The one who prepares the food
What is more important to a girl’s education than even piano? (371:2) Homemaking
Complete: “Life’s happiness is bound up with faithfulness in common duties.” (371:3)
Which is the most valuable of all arts? (372:1) The art (and science) of cooking
What is every woman’s double duty? (372:4) To know how to cook, and to pass on this knowledge to your daughters [et al]
What is our religious duty? (373:2) To learn how to prepare healthful food in a variety of ways, so that it may be both palatable and healthful
From what are more souls lost than we realize? (373:4) Poor cookery
What weakens the blood-making organs? (374:1) Scanty, ill-cooked food
Complete: “Young ladies should be thoroughly instructed in cooking.” (375:3)
How can barriers against folly be built around daughters? (376:2) The art of cookery
What two things are both boys and girls to be taught? (376:4) How to cook economically and to dispense with everything in the line of flesh food
Complete: “Skill, economy, and tact [in cooking] [in the art of recycling leftovers, actually] is a fortune.” (376:5)
From what does the body repair broken-down tissues? (378:3) Nutritional sustenance
When should a child’s eating habits be formed? (379:1) The training should begin with the infant
What will care and regularity in the feeding of infants tend to make them? (379:1) Quiet and sweet-tempered
By what are spiritual, mental, and physical powers affected? (380:0) The influence of unhealthful food
List four things originally placed in man’s diet. (380:1) (a) Grains (b) Fruits (c) Nuts (d) Vegetables
From what two things should our diets be free? (380:2) (a) Spices (b) Grease
What tendencies does the use of flesh foods strengthen in us? (382:1) A tendency to “animalize” us
Why are flesh foods doubly objectionable now? (382:3) Disease in animals is so rapidly increasing [the objectionableness of flesh food may be said to have trebled with the postwar (the “good” war”) practice of injecting hormones and antibiotics into livestock. The writer/answerer has personally injected cattle with these substances]
Complete: “Many die of diseases wholly due to meat eating.” (383:0)
All who are waiting for the Lord’s return will eventually do away with what type of food? (383:2) meat, of course!
What foods contain all the needed properties to make good blood? (384:1) See Counsels on Diet and Foods, pp. 81-97. (a) Grains (b) Fruits (c) Nuts (d) Vegetables
Complete: “There should not be many kinds [of foods] at any one meal.” (385:1)
What is to be banished at mealtime? (387:1) Everything that can burden or irritate
Why should meals be eaten regularly? (387:4) You do not want to heap fresh grub on top of food that is still in the process of being digested; the yet unprocessed residue of a prior meal you have consumed.
How long must the stomach rest between meals? (389:2) Five hours
What should the breakfast meal be? (390:2) Hearty! [This is a Scottish tradition, you know.]
What is the cause of most of life’s ills? (394:1) Intemperance
Name four things in which excessive indulgence is sin. (394:3) (a) Eating (b) Drinking (c) Sleeping (d) Seeing
In what will God not interfere? (396:1) From the consequences of violating nature’s laws
To what is intemperance in study compared? (396:4) A species of intoxication
On what are we living when we overwork? (397:3) Borrowed capital
If we are temperate, with what will we dispense in eating? (398:3) Everything hurtful
What is the solution to the liquor problem? (401:3) Total abstinence
Where does intemperance often begin? (403:2) At home
Why do tea and coffee injure the nervous system? (403:2) Through the ingestion of caffeine, the nervous system borrows power from its future resources for present use [more “borrowed capital” which must be repaid with interest; i.e. subsequent depression and compromises to one’s nervous sytem. Sweets affect the constitution in a similar way]
Complete: “Those who use tobacco in any form are not clear before God.” (404:1)
In what is our only path to safety? (405:2) Temperance in all things and firm denial of appetite
Where must children be educated in character formation? (407:1) In a position that will facilitate an easy connection with God
How early in life are temperance and self-control to be taught? (408:2) From the cradle
What is to be taught in every home and every school? (408:4) Temperance (& Abstinence)
With what thought are the youth to be impressed? (409:1) That they are to be masters, and not slaves [of unwholesome and/or addictive substances]
Rate how temperate (Over, Right Amount, Under) you are in: Eating MODERATELY TEMPERATE Sleeping WOEFULLY LACKING Working UTTERLY INTEMPERATE Studying A REGENERATE BOOKWORM; BUT ALL IS WELL NOW!
Discuss with others:
Contrast health reform with health deform. The mnemonic device of juxtaposing the terms “reform” and “deform” is a frequently recycled reference by Ellen G. White regarding the consequences of serving “ill-prepared food.”
The relationship of health and happiness with good cookery. Biblical references to the sin of gluttony (one of the so-called “Seven Deadly Sins,” an extra-Scriptural conceit) represent the abuse of food as a source of gratification, but it is not contrary to God’s will to extract simple enjoyment from the consumption of wholesome foodstuffs.
Am I what I eat–mentally, physically, spiritually? To “eat” metaphorical rubbish (regarding mind, body, or soul) is bound to cause painful cases of metaphorical indigestion, metaphorically speaking.
How is the appetite perverted? With “fashion, show, and an excess of variety.” The Nineteenth Century witnessed the rise of the first generation of “celebrity chefs.” French chef Georges Auguste Escoffier was styled roi des cuisiniers et cuisinier des rois (“king of chefs and chef of kings”). Wretched culinary excess was no longer the exclusive prerogative of royalty.
Reasons for discarding the use of all flesh foods. There are numerous compelling reasons for not eating meat. The writer/answerer is concerned with health and nutritional matters, but one of his most compelling reasons for abstaining from flesh foods is rather vain, petty, and self-indulgent- I do not want my breath to stink!
Why must there be no unpleasantness at mealtimes? In addition to harming the digestive process by causing undue emotional duress which is subsequently transmitted to the alimentary canal, it compromises the efficacy of mealtime as a unifying force for the family.
Why never eat one morsel between meals? As noted in a previous answer, to add undigested food to a pre-existing quantity of partially digested food in the stomach will compromise the digestion of both types; the semi-processed and the unprocessed. And, rather stereotypically, “It will ruin your appetite!”
Breakfast–what kind of meal should it be? A passing allusion to the heartiness of a traditional Scottish breakfast can be expanded in this more capacious locale. The “Waverly” novels of Sir Walter Scott are set in the context of the last full-fledged attempt (by recourse to arms, at any rate) the Scottish people made to free themselves from British rule. Several pages are dedicated to a lovingly detailed description of a Scottish “Laird’s” morning repast, which Ellen G. White would probably fault for its excessive variety of dishes (and the offensive presence of salmon, of course), but would no doubt approve of by virtue of its “heartiness.” The prescience of Ellen G. White’s apprehension of the significant role that breakfast plays in sustaining us throughout the balance of the day could have conceivably contributed its mite to the oft ignored modern homily that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” Eat early, and eat hearty, mates!
Indulgence of appetite versus temperance. The extreme extension of “temperance” is “abstinence.” A synonym of “temperance” is “moderation.” The expression “Moderation in All Things” is of Greek origin, but it represents a concept that may be discovered throughout the Bible. The rule that we exercise restraint is an excellent rule to live by. First Corinthians 9:25 is one representative citation from Scripture– And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
What has temperance to do with sanctification? Again, I have answered a succeeding question by answering the preceding one. Kindly lift your eyes to the Bible verse that has been placed a few lines above this one.
What is harmful about tea, coffee, spices, stimulants? Stimulants force the system to make a high-interest loan against future stores of energy. The writer/answerer can testify that this is indeed the case!
Breakdown of body, beclouding of mind, sensualizing the soul. Ellen G. White’s era was plagued by many insidious substances that resulted in these dire consequences. Our more “advanced” era has upped the ante by refining opium into heroin, and one of the original ingredients of Coca-Cola into crack! Gadzooks!
Think on these things:
Am I a good cook? Poverty food is rendered interesting by spices, but lessons learned from reading the extracts included in Child Guidance are causing the writer/summarizer to rethink his potentially deadly love affair with the cuisines of India and Mexico.
Do I eat between meals? When the opportunity presents itself, the writer/answerer regretfully admits that he is what is may be termed a “grazer.” The Spaniards make a kind of cult out of progressing continuously from one dining establish to the next that they may consume a series of small dishes that are called “tapas.” The phenomenon described by this term has transitioned to the United States, but (thankfully) not the bad habit of dedicating an entire day to the consumption process. Notable globetrotter and pothead Rick Steves reports that one of the most popular Spanish “tapas” is deep-fried pig’s ears. No comment!
Do I talk about pleasant things at the table? The negative commentary that invariably attends personal aversion to a particular dish that may be present at table caused the writer/answerer’s mother to suppress such instances of negativity during supper by proclaiming “If you don’t like it, don’t eat it. Just don’t talk about it!”
Am I temperate in my work? No.
Am I temperate in my study? The writer/answerer is currently temperate, but primarily due to a lack of time, and not due to an innate aversion. Ellen G. White would not approve of this, quite naturally, for it is unnatural to live life by proxy, secondhand via the medium of literature.
Do I eat enough? Too much? The scales are a presumably reliable indicator that I am miraculously maintaining a weight that does not fluctuate too wildly, although it seems to vary by at least a few pounds every day. This fluctuation may simply be a matter of proper and improper hydration, however.
Name one thing I as the (husband, wife, son, daughter) can do to make mealtime more pleasant. I must stop multitasking during meals! (Excuse me while I take another bite of food…) Where was I? Oh, right… too much multitasking!
Section XV- Fitting Attire
Read pages 413-436.
Check your knowledge:
God desires our clothing to be: (413:1) (a) Neat (b) Healthful (c) Appropriate (d) Becoming
What three things should characterize our appearance? (413: 2) (a) Neatness (b) Modesty (c) Purity
Of what are our clothes an index? (413:4) Of the man or the woman [“Clothes make the man” (or woman)]
How far are we to follow customs? (414:1) Only insofar as they conform to health principles
Complete: “They should shun extremes.” (414:3)
We are to act as though whose eye is upon us? (415:1) The eye of heaven
How are we not to class neatness and decency in dress? (415:2) With pride
What texts give the Bible’s timeless rule for dress? (416:1) (a) First Timothy 2:9-10 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. (b) First Peter 3:3-5 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands…
Complete: “Costly apparel stifles the desire to do good.” (416:4)
What kind of dress will protect a modest woman? (417:3) Chaste and simple dress
Suggest four characteristics for our clothing. (419:4) (a) Appropriate (b) Becoming (c) Neat (d) Clean
What do we do when we lose taste for neatness and order in dress? (419:6, 420:0) We “leave the truth”
What does the wearing of gaudy clothing advertise? (420:2) Our vanity and pride
Complete: “Our clothing, while modest and simple, should be of good quality, of becoming colors, and suited for service.” (420:3)
Complete: “Practice economy in your outlay of means for dress.” (421:1)
How will others judge our hearts and minds when we wear artificials and gold? (421:5) As proof of our weak minds and proud hearts
Complete: “Any device designed to attract attention to the wearer or to excite admiration is excluded from the modest apparel which God’s Word enjoins.” (423:2)
How careful will Christians be of their dress? (425:1) Nothing should be put upon the person to attract attention or to create controversy
Complete: “It is always right to be neat and to be clad appropriately, in a manner becoming to your age and station in life.” (425:2)
How should one’s clothing fit? (425:3) Easily
How should body extremities be clothed? (426:3) In a manner to induce circulation [not directly exposed to the elements]
What encourages irreverence? (427: 5) Showy apparel
How are we to dress for church services? (428:2) As if you were paying a formal visit to a friend
Complete: “Idolatry of dress is a moral disease.” (432:4)
What does idolatry of dress destroy? (433:2) All that is humble, meek, and lovely in character
When Satan captivates a mother, what are his spoils? (434:0) He reckons the children as among his spoils
Those who spend much time on dress are like what tree? (435:4) The good-for-nothing fig tree that Jesus cursed om His way to Calvary
Rate the way you dress: To formally for most occasions, unless I know that I am about to engage in tasks that will invariably destroy my clothing (in which cases I dress like a ragamuffin)
My most becoming attire is of a type that obfuscates my true parameters (this remark is indicative of a poor self-image)
I could improve on avoiding the use of dress as a display of vanity and conspicuous display, attributes that the Bible does not approve of.
Discuss with others:
What is appropriate and becoming dress? The Amish, as well as some ultra-orthodox Jews have decided that the garments that were in vogue at the time of the creation of their organizations represent the epitome of godliness. These clothes, originally intended to convey a message of chaste simplicity, now serve instead as an indicator of eccentricity. Ellen G. White offers many general guidelines for wardrobe selection, but without getting so specific that the dress of Seventh-day Adventists will grow to become peculiar in the perception of others. Since the advent of Beau Brummel and Coco Chanel, simplicity will never go out of fashion. The denomination will be distinct enough just through the display of relative sobriety in their selection of couture as measured against the world’s unreasonable standards.
How can character be judged by one’s dress? (413, 415) While it is true that “you can’t judge a book by its cover,” it is also true that “the clothes make the man.” Just as the sincerity of our dedication to God is judged by the quantity of time and energy that we invest into promulgating good works, so is our inward character reflected by our choice of what to wear. Slovenliness is not the result of economy when selecting apparel, but is rather the result of poor maintenance. Messages of hope for those in search of meaning for their lives are descriptive of the inward man, and (for better or worse) first impressions are based solely upon appearances. Accommodation to reality requires that sales personnel (even if it is Jesus that they are attempting to sell) first manage to get their “foot in the door.”
When is it safe to follow fashion in dress? When the dictates of fashion agree with Scriptural prescriptions, and we strive to not emulate strutting peacocks in our choices concerning what we wear then it is not objectionable to disguise oneself as a Roman while paying a brief visit to Rome (perhaps Babylon would serve as a better symbol for this wretched present age). An “accommodation to reality” qualifies this answer in the same manner as it did the preceding question. The long polemic poem written by Alexander Pope in 1709, An Essay on Criticism contains this significant piece of advice- “Be not the first by whom the new are tried, Nor yet the last to lay the old aside.”
What is meant by simplicity in dress? (417, 421, 427) For starters, every appearance of evil must be avoided by those who wish to affect and communicate an air of simplicity. “Artificial display” is to be shunned (frippery such as lace and ornament). Ellen G. White expresses her displeasure for a contemporary trend that resulted in a blurring of distinctions of dress between the genders. The author, and the translators of the King James Bible, refer to this phenomenon as “confusion.” A national aspiration to avoid complicated wardrobes in the Protestant Netherlands of Rembrandt’s era was severely compromised when the elite determined that an abundance of ornament was acceptable when confined to the cuffs, upper chest, and neck. Rembrandt saved a lot of time when he utilized rough brushwork to imply this frippery in the portraits of his rich clientele, rather than to faithfully document every strand of costly lace.
Heaven’s dress. Our “righteousness” is what will clad us in the hereafter. Ellen G. White repeatedly asserts throughout her throughout her writing that all we can take with us into eternity is our Christian character. This is composed not only our “inward parts,” but also the complete record of our obedience to God. Faith is the principal component, and the manifestation of this faith by our works is a secondary component. Both our faith and our works are scrutinized to determine whether we will be admitted to heaven. To proclaim a love for God, but to refrain from good works that are evidence of our love for our fellow human beings is hypocritical. “Depart from me…” will be Christ’s pained farewell to the many who were merely hearers, but not doers of the Word.
Should all Adventists dress alike? Uniforms? Uniforms are an excellent way to attire schoolchildren, as distinctions between the income levels of families of these children is eliminated as a potentially contentious factor amongst pupils. This provision precludes vanity and covetousness, and has spread from the private to the public realm. Adult Adventists need only dress similarly, but certainly not identically. The common attributes for all of these disparate ensembles will be simplicity, sturdiness, modesty, and the absence of ornament.
Why not wear feathers, artificials, and extra trimmings? (421-23) Superfluous frippery takes time to arrange (a big waste of time) and money to purchase (a big waste of money). The only purpose of these ostentatious accessories is one that is antithetical to Paul’s (and Ellen G. White’s) injunction that we dress modestly.
What is true beauty? (424) True beauty is a good character. This can endure forever, never to suffer the vicissitudes and ravages of passing time.
Dress to fit one’s age and position. The reference to “positions” that was applicable when Ellen G. White was writing her works is rendered less applicable than it was formerly due to a convergence of the styles of dress between varied income brackets. Often a fashion that is inaugurated by what may have once been described as the “lower class” will set a pattern for those who possess the wherewithal to dress in any manner that they choose to. A distinction, however, can still be drawn between “formal wear” and “casual wear.” There are even intermediate brackets such as the hybrid that is labelled “business casual.” Clothing used to cost much more (as a percentage of total income) than it does at present. The concept of “ready-to-wear” is also of relatively recent origin. The prodigious output of garments by the “first-world” is currently collected after it is perceived its initial purchasers to be expendable, pressed into large bales, and then shipped overseas. It is then purchased wholesale by expatriate “second world” merchants for retail distribution to inhabitants of the “third world.” This hand-me-down scenario is global in extent, and no therefore longer limited to nuclear or extended families. The social distinctions (“positions”) between the primary and secondary clothing consumers are obfuscated by virtue of their being on opposite sides of an ocean, but they are for all intents identically dressed. With regard to the age-appropriateness of wardrobe choices, a common desire to dress modestly also has a leveling effect amongst various age groups at present. A stereotype that the young array themselves in a flamboyant manner (like courting birds) should not be in evidence among Christians in general, and Seventh-day Adventists in particular.
Clothing the extremities- why? The extremities, when exposed to the elements, can be affected to the point that (due to cold, presumably) they can impede the circulation of blood.
Idolatry in dress. When we make a fuss over our own appearance, or that of others, we are setting up idols. Anything that we are in danger of prioritizing before a overarching consideration of God and His laws can be considered an idol. Clothing is but one aspect of a contemporary over-concern with material objects and the ostentatious display thereof. This phenomenon is one aspect of what is referred to as “worldliness.”
How shall we educate children regarding dress? They need to be able to discern between “sensible” and “foolish” varieties of clothing. The parents are to set a good example that the child may emulate.
Think on these things:
Are my clothes neat? Usually.
Are my clothes healthful? They are barriers to exposure. This preserves health.
Are my clothes appropriate? I have become all things to all men…
Are my clothes becoming? Insofar as placing lipstick on a hog can render the hog becoming.
Are my clothes clean? Temporarily at least, until they are invariably soiled again.
Are my clothes modest? Yes, holidays excepted.
Are my clothes of good quality? The writer/answerer’s wardrobe consists of used merchandise for the most part, but a requirement to obtain size 13 narrow footgear necessitates the acquisition of a name-brand, and therefore subsequently expensive product. Unfortunately, no article of apparel is less enduring than a pair of shoes, and the majority of the relatively shoes that are currently available cannot be re-soled.
Do my clothes fit properly? My existing wardrobe is sized for my existing frame. Parsimony dictates that the writer/answerer neither gain nor lose weight!
Name one way I can “preach the gospel” by my dress. An extreme case- I do not wear tee-shirts with tasteless, profane, or chauvinistic images or slogans plastered upon them. Decorum in dress inspires trust and confidence in new and nearly-new acquaintances, so this is therefore (as previously noted) an important component of evangelical tactics.
Section XVI- Preserving Moral Integrity
Read pages 439-468.
Check your knowledge:
Name two things that arouse lust and corrupt passion. (439:2) (a) Books (b) Pictures
What is the special sin of this age? (440:1) Licentiousness
What exists in some Sabbath-keeping families? (440:3) Sin and vice
Whose minds does Satan try to debase? (440:4) The minds of youth
The violation of what laws has caused present-day social sins? (441:0) The violation of [unspecified] principles or conscience; and a forsaking of industry and thrift (as evidenced by idle, spendthrift habits).
Of what name are those unworthy who do not control passions? (441:2) “Christian”
What is most responsible for race degeneracy? (441:3) Moral pollution
What does one corrupt mind sow in others? (443:2) Evil
What does secret vice do to the brain and nervous system? (444:1) It leaves the system exposed to disease of various kinds
List the diseases that may grow out of self-abuse. (444:2) Pains in the system and various diseases, such as affection of the liver and lungs, neuralgia, rheumatism, affection of the spine, diseased kidneys, and cancerous humors
By what fraction are intellectual powers reduced by this sin? (445:3) One half or one third of the brilliancy of intellect that they might have had [had the self-abuse not occurred]
What will pampering of natural appetites do to self-government and spirituality? (446: 2) The “animal propensities” will overwhelm the higher echelons of our mind’s command and control system.
To avoid sensuality, where is the mind to dwell? (447:2) On elevated subjects [a legendary object of deflected thought is the subject of baseball, but this is not particularly “elevated”]
Complete: “Parents do not know that secret vice is destroying and defacing the image of God in their children.” (449:2)
With what three things do many surround themselves in a wrong atmosphere? (449:2) (a) Dress (b) Looks (appearance) (c) Amusements
What may love stories and romances do to the mind? (453:0) Engender daydreaming, and “castle-building” [this answer is conjectural, as literature is not mentioned on page 453]
What is a mother’s duty toward her young daughter? (455:3) To show her her place, to restrain her, and teach her what belongs to a girl of her age
From infancy what vital lesson are children to be taught? (457:1) Self-control
Of what can mothers never be too careful? (457:4, 458:0) The prevention of their children from learning “low habits.”
When may sensuality in children be blamed on parents? (458:2) Transgressions, and a lack of prayer by the parent may open the door to Satan’s entre into the lives of your children.
With what must a child’s mind be balanced to keep his morals pure? (460:1) Religious principle
Why should children not sleep together? (460:2) It will be far easier to prevent an evil than to cure it afterward…
Why should meat never be placed before children? (461:1) Its influence is to excite and strengthen the lower passions and [it also] has a tendency to deaden the moral powers
What are we to teach children about their bodies? (461:2) That God is not pleased to see them with unclean bodies and untidy, torn garments
To what will idleness lead? (462:1) To the indulgence of corrupt habits
If we earnestly pray for pure thoughts and refined imaginations, what will God do? (463:1) He will bless their [both parent and child, presumably] endeavors, and cleanse them from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit
To be saved, what three things must we govern? (465:1) (a) if the passions and affections are made subject to reason (b) conscience (c) and character
What causes the imagination to become hopelessly diseased? (465:3) When their ears hear that which is evil
How many can control their passions, if they will? (466:3) All [everyone] do [can]
Rate your attitude toward sex: It is not 100% seemly to link the concept of divinity to the sexual act, although many preachers do so, and many congregations listen these homilies with itching ears. It is not an evil in the context of marriage, but neither is it particularly holy, since birds also do it. Bees also do it. Even educated fleas have been known to do it!
I believe parents should instruct their children for the following reasons: (1) Satan is the headmaster of a school that provides a horrific alternate course of study about “the facts of life,” and potential pupils who have not been properly educated in this subject in the controlled context of the home are automatically enrolled in this institution. Tuition is free, but he alumni will have to eventually pay dearly for the destructive lessons that it teaches. (2) This second reason is simply a less obscure version of reason number one: the natural proclivities of the child in this dangerous, yet ubiquitous aspect of life are bound to lead them in the opposite direction from God’s will for them. The inherent Dionysian nature must be countered by an Apollonian appeal to reason. The id must be subsumed to the superego (Freud’s useful, but misapplied terminology). Nature untempered by nurture can lead to catastrophic consequences. The title of a famous engraving by Goya says it all- “The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters!”
Parents should send them to… public school so that they can attend Sex-Ed? This could not possibly be the intended answer to this cryptic question. Parents should send them to… the woods, there to spend days and nights in fasting and prayer that they might overcome this great sin? (from section 452.3) This is not a sensible response either. Here is a variant based on the occasionally ambiguous use of the word “should.” Parents should send them to… the Devil himself, should they neglect to properly apprise their children as to the necessity for abstinence. Paul mentions this last recourse in First Corinthians 5:5- To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. Every parent must work hard and pray even harder to prevent such a painful deliverance (or “sending”) of their children from folly.
Discuss with others:
God’s purpose for sex. Procreation! If it is secondarily pleasurable, this pleasure must be circumscribed by Scriptural precepts such as First Corinthian 6:16- What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. First Corinthians 7:9 reflects the common condition of mankind- But if they [the unmarried] cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. Both Paul and Jesus Himself are not averse to celibacy, should this rare manner of living prove practicable. Backing up just one verse from the one just cited, Paul writes- I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I. Paul, a man strongly connected to God, could control his passions.
What have books and pictures (moving and still) to do with today’s sensuality? The misuse of words and images in the service of perversion is as old as the pursuit of literary and artistic endeavor. If prostitution is indeed the “world’s oldest profession,” then writing about prostitutes, and creating pictures of prostitutes may be the second and third oldest professions. “Today’s sensuality” has historically been nothing but the latest downgrade of “yesterday’s sensuality,” and this persistent descent, and its attendant degradation of morales, will continue until the final trump is sounded.
Why is Satan so determined to debase the youth? Satan, like the Marquis de Sade, experiences an abominable “pleasure” when he causes pain to the innocent.
Are parents responsible for oversexed children? How? The creator of the Graham Cracker felt that too great a fixation on sexual matters was the result of an overstimulated palate, and created his eponymous snack to be a bland, and therefore inoffensive alternative to spicy fare. Ellen G. White’s views on this subject are similar, but not as extreme as Graham’s. But the primary culprits responsible for bad behaviors in children are a lack of instruction, a lack of supervision, and negligence in the development of the spiritual side of a child’s character.
Why the prevalent homosexuality? Homosexuals are legalized in the USA, but the primary contribution to their prevalence is the outstanding job that they do in reinforcing the validity of each other’s lifestyles. They also convince unenlightened bystanders that there is absolutely nothing wrong with being a homosexual. Here is a direct quotation of a very near relation of the writer/answerer- “There is nothing in the Bible that is against homosexuals!” By contorting the meaning of Scripture, is possible to claim that this statement is true, as God is not “against” anyone. He does not condone sin, however, and neither does his spokesmen Moses and Paul.
Venereal diseases. The AIDS epidemic is not in abeyance, but treatment is infinitely more effective than it used to be. One day (should the Lord delay His return) the microbes of planet earth will have all developed resistance to antibiotics, but instances of unprotected sex (all sex outside of the confines of matrimony could be described as “unprotected” from a grace standpoint) will continue apace, undiminished, and with increasingly significant physical consequences. The nature of the unchanging spiritual consequences is unknown to those who have not accepted Christ as their guide, so they continue to engage in unacceptable acts.
Effect of overindulgence on the brain powers. The figures of one-third to one-half diminution of thought capacity are noted by Ellen G. White. If you don’t possess an abundance of wits to begin with, then being rendered a “half-wit” can be especially debilitating!
Fortifying the mind against temptation. Prayer and frequent immersion in the Word of God are effective bulwarks that may be opposed to temptation’s incessant siege.
Are parents awake to their children’s sex behavior? If they are not, they should be! Although not ultra-luxurious, the writer/answerer’s childhood home was very large. The parents may have reassured themselves that their offspring, and their offspring’s young houseguests were safely at home, and under supervision. From a disciplinary standpoint, however, they were (figuratively speaking) millions of light years away. This state of negligence can be illustrated by the following maxim- “Out of sight, out of mind!”
Self-control over appetites and passions. Parental control must eventually transition into self-control, and Ellen G. White indicates that the ability to exercise self-control is one of the chief purposes (if not THE chief purpose) for child guidance. The construction of a “Christian character” that will endure beyond the confines of childhood is impossible without self-control.
How to keep children pure minded. A quote from Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking Glass will serve as an apt metaphor for the method whereby our minds, and those of our children get soiled and sullied- “If you drink something from a bottle labelled ‘poison,’ it is certain to disagree with you…” Parents must prevent their children from ingesting metaphorical poison.
Your children’s associates–spending the night with others. Unless a matron or chaperone happens to be present, it is folly to allow nocturnal proximity between children.
The influence of diet on sex impulses. A previous anecdote about the genesis of the seemingly uninteresting Graham Cracker will be alluded to in this place, but not repeated.
Indolence versus exercise and their effects on purity. Exercise is a good alternative to indolence, as “idle hands are the Devil’s workshop.” Exercise will redirect and serve to deplete energies that might otherwise be channeled into inappropriate activities.
How can we control the mind and keep it pure? We must Meditate upon the Holy Bible. Salvation is its awe-inspiring theme. It’s all about a sacrifice at Calvary. It’s all about the Lord’s redemption scheme. [lyrics from a very obscure Gospel song]
How Bible study affects the mind and nervous system. Bible study never hurts, and it always helps. It is as close to a panacea as anything else in Creation. It is a safe and effective “nerve tonic” (“nerve tonics” may have been the placebo forebears to the psychiatric medications of today).
Think on these things:
Do I teach my child that the sex organs are sacred? It would be difficult to convey this seeming paradox without a slight attitude adjustment by the writer/answerer, an extremely prudish individual. If God crated it, however, it must be OK. Ellen G. White attributes the existence of evil actions and objects to Satan, alcohol be representative of this category.
If my child regards the sex organs as cheap and common, will he have eternal life? Not if this disregard leads to the unnatural or inappropriate use of the apparatus under discussion.
If I desire life, will I abuse the organs that reproduce life? It is not well-pleasing to the Lord to engage in this abuse, and it is He alone who bestows life, maintains life, and can protract life indefinitely.
Do I allow my child to sleep with others? If you do, stop doing it. If you do not, don’t start!
Do I censure my child? What is a better way? Calm explanations, attended by comprehensible (to youth) Bible verses that are germane to the explanation are better than instilling an abiding, and potentially crippling sense of guilt into the child. This guilt could plague the censured child for the balance of their life, and compromise any “legitimate” sexual activity. The quotation marks around the word legitimate are indicative of the writer/answerer’s, as well as his virgin’s (a reference to First Corinthians 7:38) continuing ambivalence regarding this topic.
Do I answer all questions pertaining to life? Should the occasion present itself, it might represent a novel and innovative approach to introduce a child to such an overwhelming quantity of physiological and societal data that “all questions” (save those that will remain forever unknown to temporal mankind) could be potentially be answered by the child themselves. This mountain of erudition would create a good foundation upon which a future career in medicine or psychology could be based.
Do I remember my body is not mine, but is God’s temple? Whatever we do, we are to do it to the Glory of God. The problematic behaviors that Ellen G. White addresses in this chapter of Child Guidance are extremely difficult for prudish types to describe as “glorious,” but in the context of a monogamous and sanctified relationship they are not considered to be sinful.
Name one way sex draws one closer to God, the Author. Bernini’s resplendent altar-piece that is known by the name “The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa” is representative of the writer/answerer’s conflicted personal views about sex. Is the woman having a transcendent spiritual experience, or is she having an orgasm? I will say no more for now…
Section XVII- Arousing the Spiritual Powers
Read pages 471-502.
Check your knowledge:
Complete: “One of the greatest dangers that besets God’s people has ever been from conformity to worldly maxims and customs.” (471:2)
Who are generally responsible for unfitting youth for life? (472:1) Parents
If Christ is in the home, what will mothers do? (472:3) They will educate their children from their very babyhood in the principles of true religion
Complete: “The sin committed by parents in thus permitting Satan to bear sway is beyond conception.” (473:0)
For what are parents responsible? (474:1) The lives and souls of their children
How much of their time must parents give the children? (474:4) All the time that is necessary to make them understand what it means to obey and trust the Lord fully
From what are parents to awaken? (475:1) Their “deathlike slumber”
What is the one great hope for the whole family? (475:2) Religion in the home
Where is our most important field of missionary service? (476:4) The home
What is one great need of the home? (477:2) Every day parents should be receiving the Word of truth and letting it control the life
Name four things involved in the cost of saving our children. (479:1) (a) Unflagging effort (b) Patient effort(c) A mother’s tears (d) A father’s prayers
Under what circumstances may we fret at and scold our children? (480:1) Not under any circumstances
What is the only safeguard for the young? (480:3) A knowledge of the character of God and our obligations to Him (The religion of the Bible)
For what is the family a training school? (482:1) For the performance of religious duties
How may parents best mold their children’s characters? (482:2) By leading a consistent life and exercising self-control
What connection is needed to discern right from wrong? (484:1) A reliance upon divine aid in their [the parents] difficulties and dangers
When does God want to adopt children into His family? (486:2) At a “tender age”
For what are parents to train their children? (488:3) For the courts of God
What is the foundation of all enduring reformation? (489:5) The law of God
In what years may children be taught personal religion? (490:4) Children of eight, ten, or twelve years are old enough
When is a child to learn that he needs salvation? (491:0) If properly instructed, very young children may have correct views of their state as sinners and of the way of salvation through Christ
What is true education? (494:0) Religion
Complete: “Teach them to form characters that will live through the eternal ages.” (494:2)
How often are children to repent of and confess sins? (494:3) Daily
In what teachings should our children be instructed? (495:1) Sound doctrine, the great pillars of our faith, the reasons why we are Seventh-day Adventists- why we are called, as were the children of Israel, to be a peculiar people, a holy nation, separate and distinct from all other people on the face of the earth
How may evenings in the home be well spent? (495:3) A well spent evening will be devoted to the instruction of the children in the way of righteousness
Obedience to God involves obedience to whom else? (496:1) The parents
What is even more important than book education? (497:3) “Heart” education
Where will children’s feet not walk without parental cooperation? (498:3) In safe paths
Complete: “We must live in harmony with our prayers.” (499:1)
Do children belong to God before baptism? (499:2) Yes
With what are we never to taunt our children? (501:0) With being baptized and yet doing wrong
As parents and teachers work to save the children, what may they expect? (502:1) A harvest from the seed they sow
Rate your interest in eternal life: All important, although occasional lapses would seem to belie the writer/answerer’s stated extreme level of interest
My main desire is to do the works of God while it is day, for no man can work at night.
My least concern is what the opinions of people may think about me, as long as feel as if I am upsetting my Creator.
Discuss with others:
The curse of the indifferent parent. A general pattern of unconcern, punctuated by traumatic periods too much attention is descriptive of the writer/answerer’s parents’ relationship to him. No attention is preferable to what he (mistakenly) perceived to be “fair weather” attention, so he avoided his parents whenever this was possible. This avoidance was, in retrospect, due to his adolescent misapprehension of his parents’ general intent. The inattention of the parents was equated with indifference, but it was rather, in truth, only a byproduct of too many conflicting business and social obligations that claimed the lion’s share of their time. The writer/answerer has no intention of duplicating this level of absenteeism from the important work of parenting, although he readily admits that he was an overly-sensitive youth, and not particularly easy to deal with.
The future of the undisciplined child. As ye sow, so shall ye reap. An secular adage that is commonly used to warn against the negative consequences of self-administered guidance by physicians can be modified to apply to undisciplined children- “A child who teaches themselves has a fool for a teacher.” The future of the self-guided child will inevitably be a tragic one.
The noblest mission field- the home. Ellen G. White has made this observation, and while it may be true that the children of ancient Sparta were raised communally and separated from their natural parents, the nuclear family one confined to (just parents and children) is the principal crucible for the formation of a child’s character not only in the so-called Western world, but increasingly in the balance of the nations of earth. Anthropologists note that this global contraction of the more traditional “extended family” allows the breadwinner(s) to relocate himself (or herself, or themselves) very quickly should personal career advancement or national interest require such relocations. The seemingly improvisational nature of capitalism is best served by smaller family units, and the trend toward streamlined households had well begun (at least in the United States) at the time of Ellen G. White’s ministry. The more intimate venue of the nuclear family can augment the level of direct instruction of the children of these compact units, and diminish the level of questionable interference in the training process by well-intentioned, but nevertheless counterproductive near-relations.
Gauging Christianity by the home life. The nature of an element may be discovered by examining a single atom of the element. Similarly, the character of an entire society is the result of what transpires within the fundamental building blocks of the society. This is the home, of course, and a preponderance of Christian households will serve to create a Christian nation.
Training our children to be workers for God. All meaningful work is work for God. The employee handbook is the Bible, and your immediate supervisor is the Holy Spirit. The firm that employs you is the Church Triumphant, and this firm’s sole competitor is Satan.
Conversion and baptism of children. The child, prior to the Romantic Age, was nothing but a miniature adult. Romantic sensibilities managed to distinguish the nature of childhood from that of adulthood. But when it comes to the subject of acceptance of Jesus, attendant repentance and obedience, and the symbolic ratification of this transformation by baptism, children should not be romanticized as innocent waifs. They must be instructed early in their lives to acquire a mature level of understanding regarding the conditions and requirements of church membership. It is premature to encourage the baptism of a child before they have attained the highly variable “age of discretion,” but this age is not tied to chronology. Proper Child Guidance can ensure its early onset.
Soul training, physical and mental training. A comprehensive guidebook of the best methods for developing the spirit, mind, and body of a child would require hundreds of pages of precepts, all of which should be based on Scripture. Where can such a resource be found? A compilation of fragments addressing this subject, written by Ellen G. White and titled Child Guidance is a good resource, and is easy to obtain.
The more important heart education. A very memorable Bible verse is Jeremiah 17:9-The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? This heart, should it not prove to be so hardened as to be unamenable to positive influences, can be rescued from its “desperate wickedness” through the agency of Christianity. By training a child to live righteously, we emulate God’s capacity to remove from them [our children] their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. (Ezekiel 11:19, one of several Scriptural descriptions of this miraculous transformation)
Stumbling-block parents. It may sound like a platitude (but is nevertheless an eternal truth) that parental influences should all be positive, and all further the development of good character. Ineptitude, and perhaps even the malevolence of parents will impede forward progress. Replicated just below is Second Corinthians 6:3-6, indicative of the level of dedication and the proper attitude that a parent needs to exhibit to effectively raise a child for future of service to God- We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love… (NIV)
Helping baptized children to grow in grace. Like tender young shoots buffeted by inclement weather, the newly baptized require nurture and protection (whatever their age may be). Satan is exceptionally attentive to fresh Christians, and many converts undergo a “trial by fire” at this stage of their journey to eternity. The path is stony, but Peter has provided fair warning about this in First Peter 4:12- Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you… Christ Himself has graciously condescended to both put us on our guard and offer us solace in John 16:33- These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Surrounding children with spiritual meetings. Church is always (one would hope) a positive place to be. Even if the level of discourse may be too advanced for the child to comprehend, they may at the very least bask in the metaphorical sunshine that emanates from a gathering that is focused on affairs of the Spirit.
Think on these things:
Am I unfitting my child for the realities of life? Ephesians 4:6+, possibly the fourth or fifth most renown passage in Scripture, admonishes us to Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. If you, as a parent, fail to properly fit your child to a well-forged suit of spiritual armor, then they will be horribly “unfitted” for life.
Am I truly converted? Matthew 7:20 reveals that …by their fruits ye shall know them. Often the works that the writer/answerer routinely demonstrates are only instances of what he considers to be “eyeservice,” or good public relations. He feels as if he has not yet attained an internal level of conversion that satisfies God’s highest standard. This could prove to be impossible (for his righteousness is akin to filthy rags), so God’s grace regarding the writer/answerer’s disparity between intentions and actions is much required, and much appreciated! “I am not really working hard; I am just pretending to work hard” is a phrase that often escapes his lips. Work is indeed performed, despite the worker’s continual self-censure that is a result of his feeling as if he were no better than a whited sepulcher. A “truly converted” Christian ought not to feel this way.
In what spirit do I teach religion to my child? A good salesperson has faith in the product that they are selling, and effectively communicates their enthusiasm to potential customers. Spiritual topics should be instilled into a child with a spirit of sustained enthusiasm.
Do I make my instruction pleasant? Boredom in a child that is a consequence of a lack of enthusiasm on the part of the parent or Bible instructor (see previous answer) is avoidable if the instructor is enthusiastic themselves. Once again, you have to believe in the product that you are selling. Children are quick to detect false enthusiasm, as they all possess excellent built-in hypocrisy detectors.
Do I give my child enough time? Ellen G. White strongly condemns the sin of inaction (idleness, indolence), so time may be parsed and apportioned, but it should never be wasted. An honest attempt to answer this question raises the question- Enough time to do what? An obvious answer is “time enough to absorb a lesson before move on to the next one.”
Do I realize I am responsible for the life and soul of my child? If you do not realize the extent of your responsibility for the life and soul of your child, then you have not only neglected to read the first paragraph of Ellen G. White’s Child Guidance, you have also failed to read most of the balance of book. The initial statement discloses what the writer of this answer has referred to as the leitmotif of the book. Your responsibility for your child’s soul is also consequential for the fate of your own! This is an awesome responsibility.
Name one way I as the (husband, wife, son, daughter) can make the evenings at home delightful and profitable. Unplug the TV and computer, grab a Bible and a hymnal, and then laissez le bon temps rouler (let the good times roll)!
Section XVIII- Maintaining the Religious Experience
Read pages 505-552.
Check your knowledge:
What writings are superior to those of any other? (505:1) The Holy Bible is superior to the productions of any human author
Through what avenue are we placed in communion with God? (506:2) Through His Word
What will be imparted to the soul by Bible study? (507:2) Energy
With what will we never be satisfied if we catch a glimpse of great Bible truth? (509:1) Trivial, sensational subjects
As an educator, where is the Bible to stand? (510:2) The Bible should stand first
How often should the family study the Sabbath school lesson? (511:4) A little time each day
Complete: “The Bible has a fullness, a strength, a depth of meaning, that is inexhaustible.” (513:1)
On whom can we not depend to save us? (513:2) The minister
Name three things the teaching of the Bible should have. (515:1) (a) Our freshest thought (b) Our best methods (c) Our most earnest effort
If we are to save our children, what must guide us? (515:2) The Bible
In every family what should be erected [reared]? (517:1) Its altar of prayer
What is prayer? (518:1) Prayer is communion with God
What kind of family worship will God not accept? (518:3) A mere form, a dull, monotonous repetition of set phrases in which the spirit of gratitude or the sense of need finds no expression
What do angels do for praying saints? (519:1) Angels offer the smoke of the fragrant incense for the praying saints
When does the heavenly universe see our families? (519:1) Morning and evening
For what are we to ask God every morning? (519:2) We should plead fervently with God to keep ourselves and our children [the family] through the day
How can we daily make a hedge about our children? (519:3) Morning and evening, by earnest prayer and persevering faith
May we ever safely neglect family worship? (520:4) The hour of prayer should not be neglected for any consideration
What are the three parts of a well-organized morning worship? (522:0) (a) Not pray about everything (b) express needs in simple words (c) Praise God with thanksgiving
Complete: “Make the [worship] season one of interest and joy.” (524:2)
To whose prayers are heaven’s gates open? (525:4) For every mother who would lay her burden at the Saviour’s feet
How do parents and youth often break the fourth commandment? (527:1) By seeking their own pleasure upon God’s holy day
(a) From what are our hands to rest on Sabbath? (527:3) From worldly employment (b) What is to receive special attention then? (527:3) The soul’s needs
Of what is Friday to be a day? (528:2-5) The preparation for the Sabbath
How should families greet the Sabbath? (529:1) They should assemble to read God’s Word, to sing and pray
Where are we not to waste Sabbath hours? (530:2) In bed
On the Sabbath where is the whole family to go? (530:3) Public worship
Who should explain the sermon to the children? (531:3) Parents
Describe the Sabbath meal. (532:2) Simple, palatable and attractive
What about children’s play on the Sabbath? (533:2) It should not be done
Where may parents and children well spend the Sabbath? (534:1) Outdoors
Complete: “The Sabbath should be made so interesting to our families that its weekly return will be hailed with joy.” (536:2)
What grace should be carefully cherished? (538:1) The Precious Grace of Reverence
What should all learn concerning God’s name, Word, place of prayer, and house of worship? (538, 539) His Name Is to Be Revered, His Word Is Sacred, God Is the place of prayer., and children are to enter the sanctuary of the house of worship with sobriety and reverence
During church services, where should children sit? (542:1) The section seems to indicate (but not directly) that children need to sit with their parents during worship services
Where should children go who disturb a church service? (544:1) Outside the sanctuary
Complete: “Practice reverence until it becomes a part of yourself.” (547:0)
Complete: “Make the home life as nearly as possible like heaven.” (548:3)
Where do children learn how to act in church? (549:2) The home is a school where all may learn how they are to act in the church
If religion reigns in the home, where else will it be found? (550:1) In the church
Complete: “After the family then comes the church.” (551:2)
Complete: “The religion of the family will surely be brought into the church.” (552:2)
Rate your attitude toward prayer: It is a joy [and a privilege) to communicate with God
What I like most about prayer is it gets results!
What I wish most is to increase the amount of time that I devote to prayers of gratitude.
Discuss with others:
Why is the Bible the greatest Book on earth? The Bible can answer all questions, including this one. Second Timothy 3:16 states- All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…
What does Bible study do to the mind? Other people can contribute to the improvement of our minds, and Proverbs 27:17 notes that- Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. But the knowledge that we can gain through conversation is valueless unless it if based on the font of all wisdom. Its utility as a metaphorical “whetstone” is infinitely superior to every derivative gloss or exegesis. A sustained effort to absorb its stated and implied precepts will constitute the essence of the eternal (for those who will be privileged to experience eternity) learning process. Although it is indisputably sufficient for the ordering of our relatively brief lives, the depths of its wisdom cannot be plumbed in just one lifetime. First Corinthians 13:12 serves to both allude to these hidden depths, and to ostensibly counter the existence of an eternal learning process- For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. A pet theory (hopefully not a heretical one) of the writer/answerer is that the unlimited capabilities of God has resulted in the inclusion of what can be regarded as “unsearchable depths” within the text of the Bible, layers of meaning that mortal man is incapable of comprehending without a supernatural augmentation of their understanding. First Corinthians 2:9 is a verse that points to this concept- But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
How is the Bible a safeguard to the home? The “hedge of protection” that Ellen G. White describes in Child Guidance as being God’s provision for the home is provided by Scripture.
How to make Bible study interesting for children. Keep it simple! Keep it short! Spoon-feed Scripture to spiritual fledglings (Paul compares this to the weaning of a child). A baby bird’s parents masticate their fledgling’s food before they pass it on.
No family worship–the prayerless home. A household that does not incorporate incessant consideration of, regular connection to, and vigilant obedience to God may be likened to the absence of the ark of the tabernacle in one’s parlor. It is temporarily enfeebled. Without this this divine presence, the family could be considered as having legally changed their name to Ichabod (there is no glory).
When the heavenly universe looks in at your door. Section 525.4 of Child Guidance cites the ability of prayer to open the gates of heaven. A second operation is necessary to allow the heavens entry into your home. You must open the front door of your home yourself! A consideration of symbolic gates and doors would be incomplete without quoting Revelation 3:20- Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
Family worship. When? How often? If the home is to be considered a local manifestation of the greater church, then a regular schedule of times devoted to worship is recommended. Morning and evening worship serves as “bookends” to the day, and will consecrate all activities that lie between these services. The more frequently you worship God, the greater the blessings, so you may choose to supplement the routine with midday worship. Three times a day was the number of times that Daniel faced Jerusalem from chamber place of his captivity to praise and thank his Creator.
Making family worship interesting for children. Ellen G. White recommends that family worship be rendered noxious to a child. The answer for the preceding question 4 regarding techniques for making Bible Study interesting to children is also applicable for worship styles. The message must be crafted to be “age appropriate” (modifications that Ellen G. White also advocates regarding wardrobe selection), and must take into consideration the limited attention spans of children. We must not craft a liturgy that is so tedious that the child anticipates the termination of the domestic service to be like a deliverance from captivity.
Sabbath worship periods–how to conduct. Adventist Fundamental Belief #20 has distilled proper Sabbath conduct to its essence, so an extract from this distillation is universally applicable (but, regrettably, not universally practiced) whatever may be the age of the aspiring commandment-keeper- The fourth commandment of God’s unchangeable law requires the observance of this seventh-day Sabbath as the day of rest, worship, and ministry in harmony with the teaching and practice of Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath. The Sabbath is a day of delightful communion with God…
How to remember the word remember- fourth commandment. Ellen G. White writes that prior to any effort by parents to instill the good habit of “remembrance” into their children is to remember the Sabbath themselves.
How to prepare for the Sabbath on Friday. We should lay out our garments for the morrow, and follow Christ’s command that is recorded in Matthew 5:23-24- Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. God’s gift of the Sabbath should be reciprocated through our gift of obedience.
Attending Sabbath services–Sabbath clothing, etc. The parents are to array their progeny in “comely garments,” and trouble themselves to explain any portions of the Sabbath sermon that may be unclear to immature Christians. Give them a treat for dinner, teach them to guard against worldly discourse, and not allow their children to frolic or run amok!
Sabbath afternoon with the children. The parent should utilize the blessing of the Sabbath to further the child’s knowledge of God with lessons from nature or Holy Writ. If you should happen to fail in attempts to capture your child’s attention, then the fault lies not with the message itself, but with the messenger.
The true Sabbath-keeping family- how accomplished. Ellen G. White provides many tactical guidelines for the proper observance of the Sabbath by families, but they are all components of this grand strategic vision- The Sabbath should be a delight!
Teaching reverence for holy things. The act of reverence is enjoined upon all youth, but will not be inculcated into youth without a demonstration of this quality by the parent, teacher, or leader. Preliminary to a demonstration of the act of reverence is a display of selflessness, for reverence for self is a barrier to reverence for God. A child’s reverence for God will hopefully become supercharged in the wake of a personal encounter with Him, but these experiences are not always a part of early childhood. When a personal encounter between a child and their Redeemer eventually occurs, however, it can be compared to Moses before the burning bush, or Saul being ambushed by Jesus on the road to Damascus.
Think on these things:
Is my worship a dull, monotonous repetition of words? Matthew 6:7 reveals Christ’s judgment on this issue- But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Church liturgy can comfort worshippers with a degree of familiarity, but it is not convenient to compose (or borrow), memorize, and predictably repeat an all-purpose personal prayer (as if it were suitable for any occasion).
Do I enjoy praising God? Yes! I am always glad when I enter unto the house of God…
Does my child lift his head heavenward when he prays? The sage executors of the White Estate are doubtlessly aware of Ellen G. White’s insights concerning proper physical attitudes to assume during the act of prayer. The writer/answerer is presently unable to discover a relevant section of Child Guidance that reveals this information, however. He does have a memory of reading a response by Ellen G. White to a Caribbean congregation who asked if it was necessary to pray with our eyes wide open, and to be barefoot while praying. She replied in the negative. Here is a general protocol based on Ellen G. White’s letter to the inquiring islanders- When you are praying, close your eyes. You also need to be wearing a pair of shoes.
Is my Sabbath dinner a treat? Reformed gluttons like the writer/answerer constantly struggle to no longer make an idol of food. Ellen G. White advocates that food be tasty, and especially so on the Sabbath, but adds that be must be consumed in modest quantities. The writer/answerer’s relationship to food, however, is like an alcoholic’s legendary relationship to liquor- One bite is too many, and a thousand bites are not enough. This attitude is not healthy, so it will require adjustment.
Although my child is not allowed to engage in common play on the Sabbath, we do have a happy time singing, taking nature walks, and telling stories. The noted architect Charles-Édouard Jeanneret (aka Le Corbusier) referred to architecture as “The Great Game.” Creative endeavors that are discharged expertly are representative of the three attributes of a good building that were identified by the Imperial Roman architect Vitruvius- firmness, commodity, and delight. “Delight” is always the reward of a job well done. There are many varieties of pleasure, and they can all be categorized based on their relative cleanliness. Godliness undergirds the clean. Satan reigns over the unclean. Drinking alcohol (a creation of Satan) is exceedingly unclean. Doing good works ourselves, and teaching youth to do good works is (even upon the Sabbath) indisputably clean, for Jesus has established a precedent for this activity. Singing hymns or telling Bible stories on the Sabbath is pleasurable not only to the singers and storytellers, but to God as well. Sabbath activities that are not directed toward self-gratification can produce the greatest pleasures that mankind can conceivably enjoy.
Is my child reverent? The instillation of a conception of reverence into children is a process that is initiated by the parents, but it is always a matter of God’s direct intervention at some point in the process to advance acts of devotion from the realm of theory into the realm of certitude (as noted in the previous answer to question D-15 of this study guide).
Does my child sit with the family in church? Ellen G. White is transcendently perceptive with her recommendation that children stick close to their parents during worship services. The writer/answerer is in possession of much anecdotal material that would well serve as illustrations of the folly of not heeding her advice, but to rehearse any of these anecdotes here would be like the sin of talebearing.
Do I take my child out when he disturbs the service? Back when the writer/answerer was designing churches for a living, many congregations requested that a “Crying Room” be provided at the back of the sanctuary for mothers with vociferous infants to retreat into. Glass viewports and loudspeakers allowed the mother to keep track of the sermon while the babies performed their enthusiastic, but cacophonous hymnody. The former home of his current church refers to this area as a “Mother’s Room,” which is more dignified, and less colloquial (but also much less descriptive) that the generic designation “Crying Room.” The current facility also has a “Mother’s Room,” but it is connected to the main sanctuary only by electrons.
Name my latest answer to prayer. The mate that God created specifically for me has been absent from church for a long time due to a recurrent illness. She is now (2/23/2017) fully recovered, and present at all worship services.
Section XIX- The Day of Reckoning
Read pages 555-570.
Check your knowledge:
What is Satan now doing? (555:1) Satan is marshaling his host
For what should God’s people now be preparing? (555:2) God’s people should be preparing for what is to break upon the [majority of the inhabitants of the] world as an overwhelming surprise [the calamitous, but triumphant return of Jesus]
What is the most important parental work? (556:1) The right training of their children
More than anything else, what do young people need? (557:0) Good, sanctifying religion
How long can parents delay in preparing their children for heaven? (557:1) Section 557:1 indicates that any delay whatsoever is inadvisable
What work in the home is to accompany the third angel’s message? (558:1) The special work of parents is to make the laws of God plain to their children, and to urge their obedience to these laws. Children must be educated concerning the importance of obeying God all the days of their lives [lives that could conceivably become attenuated due to Christ’s soon return]
In what must children’s hearts be trained? (558:2) Self-control and self-denial
What do Adventist parents need to realize more fully? (558:3, 559:0) The urgent need to train their children to represent to the world the power and grace of Christ
What will be read in the solemn assembly of the last day? (560:2) The reason[s] of the condemnation of the sinner.
What two things will the trumpet of the Archangel soon do? (561:0) (a) The sound will startle the living (b) The sound will wake the dead
In its record books, what does Heaven mark? (561:3) The neglect of parents
Whom will lost children face in the judgment? (561:4) The parents who made them what they are
Day by day, what is God taking of His people? (562:1) Pictures
What is included in God’s picture of us? (563:1) (a) The features of the face (b) (c) [There exists no second and third categories that will serve as subjects for metaphorical snapshots by God in Section 563:2 to serve as answers to sub-questions (b) & (c) but this omission is due to faulty editing by the trustees of the White Estate, and not to Ellen G. White. Her writings include hundreds of photogenic vignettes of those who are perpetrating acts that are displeasing to God. Thousands, perhaps.
What will rest on unfaithful parents? (563:4) The curse of God
Complete: “There will be a relinking of the family chain.” (565:3)
Complete: “Little children are borne by holy angels to their mother’s arms.” (566:3)
What do we ever need to keep before us? (568:3) Visions of future glory, and a vision of things unseen
With what question does this treasured volume end? (569:2) “Fathers, mothers, shall the voices of your children swell the song of gladness in that day?”
Rate your attitude toward Christ’s second coming: An eager anticipation of this pending event brings joy and delight to my every waking moment!
I think the best picture God has taken of me was on any of the all-too-rare occasions that I have performed some charitable act in complete anonymity, untainted by a spirit of vanity or display. A faultfinder would cite this as a case of hiding my light under a bushel, but it serves to counter the sin of pride. God, at any rate, is capable of seeing through any intervening bushel.
I think the worst picture God has taken of me was… you may select any random image from a period that spanned 1970 to 2006. A move to Atlanta (a change of scene) and the commencement of the sanctification process (a change of heart) occurred when the writer/answerer reached the age of 49. It is assuredly no coincidence (for there are no coincidences) that this is the precise age of author Margret Mitchell when she was stuck and fatally injured while attempting to cross Peachtree Street in midtown Atlanta. Divine providence is very detail-oriented.
Discuss with others:
The lateness of the hour–God’s last hour! Members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church are heirs to a close study of end-times prophecy that reached a fever pitch as the anticipated 1,260 “cleansing of the sanctuary” forecast in Daniel 8:14 arrived. This milestone date was October 22, 1844. The return of Jesus did not occur in the manner that many thousands had expected, but subsequent insight discovered the heaven-based events of this day to be a harbinger of the imminence of the end of the age. The fields that all Christians are commanded to reap are white for the harvest.
Is my family ready should Christ come now? The focus of Ellen G. White’s Child Guidance is children and youth, but the writer/answerer, childless at present, nevertheless possesses both a biological family and a spiritual family. The spiritual branch is largely ready (one prays) for Christ’s return, but his biological family has proved incredibly resistant to Scriptural truth. The writer/answerer himself has been atypically well-informed about these truths throughout his life (considering his highly secular upbringing), but has only recently become fully devoted to the work of sharing these redemptive truths with others.
Preparing our youth for the coming crisis. (556, 557) Ellen G. White asserts that if we are to prepare our children for the coming crises, we must first be fully prepared ourselves. Assertions are best illustrated and ratified by Scripture, and there are countless (a harmless instance of literary hyperbole) examples of prophecy concerning Christ’s return that are distributed throughout the Bible. The author of Child Guidance writes that we must …first cast out the beam out of thine [our] own eye; and then shalt thou [we] see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s [thy children included] eye (Matthew 7:5). Subsequent to personal beam removals, we are to work assiduously to remove motes, for time available for the proper preparation of our children for impending and inevitable tribulations becomes shorter by the hour. We must work …while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. (John 9:4, partial)
Example of strict obedience–part of the third angel’s message. Obedience usually commences with a conscientious adherence to the ten commandments (Exodus 20:2-17), and this is a good starting point for anyone who please God by becoming a commandment-keeper. The proper day for rest and worship, the Sabbath of the Lord thy God, is documented in the fourth of these ten commandments. Members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church honor this command by manifesting strict obedience to it.
Describe the judgment day for parents and children. The leitmotif of the compilation of the writings of Ellen G. White that is entitled Child Guidance will now be paraphrased a final time- Children who are refused admission to eternity can place the blame for this rejection on their parents, for their exclusion is due to parental negligence. The parents of these lost souls will be apprised of the dire consequences of their neglect, and therefore refused entry into eternity as well! They will be unpleasantly surprised in that day, and say things like …Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I [Jesus] profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” Negligent parents will all be wailing, and gnashing their teeth.
Can parents be saved when children are lost? (561) Ellen G. White allows for this possibility to occur, but due to the awesome responsibility that parents are granted for the salvation or loss of their children’s souls, a failure to have diligently worked to ensure the children’s salvation must result in one of the largest of all possible blots on the record books of our lives that God so perfectly keeps.
God’s photograph of me. (562, 563) I am thankful that repentance, and a turning away from sin consigns older photographs of my misdeeds to the rubbish heap. Effective witnessing to some individuals occasionally requires me to fish them out of the dumpster so that they can illustrate a testimony. Should I be blessed to be admitted to the hereafter, I know that the very atoms from which these images are comprised will be obliterated. My memory of them, and God’s memory of them will endure, but the physical evidence will no longer exist!
Children praising or condemning parents in judgment. The parents who have contributed to the exclusion of their children from heaven will face God, who in Section 561.2 of Child Guidance is imagined as asking this rhetorical question- “What have you done with My flock, My beautiful flock?” The children who have suffered the ultimate penalty will add their voices to God’s, and the magnitude of the parents’ culpability will suffer a further increase. This is revealed in Section 563.4. The passage that follows, 563.5 indicates that good stewards of their children’s characters will be enabled to add their accolades to God’s hearty “Well done!”
The reunited families in heaven. Jacob and Esau were estranged for a long season, but despite the animosity that existed between them they were eventually reconciled to each other. In some families, however, bad blood between members can endure unto the grave; but not beyond (assuming the contending parties are both privileged to tread the streets of gold). The executors of the White Estate have provided the title Broken Family Chains Will Be Relinked for Section 565.3 of Child Guidance. Will the circle be unbroken? Yes, and broken circles will be repaired, as become as good as new.
Is heaven worth it? Why? Here how First Peter 4:3 describes the worldly “pleasures” that one forsakes to gain eternal life- lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revelings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries. Anyone who may attribute “worth” to these valueless pursuits has their priorities badly out of adjustment. It is worthy to not squander the life that God has granted you, so a wise transition into a lifestyle that is not totally worthless is opposite to whatever sins or vices you are called upon to relinquish. Ellen G. White does not sweep the hardships and demands of living in the will of God under the carpet, and neither does Peter. The fisher of men’s first epistle (in 4:12) discloses to newborn Christians exactly what they can expect from a world that is under the suzerainty of Satan- Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you… Is the reward of heaven worth having to endure all the earthy tribulation that Jesus has promised will be our portion? Paul thinks so, and shares his thoughts with us on this subject in Second Corinthians 4:17- For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory… Our temporal lives are significant, since the record of them will determine our ultimate destination, but we should not love it “unto the death.” Even your possible martyrdom (and there will be many martyrs made at the close of history) is nothing to fret about. Just wo verses beyond the one last quoted, Paul assures us that …if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Our potential entry into heaven is worth an endurance of any measure of tribulation that this fallen world can direct toward us.
God’s shocking words to careless parents. These “shocking words” were replicated in discussion topic #8, just above, and will be replicated here- “What have you done with My flock, My beautiful flock?” This is a rhetorical question, akin to God’s inquiry concerning Adam’s whereabouts in the Garden of Eden subsequent to his first transgression. God knew perfectly well where Adam was, and He also that knew that Adam had acquired the emotion that is designated as “shame.” A dual meaning is attached to this latter question by God concerning Adam’s whereabouts just as if Adam were literally lost, for the first man was now (at least temporarily) as lost as anyone can possibly be. Dante recycles this notion in Canto 1 of the Inferno third of his trilogy-
MIDWAY upon the journey of our life
I found myself within a forest dark,
For the straightforward pathway had been lost.
The Master’s final condemnation. Not a good thing to be the subject of! Adventist theology is Scriptural, and therefore does not employ fabricated tales about a place of unending torture called Hell. But the pain of hearing firsthand, from God Himself that you are barred from heaven is a sufficient spur to repentance. Fourteenth Century Italian poet Dante Alighieri, quoted just above, was not nearly as energetic with his descriptions of heaven’s delights as he was about Hell’s imagined torments, as revenge against his enemies was one of the motivations for detailing a condition of eternal suffering. Dante was able to vicariously judge and condemn his many detractors. He fancied the gate to Hell as being inscribed with this motto-
All hope abandon ye who enter here!
Most of this inscription would be appropriate for an exit from the court that stands before the gates of heaven, a real place. It could be modified to remove the last traces of optimism in the rejected sinner’s mind-
All hope abandon ye!
A lost soul is lost forever at this point, and their extended period of probation is now closed!
Think on these things:
When will Christ actually come? Matthew 24:36 reveals that- …of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But Jesus will return indeed, and nearly every harbinger of His return that is contained in Bible prophecy had now come to pass. There may be a few more souls who need to come to Christ, but God does not lie concerning his intention to wrap things up in a jiffy. Revelation 22:12 contains this promise by our Redeemer to those who live according to the Word of God- And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
Am I ready now? Fridays are known to Adventists worldwide as “Preparation Day.” The calendar of my life is still stuck on Friday, but since the sun will set at any moment now, I must hasten to perform a few essential last-minute preparations. As comic-strip hillbilly Snuffy Smith used to frequently say, “Time’s a wastin’!”
Is my child ready? It is imperative that all children be made ready, and the means whereby their readiness can be assured is provided by the compilation of the writings of Ellen G. White that is the subject of this extensive study guide- Child Guidance.
If not, when do I begin working for him? A three-letter word is sufficient to correctly answer this question, and will be distinguished in the following Bible verse. It is from Second Corinthians 6:2– (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
If Christ came this minute, is my child where He can find him? The literal physical location of your child (like the inquiry by God concerning Adam’s whereabouts in Eden) is not what this question is referring to. It is another case of the conscription of the “lost and found” metaphor that is so useful for descriptions of the process of redemption. If you have faithfully instilled the everlasting Word of God into your child, and followed the precepts that are collected into the book Child Guidance, then Christ will have no difficulty locating your child when He returns.
Could He recognize him [your child] as being His by his words and acts? If the words and actions of the child conform to the model that Jesus established for us all, it will be easy for our Savior to easily cull one’s from the flock. John 10:14-15 quotes Jesus on this topic- I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. The next verse (10:16) reveals that the bride of Christ is not the exclusive product of any single denomination- And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. The “one fold” that shall endure forever are all distinguishable due to their words and actions, and by the love that they bear for one another.
Has God taken my picture today? The use by Ellen G. White of still photography as a symbol of God’s constant awareness of, and perfect remembrance of the way we conduct our lives is a literary device that was unavailable when the epistles of Paul were being written. Paul would have appreciated the utility of this metaphor. God is watching all of us, all of the time. Metaphorical sound recorders capture our every word. Metaphorical surveillance cameras are constantly trained upon us. But God also possesses a capability that cannot be symbolized by any media device that only captures the outward appearance and sound of a person. He is also able to gaze into our souls, and to look deep within our hearts. Metaphorical X-ray, ultrasound, and MRI devices are unsatisfactory symbols of this transcendent capability, for the depths of analysis that they reveal are paltry compared to the utterly complete knowledge of us that God can discern.
Name my greatest desire for my child. My child, or your child, or any child, or any person who has lived, is living, or shall live needs to be living in accordance with the principal that is concisely stated in Ecclesiastes 12:13-
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
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