Counsels for the Church - Ellen G. White

will have just the self-possession required for this time. The Saviour will
reflect upon these self-sacrificing women the light of His countenance, and
this will give them a power that will exceed that of men. They can do in
families a work that men cannot do, a work that reaches the inner life. They
can come close to the hearts of those whom men cannot reach. Their work is
needed. Discreet and humble women can do a good work in explaining the
truth to the people in their homes. The word of God thus explained will do its
leavening work, and through its influence whole families will be
converted.42 All can do something. In an effort to excuse themselves, some
say: "My home duties, my children, claim my time and my means." Parents,
your children should be your helping hand, increasing your power and ability
to work for the Master. Children are the younger members of the Lord's
family. They should be led to consecrate themselves to God, whose they are
by creation and by redemption. They should be taught that all their powers of
body, mind, and soul are His. They should be trained to help in various lines
of unselfish service. Do not allow your children to be hindrances. With you
the children should share spiritual as well as physical burdens. By helping
others they increase their own happiness and usefulness.
Our work for Christ is to begin with the family in the home. The
education of the youth should be of a different order from that which has
been given in the past. Their welfare demands far more labor than has been
given them. There is no missionary field more important than this. By
precept and example parents are to teach their children to labor for the
unconverted. The children should be so educated that they will sympathize
with the aged and afflicted and will seek to alleviate the sufferings of the
poor and distressed. They should be taught to be diligent in missionary work;
and from their earliest years self-denial and sacrifice for the good of others
and the advancement of Christ's cause should be inculcated, that they may be
laborers together with God.
47