Chapter 5—Teaching Self-Denial and Self-Control VC

Begin With Babyhood—Self-denial and self-control should be taught to the children, and enforced upon them, so far as consistent, from babyhood. And first it is important that the little ones be taught that they eat to live, not live to eat; that appetite must be held in abeyance to the will; and that the will must be governed by calm, intelligent reason.—The Signs of the Times, April 20, 1882. (Te 181.1) MC VC

Teach Principles of Reform—Fathers and mothers, watch unto prayer. Guard strictly against intemperance in every form. Teach your children the principles of true health reform. Teach them what things to avoid in order to preserve health. Already the wrath of God has begun to be visited upon the children of disobedience. What crimes, what sins, what iniquitous practices, are being revealed on every hand!—Testimonies for the Church 9:160. (Te 181.2) MC VC

Teach the True Object of Life—Explicit instructions have been given in the word of God. Let these principles be carried out by the mother, with the co-operation and support of the father, and let children be trained from infancy to habits of self-control. Let them be taught that it is not the object of life to indulge sensual appetites, but to honor God and to bless their fellow men. (Te 181.3) MC VC

Fathers and mothers, labor earnestly and faithfully, relying on God for grace and wisdom. Be firm and yet mild. In all your commands aim to secure the highest good of your children, and then see that these commands are obeyed. Your energy and decision must be unwavering, yet ever in subjection to the Spirit of Christ. Then indeed may we hope to see “our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; that our daughters may be as cornerstones, polished after the similitude of a palace.”(Psalm 144:12)—The Signs of the Times, September 13, 1910. (Te 181.4) MC VC