The Children for Christ by Andrew Murray

Sabbath interesting to the children, to make them happy on it, if
possible to make them love it as a day of enjoyment, is so exclusively
the object of attention, that the thought of obligation is almost lost
sight of, and the principle almost unconsciously instilled that the day is
to be hallowed and loved only as far as it is made interesting and
pleasant. Let parents seek grace from Him who, as Divine wisdom says,
guides in the midst of the paths of right, to be kept from the right-hand
as well as the left-hand error.
Do not hesitate to speak of God’s command and of duty. God trained
Israel as a child in the life of law for the life of love in Christ. Education
consists, in its first stages, more in training to right habits than
inculcating principles: these come later. Be not afraid, in connection
with the Lord’s day, of the element of self-denial and quiet self-control
which the thought of obedience to God’s will and to your will brings
over the child’s spirit. They are part of the foundation of noble
character. Tranquillity of mind and serenity of spirit are invaluable
blessings; the quiet of the Sabbath helps to foster them. Holiness is
much more than separation; it is a positive fellowship and enjoyment
of God. But it begins with separation: the putting away of week-day
toys and books and companions, the marking off of the day from other
days, even in little things, is, under a wise guidance, a preparation for
the truer hallowing of it later on.
This on the one side. On the other, exercise a wise and loving
thoughtfulness as to the ways in which the day can be made a happy
one. In the picture lessons to the younger ones, in the careful selection
of suitable and interesting reading for the elder ones, in the merry
singing of psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to
the Lord, in the forethought with which possible transgression is
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