Signs of the Times, Book 1 - Ellen G. White

sinful life by the parents are often inherited by the children. They follow in
the footsteps of their parents. Sinful example has its influence from father to
son, to the third and fourth generations. If parents indulge in depraved
appetites, they will, in almost every case, see the same reproduced in their
children. The children will develop characters similar to those of their
parents. If parents are continually rebellious, and inclined to make void the
law of God by precept and example, their children will generally pursue the
same course. The example of God-fearing parents, who respect and honor by
their own course of action God's rule of right, will be imitated by their
children and their children's children; and thus the influence is seen from
generation to generation. The commandments of God are only grievous to
those who do not observe them.
As the Lord impressed upon the heart of Moses a clear sense of the
divine goodness, mercy, and compassion, he was filled with deep joy, and
reverence for God. "And he made haste, and bowed his head toward the
earth, and worshiped" He entreated the Lord to pardon the iniquity of his
people, and take them for his inheritance. Then God graciously promised that
he would make a covenant before all Israel to do great things for his people;
and that he would evidence to all nations his special care and love for them.
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