The saints everlasting rest

5. Moreover, you that are parents know the temper and inclinations of your children, what vices they are most inclined to, and what instruction or reproof they most need: but ministers cannot so well know this.

6. Above all, you are ever with them, and so have opportunity, as you know their faults, so to apply the remedy. You may be still talking to them of the word of GOD, and minding them of their state and duty, and may follow and set home every word of advice, as they are in the house with you, or in the shop, or in the field. O what an excellent advantage is this, if you have hearts to use it! Especially you mothers, remember this; you are more with your children while they are little ones than their fathers: be you therefore still teaching them as soon as ever they are capable of learning: you cannot do GOD such eminent service yourselves as men; but you may train up children that may do it, and then you will have part of the comfort and honour. What a deal of pains are you at with the bodies of your children more than the fathers? And what do you suffer to bring them into the world; and will not you be at as much pains for the saving of their souls? You are naturally of more tender affections than men; and will it not move you to think that your children should perish for-ever? Therefore I beseech you, for the sake of the children of your bowels, teach them, admonish them, watch over them, and give them no rest till you have brought them to Christ.

And thus I have showed you reason enough to make you diligent in teaching your children.

And thus I have shewed you reason enough to make you diligent in teaching your children.