( 12 )
scripture it was taken from, and the heads of the discourse.
XXIV. It is the duty of every Christian to reverence and esteem the word of God, and to search the scriptures. Therefore let some part of the sacred day be spent in reading to them some portion of the Old or New Testament, and as soon as they are able to read let them severally bear a part of this useful and pious exercise.
XXV. Encourage them, as much as possible, to read moral and religious books, and instead of novels and romances, and other profane and irreligious publications, which tend to corrupt the morals, to fill the mind with false and improper ideas, and the head with useless lumber, put into their hands natural history, and any other books that are entertaining and useful.
XXVI. Often remind them of the shortness of life and the certainty of death. Inform them that in this world we have no abiding city; that we are strangers and pilgrims on earth, as all our forefathers were; that we are now in a state where our virtue is to be tried and exercised; that after death we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; and that, according as we now lead our lives, will be our happiness or misery to all eternity.
XXVII. Since we have no power of ourselves to help ourselves, are incapable of
