Setting a Good Example by E. V. Benedict

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. · Jan 8, 1914

Setting a Good Example

By E. V. Benedict

E. V. BENEDICT

EVERY day we live we are setting examples, be they good or bad, that others are prone to follow.

These examples are the footprints which we leave behind us in our progress along the sands of the river of time.

By setting good examples we benefit not only ourselves, but also others who may follow in our footsteps. How important, then, that our footprints lead only where we should be glad as well as proud to have others follow!

To preach morality is a very good thing; but to practice what we preach, and to teach by setting good examples, are still better. Naturally we are all more or less inclined to do the preaching and at the same time prone to let the other fellow do the practicing; though to be most effective the preaching and the practicing must go hand in hand.

The preacher and the farmer alike are learning to practice just what they preach and teach. Often by the right kind of practice a real good thing may be suggested which will carry more weight and influence for good than any amount of mere talk. And, in fact, there are times and places when it would be best for us all to do a little practicing before we begin to preach. The moral is, Set a good example.

Traverse City, Mich.