p. 37 | HOME RELIGION by J. O. Corliss

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 3, 1876

HOME RELIGION.

By J. O. Corliss

A STRANGER went into a prayer-meeting, and, after a few testimonies had been given, arose and made some remarks, in the course of which he said, “If you don’t believe I’ve got religion just go and ask my wife; she’ll tell you.” At first thought some might be inclined to smile at such a blunt, pointed testimony; but is not the reference a good one? How many feel willing to have their wives testify truthfully concerning their religion? Does our religion make us act as politely at home as abroad? Do we try to be gentle, obliging and kind in the family? Do we upon returning from a journey or the day’s labor greet the family with a smile, and thus bring light and sunshine to the home circle? These are vital questions that all may ask themselves, and if we cannot answer in the affirmative, we may well doubt our religion, however high our pretensions to godliness may be.

One of the fruits of the Spirit is gentleness, the law of which, if written in our hearts, will lead us to acts of kindness in little as well as great things, at home as well as abroad, and may well be considered the foundation of good manners. Good manners will lead one to be polite at all times and in all places, but especially in the family. This can be done, too, without that distant dignity which makes one seem as cold as an iceberg. Some men seem to think that any indulgence in affectionate feeling is a weakness. But what is a more unnatural sight than a family without affection? God is love. Then why think it a weakness to have warm hearts and ardent affections? Can we find a stronger cord than love with which to bind the family together?

If we would have a happy home, and one where the Spirit of God can dwell, we should do all in our power to make it such. A smile costs nothing, yet there is power in it to cheer the disconsolate, comfort the mourner, subdue temper, turn hatred to love, and light up the darkest paths with rays of sunlight.

In a neighbor’s house, almost any one can be courteous. If any thing goes wrong, or is disagreeable, it is made the best of; efforts are made to excuse it, and to show that it is not felt. If this is so easy and natural in the house of a friend, is it not possible at home? If as much mutual anxiety was manifested to please and be pleased at home as in a neighbor’s house, home would be an attractive and happy place; and all who might come within its precincts would be made better by its influence.

J. O. CORLISS.