h is to come. It is of primary
importance that restraint should hold back the young agent from that
which is evil; and as far as may be, prevent him from associating with
the vile, who disregard the voice of conscience and harden themselves
in sin.

Suitable correction to impress an early sense of the evil of sin, and
praise to encourage and allure in the paths of virtue, are also acts
of kindness to the unexperienced creature who is entering on the war
of life, and coming forward to act its part among enemies and
temptations, and thus to prepare for honor or infamy, joy or misery
eternal. Though no fruit of this kind attention may immediately appear
beneficial consequences commonly follow; though sometimes at a later
period than was expected; yea after expectation hath ceased.

4. Example is _another mean of seeking a godly seed_.

Good example is particularly incumbent on all who are exalted to rule,
whether in larger, or smaller communities. In the history of Israel we
observe the morals of the nation commonly agreeing with those of the
governing prince. Nor was this peculiar to that people; it holds
generally, in a considerable degree, of every other. The manners and
morals of all who live in society, usually take a tinge from those of
their rulers. This is particularly the case with smaller societies;
especially with families. Children often imbibe the sentiments, learn
the manners, and catch somewhat of the tempers of those with whom they
live, as well as learn their language. _Do we seek a godly seed_? It
concerns us to be careful what examples we set before the youth who
attend us.

Youth watch and observe adults, especially those to whom they look up
as friends, and whose love and kindness they daily experience. Adults
are disposed to think favorably of those who shew them kindness. From
the view of a child, it hides every fault. That a thing was done by a
respected parent justifies it to a child, however criminal it might
appear in another.

The temper and conduct, of a benefactor, make a deeper impression than
his words, and have more influence on the judgment of those entering
on life. Even little children feel the force of our Savior's rule of
judging--"By their fruits ye shall know them." Every thing conspires
to prejudice children in favor of parents, and to dispose them to
follow their examples. Bad example is in them especially seducing.
Children generally follow it, where it is set before them. C