January 8th 1884

Rested pretty well last night. In bed till 8am. Our minister (Rev George Stevenson) was here today catechising the family. Before he came I intended not to be present until the children were examined, fearing that my negligence in training them might be observed, and that the excitement might be too much for me. I was resolving to be more diligent in time to come. I then remembered the great day, and how would I stand the final judgement, and give account of my walk and conversation among them, and if I had been travailing in birth for them until Christ be formed in their souls. These considerations overcame my previous purpose, and I went to the room as soon as the minister came, and was pleased the children answered so well, and the service was agreeable. This I considered was cause of renewed thankfulness that I was not dealt with as I richly deserved, to be made "ashamed before all Israel and the sun." May I be enabled to "walk with a perfect heart within my house at home," and to be more earnest in instructing the children!