In his letter to Julia Finney, Charles Finney expresses his love and concern for his daughter, sharing updates about his travels and the ongoing work of the Lord in London. He encourages Julia to continue her studies and to maintain her relationship with God amidst the blessings she experiences. Finney also inquires about her well-being and the progress she is making in music and other activities, emphasizing the importance of living a life close to God. His heartfelt message reflects a father's love and a spiritual guide's desire for his children to grow in faith and character.

Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the significance of divine discipline in the life of believers, drawing parallels between parental guidance and God's loving chastening. He illustrates how discipline, though often painful, is essential for growth and maturity, much like a child's experience with their parents. Brengle encourages the understanding that God's corrections are expressions of His love, aimed at shaping us into better individuals. He reflects on personal experiences of discipline, highlighting the lasting impact of a parent's love and guidance. Ultimately, he concludes that through life's challenges and chastisements, we are being prepared for a deeper relationship with God.

D.L. Moody shares a poignant story of a mother whose ambition for her son led him away from his faith and ultimately to tragedy. Despite her efforts to steer him towards success and high society, her son fell into a life of disobedience and despair, culminating in his untimely death. The mother’s heartache reflects the consequences of neglecting spiritual guidance in favor of worldly pursuits. Moody emphasizes the importance of nurturing faith in our children and the need to support them in their spiritual journey. He urges parents to bring their children to Christ, as true peace comes from a relationship with God.

Erlo Stegen preaches on the parable of the prodigal son, emphasizing the foolishness of the younger son who demanded his inheritance and squandered it on reckless living. He warns parents about the dangers of leading their children astray and the importance of guiding them in the ways of the Lord. The sermon highlights the consequences of disobedience and the need for repentance, as the younger son eventually returns to his father seeking forgiveness. Stegen contrasts the father's compassion with the older brother's resentment, urging listeners to reflect on their own attitudes towards grace and forgiveness. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to obedience and respect for parental authority.

Charles Finney emphasizes the critical role of parental involvement in the upbringing of children, urging parents to keep their children close and under their supervision to protect them from negative influences in the neighborhood. He argues that children benefit more from adult companionship than from mingling with peers, and stresses the importance of providing a safe and engaging home environment for their amusement and education. Finney also highlights the necessity of cultivating a taste for reading and encouraging children to confide in their parents, fostering a relationship built on trust and open communication. He warns against the dangers of neglecting these responsibilities, as it can lead children to seek companionship and guidance from harmful influences outside the home.