Such declarations are not indeed to be understood literally.  None are equal transgressors, before they are capable of moral action, which is the state of the new born infant.  He cannot speak lies who hath not yet attained the power of speech.  The poison of human depravity may, however be compared to that of the serpent, which begins in its formation, and discovers itself when first capable of action.  We see the effects of depravity in the child, while reason is yet weak and only budding forth.  It is one of the first appearances in the progress of a human being from infancy to manhood.  When these are discovered, restraint should begin.  Parents who seek a godly seed, should no longer delay to counteract the corrupt disposition, and endeavor to give the young creature, committed to their care, another and a better bias.

But, alas!  Parental affection too often degenerates into weakness, and giving way to natural perverseness, suffers it to take its course; the consequences of which are often fatal to peace and honor in after life; perhaps in that also which 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.