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Counsels on Sabbath School Work
think of this, and to express thanksgiving for His mercy toward them.
If children and youth had been properly instructed in this age of the
world, what honor, what praise and thanksgiving, would flow from
their lips to God! What a revenue of small gifts would be brought from
the hands of the little ones to be put into His treasury as thank offerings!
God would be remembered instead of forgotten.—
The Review and
Herald, November 13, 1894
.
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Birthday Offerings
Under the Jewish economy, on the birth of children an offering was
made to God, by His own appointment. Now we see parents taking
special pains to present gifts to their children upon their birthdays;
they make this an occasion of honoring the child, as though honor
were due to the human being. Satan has had his own way in these
things; he has diverted the minds and the gifts to human beings; thus
the thoughts of the children are turned to themselves, as if they were
to be made the objects of special favor. That which should flow back
to God in offerings to bless the needy and carry the light of truth
to the world, is turned from the right channel, and frequently does
more harm than good, encouraging vanity, pride, and self-importance.
On birthday occasions the children should be taught that they have
reason for gratitude to God for His loving-kindness in preserving their
lives for another year. Precious lessons might thus be given. For life,
health, food, and clothing, no less than for the hope of eternal life,
we are indebted to the Giver of all mercies; and it is due to God to
recognize His gifts, and to present our offerings of gratitude to our
greatest benefactor. These birthday gifts are recognized of Heaven.—
The Review and Herald, December 9, 1890
.
A Reminder of God’s Care and Love
Our birthday anniversaries, and Christmas and Thanksgiving fes-
tivals, are too often devoted to selfish gratification, when the mind
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should be directed to the mercy and loving-kindness of God. God is
displeased that His goodness, His constant care, His unceasing love,
are not brought to mind on these anniversary occasions.—
The Review
and Herald, December 23, 1890
.