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Jesus Taught Industry By His Own Example, June 9
Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.
Ecclesiastes 9:10
.
In the simple garb of a common laborer [Jesus] walked the streets of the little
town, going to and returning from His humble work. He did not employ His divine
power to lessen His burdens or to lighten His toil.
As Jesus worked in childhood and youth, mind and body were developed. He did
not use His physical powers recklessly, but in such a way as to keep them in health,
that He might do the best work in every line. He was not willing to be defective,
even in the handling of tools. He was perfect as a workman, as He was perfect in
character. By His own example He taught that it is our duty to be industrious, that
our work should be performed with exactness and thoroughness, and that such labor
is honorable. The exercise that teaches the hands to be useful and trains the young to
bear their share of life’s burdens gives physical strength, and develops every faculty.
All should find something to do that will be beneficial to themselves and helpful to
others. God appointed work as a blessing, and only the diligent worker finds the true
glory and joy of life. The approval of God rests with loving assurance upon children
and youth who cheerfully take their part in the duties of the household, sharing the
burdens of father and mother. Such children will go out from the home to be useful
members of society.
Throughout His life on earth, Jesus was an earnest and constant worker. He
expected much; therefore He attempted much.... Jesus did not shirk care and
responsibility.... The positiveness and energy, the solidity and strength of character,
manifested in Christ are to be developed in us, through the same discipline that He
endured. And the grace that He received is for us....
Jesus carried into His labor cheerfulness and tact. It requires much patience and
spirituality to bring Bible religion into the home life and into the workshop, to bear
the strain of worldly business, and yet keep the eye single to the glory of God. This
is where Christ was a helper. He was never so full of worldly care as to have no time
or thought for heavenly things. Often He expressed the gladness of His heart by
singing psalms and heavenly songs. Often the dwellers in Nazareth heard His voice
raised in praise and thanksgiving to God. He held communion with heaven in song;
and as His companions complained of weariness from labor, they were cheered by
the sweet melody from His lips. His praise seemed to banish the evil angels, and,
like incense, fill the place with fragrance. The minds of His hearers were carried
away from their earthly exile, to the heavenly home (
The Desire of Ages, 72, 73
).
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