Basic HTML Version
Christ Is My Perfect Example, October 19
Christ in My Life
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for
us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: who did
no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth.
1 Peter 2:21, 22
Christ is our example in all things. In the providence of God, His
early life was passed in Nazareth, where the inhabitants were of that
character that He was continually exposed to temptations, and it was
necessary for Him to be guarded in order to remain pure and spotless
amid so much sin and wickedness. Christ did not select this place
Himself. His heavenly Father chose this place for Him, where His
character would be tested and tried in a variety of ways. The early life
of Christ was subjected to severe trials, hardships, and conflicts, that He
might develop the perfect character which makes Him a perfect example
for children, youth, and manhood....
The life of Christ was designed to show that purity, stability, and
firmness of principle are not dependent upon a life freed from hardships,
poverty, and adversity. The trials and privations of which so many youth
complain, Christ endured without murmuring. And this discipline is the
very experience the youth need, which will give firmness to their charac-
ter and make them like Christ, strong in spirit to resist temptation. They
will not, if they separate from the influence of those who would lead them
astray and corrupt their morals, be overcome by the devices of Satan.
Through daily prayer to God they will have wisdom and grace from Him
to bear the conflicts and stern realities of life, and come off victorious.
Fidelity and serenity of mind can only be retained by watchfulness and
prayer. Christ’s life was an example of persevering energy, which was
not allowed to become weakened by reproach, ridicule, privation, or
hardships.... And in just that degree that they maintain their integrity of
character under discouragements will their fortitude, stability, and power
of endurance increase, and they wax strong in spirit.
[297]
310