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His Simplicity Gave Him Favor, May 5
And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God
and man.
Luke 2:52
.
It was the simplicity of the life of Christ, and His freedom from pride
and vanity, that gave Him favor with God and man. He did not seek to
attract attention for distinction
The life of Christ was passed in simplicity and purity.... His wisdom
was great, but it was child-like, and increased with His years. His child-
hood possessed peculiar gentleness, and marked loveliness. His character
was full of beauty, and unsullied perfection
In the life of Christ we see the only safe pattern for all children and
youth. When children are disposed to rebel against parental authority, they
are condemned by the life of their Redeemer, who was Himself once a
child, and obedient to His parents. In what marked contrast is the character
of children now. The majority of children live for their own pleasure, for
the purpose of display. Some try to make brilliant speeches, that they may
attract notice. Some seem to think that their worth will be estimated by
their appearance. They are very precise in their dress, and devote much
time and means for display, that they may attract attention, while they
do not find time for, and have an interest in, secret prayer. They neglect
the inward adorning, the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which, the
apostle tells us, is of great price in the sight of God....
Wealth and dress are so common that, while they may excite envy, they
cannot command true respect and admiration. A cultivated mind, adorned
with the grace of meekness and humility, a pure and upright heart, will be
reflected in the countenance, and command love and respect
If the youth would become strong in mind, pure in morals, firm in
spiritual power, let them follow the example of Jesus in His simplicity, in
His submission to parental restraint
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13
The Youth’s Instructor, September 1, 1873
.
14
The Youth’s Instructor, April 1, 1872
.
15
The Youth’s Instructor, September 1, 1873
.
16
The Youth’s Instructor, July 14, 1892
.
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