Christ’s Encouragement to Mothers
207
He knew that these children would listen to His counsel and ac-
cept Him as their Redeemer, while those who were worldly-wise and
hardhearted would be less likely to follow Him and find a place in the
kingdom of God. These little ones, by coming to Christ and receiving
His advice and benediction, had His image and His gracious words
stamped upon their plastic minds, never to be effaced. We should learn
a lesson from this act of Christ, that the hearts of the young are most
susceptible to the teachings of Christianity, easy to influence toward
piety and virtue, and strong to retain the impressions received
“Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not:
for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” These precious words are to
be cherished, not only by every mother, but by every father as well.
These words are an encouragement to parents to press their children
[276]
into His notice, to ask in the name of Christ that the Father may let His
blessing rest upon their entire family. Not only are the best beloved
to receive particular attention, but also the restless, wayward children,
who need careful training and tender guidance
[277]
[278]
5
Ibid., 4:142
.
6
The Signs of the Times, August 13, 1896
.