Recreation that Yields Enduring Satisfactions
387
In His earth life Christ was an example to all the human family, and
He was obedient and helpful in the home. He learned the carpenter’s
trade and worked with His own hands in the little shop at Nazareth....
The Bible says of Jesus, “And the child grew, and waxed strong in
spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him.” As
He worked in childhood and youth, mind and body were developed.
He did not use His physical powers recklessly, but gave them such
exercise as would 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 precept and example Christ has dignified useful labor
Refreshment Through Variation of Labor—Young men should
remember that they are accountable for all the privileges they have
enjoyed, for the improvement of their time, and for the right use of
their abilities. They may inquire, Shall we have no amusement or
recreation? Shall we work, work, work, without any variation
A change from physical labor that has taxed the strength severely
may be very necessary for a time, that they may again engage in labor,
putting forth exertion with greater success. But entire rest may not
be necessary or even be attended with the best results so far as their
physical strength is concerned. They need not, even when weary with
one kind of labor, trifle away their precious moments. They may then
seek to do something not so exhausting but which will be a blessing
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to their mother and sisters. In lightening their cares by taking upon
themselves the roughest burdens they have to bear, they can find that
amusement which springs from principle and which will yield them
true happiness, and their time will not be spent in trifling or in selfish
indulgence. Their time may be ever employed to advantage, and they
be constantly refreshed with variation, and yet be redeeming the time
so that every moment will tell with good account to someone
Many claim that it is necessary for the preservation of physical
health to indulge in selfish amusement. It is true that change is required
for the best development of the body, for mind and body are refreshed
and invigorated by change; but this object is not gained by indulgence
5
Fundamentals of Christian Education, 417, 418
.
6
Counsels to Teachers, Parents, and Students, 337
.
7
Testimonies For The Church 3, 223
.