Talents
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have so much to do but because they do not plan so as to save time.
By their slow, dilatory ways they make much work out of very little.
But all who will, may overcome these fussy, lingering habits. In their
work let them have a definite aim. Decide how long a time is required
for a given task, and then bend every effort toward accomplishing the
work in the given time. The exercise of the will power will make the
hands move deftly.
Through lack of determination to take themselves in hand and
reform, persons can become stereotyped in a wrong course of action;
or by cultivating their powers they may acquire ability to do the very
best of service. Then they will find themselves in demand anywhere
and everywhere. They will be appreciated for all that they are worth.
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By many children and youth, time is wasted that might be spent in
carrying home burdens, and thus showing a loving interest in father
and mother. The youth might take upon their strong young shoulders
many responsibilities which someone must bear.
The life of Christ from His earliest years was a life of earnest
activity. He lived not to please Himself. He was the Son of the infinite
God, yet He worked at the carpenter’s trade with His father Joseph.
His trade was significant. He had come into the world as the character
builder, and as such all His work was perfect. Into all His secular
labor He brought the same perfection as into the characters He was
transforming by His divine power. He is our pattern.
Parents should teach their children the value and right use of time.
Teach them that to do something which will honor God and bless
humanity is worth striving for. Even in their early years they can be
missionaries for God.
Parents cannot commit a greater sin than to allow their children to
have nothing to do. The children soon learn to love idleness, and they
grow up shiftless, useless men and women. When they are old enough
to earn their living, and find employment, they work in a lazy, droning
way, yet expect to be paid as much as if they were faithful. There is a
world-wide difference between this class of workers and those who
realize that they must be faithful stewards.
Indolent, careless habits indulged in secular work will be brought
into the religious life and will unfit one to do any efficient service for
God. Many who through diligent labor might have been a blessing to
the world, have been ruined through idleness. Lack of employment