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Counsels on Sabbath School Work
dealt with unjustly. By exposing the wrongdoer, he may be thrown
upon Satan’s battlefield, and from that moment go steadily downward.
Christ bears long with us, and we must be Christlike. He does not cut
us off because of our errors, but reproves in tenderness, and by love
draws us close to Himself.
Wisdom and Patience Needed
If teachers see that it is impossible to bring a student under the
discipline of the class, let him be removed to another class, for it may
be that another teacher may be able to supply the deficiency. What
one teacher lacks, another may possess; but if you can obtain the
confidence of the youth, and bind him to your heart through cords
of sympathy and love you may win a soul to Christ. The wayward,
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self-willed, independent boy may become transformed in character.
But while it is necessary to manifest love and sympathy for your
pupils, it is a manifest weakness to show partiality, and thus arouse
suspicion and jealousy. Children are quick to discern the preferences
of the teacher, and the favored student often measures his strength,
his aptness, and skill with that of the teacher in the management of
the class. He may decide to be master; and unless the teacher has
the grace of Christ, he will manifest weakness, become impatient,
exacting, and severe. The leading spirit of the class will generally
impart his purpose to other students, and there will be a combined
effort to obtain the mastery. If the teacher, through the grace of Christ,
is self-controlled, and holds the lines with a steady, patient hand, he
will quell the boisterous element, keep his self-respect, and command
the respect of his students. When once order is restored, let kindness,
gentleness, and affection be manifested. It may be that rebellion will
rise again and again, but let not the hasty temper appear. Do not speak
sharply to the evildoer, and discourage a soul who is struggling with
the powers of darkness. Be still, and let your heart ascend in prayer to
God for help. Angels will come close to your side, and help you to lift
up the standard against the enemy; and instead of cutting off the erring
one, you may be enabled to gain a soul for Christ.—
Testimonies on
Sabbath-School Work, 77-80
.
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