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The Desire of Ages
branch and leaf to flourish so beautifully, and to develop in symmetry
and loveliness. He will tell you that it was by no rude touch, no violent
effort; for this would only break the delicate stems. It was by little
attentions, often repeated. He moistened the soil, and protected the
growing plants from the fierce blasts and from the scorching sun, and
God caused them to flourish and to blossom into loveliness. In dealing
with your children, follow the method of the gardener. By gentle
touches, by loving ministrations, seek to fashion their characters after
the pattern of the character of Christ.
Encourage the expression of love toward God and toward one an-
other. The reason why there are so many hardhearted men and women
in the world is that true affection has been regarded as weakness, and
has been discouraged and repressed. The better nature of these persons
was stifled in childhood; and unless the light of divine love shall melt
away their cold selfishness, their happiness will be forever ruined.
If we wish our children to possess the tender spirit of Jesus, and the
sympathy that angels manifest for us, we must encourage the generous,
loving impulses of childhood.
Teach the children to see Christ in nature. Take them out into the
open air, under the noble trees, into the garden; and in all the wonderful
works of creation teach them to see an expression of His love. Teach
them that He made the laws which govern all living things, that He
has made laws for us, and that these laws are for our happiness and
joy. Do not weary them with long prayers and tedious exhortations,
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but through nature’s object lessons teach them obedience to the law of
God.
As you win their confidence in you as followers of Christ, it will
be easy to teach them of the great love wherewith He has loved us. As
you try to make plain the truths of salvation, and point the children to
Christ as a personal Saviour, angels will be by your side. The Lord
will give to fathers and mothers grace to interest their little ones in the
precious story of the Babe of Bethlehem, who is indeed the hope of
the world.
When Jesus told the disciples not to forbid the children to come
to Him, He was speaking to His followers in all ages,—to officers of
the church, to ministers, helpers, and all Christians. Jesus is drawing
the children, and He bids us, Suffer them to come; as if He would say,
They will come if you do not hinder them.