As a Child
49
By His own example He taught that it is our duty to be industrious,
that our work should be performed with exactness and thoroughness,
and that such labor is honorable. The exercise that teaches the hands
to be useful and trains the young to bear their share of life’s burdens
gives physical strength, and develops every faculty. All should find
something to do that will be beneficial to themselves and helpful to
others. God appointed work as a blessing, and only the diligent worker
finds the true glory and joy of life. The approval of God rests with
loving assurance upon children and youth who cheerfully take their
part in the duties of the household, sharing the burdens of father and
mother. Such children will go out from the home to be useful members
of society.
[73]
Throughout His life on earth, Jesus was an earnest and constant
worker. He expected much; therefore He attempted much. After
He had entered on His ministry, He said, “I must work the works of
Him that sent Me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man
can work.”
John 9:4
. Jesus did not shirk care and responsibility, as
do many who profess to be His followers. It is because they seek
to evade this discipline that so many are weak and inefficient. They
may possess precious and amiable traits, but they are nerveless and
almost useless when difficulties are to be met or obstacles surmounted.
The positiveness and energy, the solidity and strength of character,
manifested in Christ are to be developed in us, through the same
discipline that He endured. And the grace that He received is for us.
So long as He lived among men, our Saviour shared the lot of the
poor. He knew by experience their cares and hardships, and He could
comfort and encourage all humble workers. Those who have a true
conception of the teaching of His life will never feel that a distinction
must be made between classes, that the rich are to be honored above
the worthy poor.
Jesus carried into His labor cheerfulness and tact. It requires much
patience and spirituality to bring Bible religion into the home life and
into the workshop, to bear the strain of worldly business, and yet keep
the eye single to the glory of God. This is where Christ was a helper.
He was never so full of worldly care as to have no time or thought
for heavenly things. Often He expressed the gladness of His heart by
singing psalms and heavenly songs. Often the dwellers in Nazareth
heard His voice raised in praise and thanksgiving to God. He held