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Child Jesus
41
Jesus was familiar with poverty, self-denial, and privation. This
experience was a safeguard to Him. No aimless hours opened the
way for corrupting associations. Neither gain nor pleasure, applause
nor censure, could induce Him to consent to a wrong act. Christ, the
only sinless one who ever dwelt on earth, for nearly thirty years lived
among the wicked inhabitants of Nazareth. This fact is a rebuke
to those who think themselves dependent upon place, fortune, or
prosperity, to live a blameless life.
As a Carpenter, Christ Honored Work
Jesus had been the Commander of heaven, and angels had de-
lighted to fulfill His word; now He was a willing servant, a loving,
obedient son. With His own hands He worked in the carpenter’s
shop with Joseph. He did not employ divine power to lessen His
burdens or lighten His toil.
Jesus used His physical powers in such a way as to keep in health,
that He might do the best work.
He was not willing to be defective, even in handling tools. He
was perfect as a workman, as He was perfect in character. By
example He taught that work should be performed with exactness
and thoroughness and that labor is honorable. God appointed work
as a blessing, and only the diligent worker finds the true glory and
joy of life. The approval of God rests on children and youth who
take their part in the duties of the household, sharing the burdens of
father and mother.
[43]
Jesus was an earnest and constant worker. He expected much;
therefore He attempted much. 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. Because they seek to evade
this discipline, many are weak, inefficient, nerveless, and almost
useless when difficulties are met. The positiveness and strength of
character manifested in Christ are to be developed in us, through the
same discipline He endured. The grace He received is for us.
Our Saviour shared the lot of the poor. Those who have a true
conception of His life will never feel that the rich are to be honored
above the worthy poor.