Youth Leadership
285
apparently careless and hopeless.—
Counsels on Sabbath School Work,
77
.
[276]
Christ is grieved with every harsh, severe, and inconsiderate
word spoken to children—Let the kindness and courtesy of the min-
ister be seen in his treatment of children. He should ever bear in mind
that they are miniature men and women, younger members of the
Lord’s family. These may be very near and dear to the Master, and, if
properly instructed and disciplined, will do service for Him, even in
their youth. Christ is grieved with every harsh, severe, and inconsider-
ate word spoken to children. Their rights are not always respected, and
they are frequently treated as though they had not an individual char-
acter which needs to be properly developed, that it may not be warped
and the purpose of God in their lives prove a failure.—
Testimonies for
the Church 4:397
.
In every sermon, let a little corner be left for children—In His
charge to Peter, the Saviour first bade him, “Feed My lambs,” and after-
ward commanded, “Feed My sheep.” In addressing the apostle, Christ
says to all His servants, “Feed My lambs.” When Jesus admonished
His disciples not to despise the little ones, He addressed all disciples
in all ages. His own love and care for children is a precious example
for His followers. If teachers in the Sabbath school felt the love which
they should feel for these lambs of the flock, many more would be
won to the fold of Christ. At every suitable opportunity, let the story
of Jesus’ love be repeated to the children. In every sermon let a little
corner be left for their benefit. The servant of Christ may have lasting
friends in these little ones, and his words may be to them as apples of
gold in pictures of silver.—
Counsels on Sabbath School Work, 76
.
Children should be in attendance at Sabbath worship—
Fathers and mothers should make it a rule that their children attend
public worship on the Sabbath, and should enforce the rule by their
own example. It is our duty to command our children and our house-
hold after us, as did Abraham. By example as well as precept we
should impress upon them the importance of religious teaching. All
who have taken the baptismal vow have solemnly consecrated them-
selves to the service of God; they are under covenant obligation to
place themselves and their children where they may obtain all possible
incentives and encouragement in the Christian life.—
Child Guidance,
530
.