"Every child may gain knowledge as Jesus did. As we try to become acquainted with our heavenly Father through His word, angels will draw near, our minds will be strengthened, our characters will be elevated and refined. We shall become more like our Saviour. And as we behold the beautiful and grand in nature, our affections go out after God. While the spirit is awed, the soul is invigorated by coming in contact with the Infinite through His works. Communion with God through prayer develops the mental and moral faculties, and the spiritual powers strengthen as we cultivate thoughts upon spiritual things."
Here are words to live by. We grow in grace each day as we follow the life and example of Jesus from childhood through youth and adulthood. He has plainly shown us the way. There is a text that I have loved ever since I was a child. It drew me to Him in love and continues to do so.
Philippians 4:8,9--
8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise think on these things.
9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
As a child I wanted so much to be like Jesus. At the age of 3 I was given this text to recite. I remember it well. My father lifted me up on stage and I confidently recited it word for word. My understanding was very simple....if I think about good things Jesus will be with me and I will be like Him. It's so important to teach children when they are very young.