Young Prince Frederick, son of Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany years ago, like many another boy and girl, was somewhat spoiled as a child. Some interesting stories have been told of his willfulness.
In common with many other small boys his Highness had a great dislike for soap and water. Often he flatly refused to allow his nurse to wash his hands and face. One morning, to his immense delight, he was allowed to go out unwashed, and for a time he reveled in his freedom. But happening to pass the sentry on guard at the palace gates, he was surprised to find that the sentry did not salute him. The young prince was greatly offended and went at once to report the guard to his father, Kaiser Wilhelm. Pouring out his tale of woe, he expected to have the guard reprimanded.
To his astonishment the Kaiser merely said, “The guard did quite right. Surely you do not expect him to salute a dirty boy?”
The lesson had its effect, and from then on the nurse had no further trouble with the young prince, in applying the soap and water.
Young Christians, and older ones too, sons and daughters of the heavenly King, should act “as becometh saints” (Eph. 5:33But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; (Ephesians 5:3)). Sometimes, sad to say, they act otherwise, instead of honoring the Saviour to whom they belong. They act like the world around them to their own shame and to His dishonor. Sometimes God allows the world to rebuke his children; but this is “that we might be partakers of His holiness.” Heb. 12:1010For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. (Hebrews 12:10).
May we who name Christ as our Saviour ever remember that He did not redeem us to do as we please, but that we might be to His honor and praise while down here in this dark world, as soon we shall be in the bright glory above.
“Walk as children of light.” Eph. 5: 8.
ML 03/05/1967