Although Jesus was treated badly by His brothers, He didn’t become bitter or angry. People asked him again and again, “Why do you submit to such spiteful harassment?” 

Jesus answered, “It is written. ‘The fear of the Lord is wisdom; and to depart from evil is  understanding.’  ’My son, forget not My law; but let your heart keep My commandments: for length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to
you. . . .  So will you find favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man.’” 

That is how Jesus armed Himself against His enemies. He had a treasure house filled with the most precious words. Often He was asked, “Why are you determined to be so different from us?”

Jesus would reply, “It is written, ‘Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep His testimonies, and that seek Him with the whole heart. They do no sin: they walk in His ways. You have commanded us to keep Your commandments diligently.’”

His friends tried to get Him to act as they did, and not to be odd and different. They liked His bright, cheerful suggestions, but not, what they called, His narrow and straightlaced ways.

He answered, “It is written, ‘How shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart have I sought You: O let me not wander from Your commandments. Your word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against You. You are blessed, O Lord: teach me Your ways.'” 

“Why do you not enjoy games and sports, as other youth do?” they questioned.

“It is written,” He answered, “‘I find joy in the way of Your testimonies, as much as in great riches. I will meditate on Your instructions, and respect Your ways. I will find delight in Your instruction: I will not forget Your word.’”

This is a lesson for all children and youth.