How can we "become like little children" in our daily faith journey? Hearing the Words of Jesus “Truly I tell you,” He said, “unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 18:3 What Children Naturally Display • Trust without reservation • Humility that does not seek status • Dependence on their father or mother for every need • Wonder and delight in what is provided • Quickness to forgive and move on • Teachability, eager to learn and grow Why Jesus Commends Childlikeness • True greatness in His kingdom is measured by lowliness, not prominence (Matthew 18:4). • The Father reveals kingdom truths to the simple-hearted, not the self-sufficient (Matthew 11:25). • Receiving the kingdom hinges on childlike openness (Mark 10:15). Daily Steps for Cultivating Childlike Faith • Begin each morning acknowledging total dependence on the Lord, thanking Him for breath, provision, and guidance (Psalm 121:1-2). • Read Scripture with fresh eyes, asking the Spirit to stir wonder instead of routine familiarity (Psalm 119:18). • Choose humble service over self-promotion—look for unnoticed tasks and do them gladly (Philippians 2:3-4). • Speak to the Father simply and honestly; avoid empty phrases and impressing others (Matthew 6:7-8). • Practice quick forgiveness, refusing to keep score of wrongs (Ephesians 4:32). • Celebrate small gifts—a sunrise, a shared meal, an answered prayer—responding with audible gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Stay teachable by inviting trusted believers to correct and instruct you (Proverbs 9:9). • Crave “pure spiritual milk” through steady intake of the Word, allowing it to grow you up in salvation (1 Peter 2:2). Guardrails to Stay Childlike and Mature • Reject cynicism; it hardens the heart and clouds simple trust. • Resist prideful self-reliance; remember the branch bears no fruit apart from the vine (John 15:5). • Beware information overload that crowds out quiet, childlike communion. • Avoid entitlement; receive everything as a gift, not a wage (James 1:17). Encouragement for the Journey A child rests securely because a parent is near. In the same way, the believer walks confidently because the Father’s promises stand unshakable. Embracing childlikeness does not mean abandoning growth; it means growing deeper in humble, joyful dependence on the One who never fails. |
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