How can we "bring little children" to Jesus in our daily lives today? Setting the Scene “Then little children were brought to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them and pray for them, but the disciples rebuked those who brought them.” (Matthew 19:13) The scene is clear and literal: caring adults moved children physically toward the Lord. That same impulse still guides us, even when we cannot place a child in Jesus’ physical arms. Scripture supplies timeless patterns for doing so. Why Children Matter to Jesus • They exemplify kingdom posture. “Whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4) • They are recipients of divine revelation. “From infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:15) • They display praise ordained by God. “From the mouths of children and infants You have ordained praise.” (Psalm 8:2) Practical Ways to Bring Children to Jesus • Prioritize regular attendance in Christ-centered worship gatherings. • Invite them into family devotions, even if brief—read, sing, pray. • Keep Christian music, art, and literature accessible at home. • Celebrate milestones with Scripture (birthdays, first Bible, baptisms). Modeling Faith That Draws Them In • Live transparently: confess sin, express gratitude, practice forgiveness. • Demonstrate obedience in daily choices; children notice patterns more than explanations. • Let them see sacrificial love—serving neighbors, honoring marriage vows. Words That Plant Seeds • Quote Scripture naturally in conversation. • Explain why you trust Christ when facing difficulty. • Speak blessing: “The LORD bless you and keep you.” (Numbers 6:24) Routines That Keep the Door Open • Morning: pray over them as Jesus did—out loud and by name. • Mealtime: read a short passage; invite each child to share one observation. • Bedtime: recount God’s faithfulness that day; sing a hymn or worship chorus. A Home That Reflects His Presence • Display verses on walls or fridge—constant visual reminders. • Limit media opposed to biblical truth; guard what shapes their imaginations. • Show hospitality—welcoming other families illustrates Christ’s open arms. Serving Together • Participate in church ministries suited to their age (greeting, packing food boxes, visiting shut-ins). • Encourage giving—provide small allowances so they can tithe or support missions. • Sponsor a child or missionary as a family and correspond regularly. Guarding Their Hearts • Teach discernment: “Test everything. Hold fast to what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21) • Use parental authority gently but firmly. “Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4) Depending on the Spirit • Remember salvation is a miracle. “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.” (John 6:44) • Pray persistently, trusting the Spirit to open eyes and hearts. • Rest in the promise: “In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge.” (Proverbs 14:26) Step by step, these practices place little ones within Christ’s reach. The same Savior who welcomed them in Galilee still welcomes them today. |
    |