How can we cultivate praise like "children and infants" in our lives? opening the text “From the mouths of children and infants You have ordained praise, on account of Your adversaries, to silence the enemy and avenger.” (Psalm 8:2) what praise looks like through young eyes • Spontaneous—kids don’t rehearse delight; it flows at the smallest wonder. • Undistracted—little ones lock in on what amazes them and forget everything else. • Trust-soaked—children assume the goodness of the One they’re praising. • Loud and wholehearted—no half-measures, no self-consciousness. (cf. Matthew 21:15-16) hindrances to childlike praise • Cynicism born of age and disappointment • Fear of what others will think • Overfamiliarity with God’s works and Word • Busyness that leaves no room for wonder (Luke 10:41-42) practices that unlock a childlike heart • Slow down to notice—pause at sunrise, birdsong, answered prayer; then say it out loud: “Thank You, Lord!” (Psalm 19:1) • Read Scripture aloud—hearing the words stirs fresh awe (Romans 10:17). • Sing simple songs—choruses you learned long ago or short refrains from the Psalms (Psalm 100:1-2). • Celebrate small victories—lost keys found, a kind word received, daily bread on the table (James 1:17). • Confess quickly—unconfessed sin dulls praise; repentance restores it (1 John 1:9). • Practice gratitude lists—write five things daily, then speak them back to God. • Spend time with children—let their excitement bleed into your own soul (Luke 18:16-17). • Memorize bite-sized verses—carry them on your lips through the day (Psalm 119:11). living it out each day Morning: greet the Lord as soon as you wake—“Good morning, Father!” (Psalm 5:3). Commute or chores: sing or whisper a worship line repeatedly. Mealtimes: pause before eating; name one fresh reason for gratitude (Acts 27:35). Evening: recount where you saw God’s hand; thank Him aloud (Psalm 34:1). Childlike praise isn’t naïve; it’s warfare that “silences the enemy and avenger.” Cultivate these habits and watch your heart erupt with the same joyful, unhindered worship God draws from children and infants. |
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