“Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” – Matthew 19:14
The Value of Children
We often find ourselves in awe of the beauty and innocence of children. The Bible places immense value on our young ones, highlighting their importance in the Kingdom of God. Jesus welcomed children and made it clear that they hold a special place in His heart. When we think of children, let us remember that they are not just the future of our communities; they are a wonderful part of our present. Their laughter, curiosity, and pure faith teach us to embrace life with joy and wonder. As we strive to nurture and protect the children among us, let’s reflect on how they inspire us to grow closer to God and trust in His plans.
Psalm 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him.” – Psalm 127:3
Proverbs 22:6
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
Matthew 18:10
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.” – Matthew 18:10
Mark 10:16
“And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” – Mark 10:16
Luke 18:16
“But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” – Luke 18:16
Teaching and Training Children
As we take on the role of parents, guardians, or mentors, we are reminded of the incredible responsibility to teach and train our children. The Bible offers guidance on how to instill values and wisdom in the young ones entrusted to our care. Teaching children about God, love, kindness, and respect will lay a solid foundation for their future. It’s not just about the lessons we impart but also about embodying these teachings in our daily lives. We should live in a way that demonstrates God’s love so our children can see and experience it through us.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” – Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Proverbs 1:8
“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.” – Proverbs 1:8
2 Timothy 3:15
“And how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” – 2 Timothy 3:15
Colossians 3:21
“Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” – Colossians 3:21
Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” – Ephesians 6:4
God’s Love for Children
God’s love for children is incredibly profound. We are reminded repeatedly in Scripture that God cherishes and protects His little ones. He calls parents and the community to reflect this love in their actions and words. Understanding how God values children enables us to treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve. Our actions should mirror God’s relentless love, offering safety and acceptance to every child in our lives. As we witness the innocence of children, we’re invited to remember that we too are God’s children, learning and growing in His love.
Isaiah 54:13
“All your children will be taught by the LORD, and great will be their peace.” – Isaiah 54:13
Matthew 18:14
“In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.” – Matthew 18:14
Jeremiah 1:5
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” – Jeremiah 1:5
Matthew 21:16
““Do you hear what these children are saying?” They asked him. “Yes,” replied Jesus, “have you never read, ‘From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise’?” – Matthew 21:16
Psalm 103:17
“But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children.” – Psalm 103:17
Protection of Children
As we reflect on the theme of children in the Bible, it’s clear that God desires to protect and care for them. The Scriptures emphasize the necessity of safeguarding our children against harm, both physically and spiritually. We are called as a community to create safe spaces for them to grow, learn, and flourish. This isn’t just a parental duty; it’s a shared responsibility among all adults. Let’s endeavor to be vigilant in protecting the children’s innocence and guiding them toward a life filled with God’s love and truth.
Psalm 91:11
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” – Psalm 91:11
Matthew 18:6
“If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” – Matthew 18:6
Proverbs 14:26
“Whoever fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for their children, it will be a refuge.” – Proverbs 14:26
Isaiah 49:15
“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!” – Isaiah 49:15
Psalm 34:7
“The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.” – Psalm 34:7
Children’s Faith and Humility
There’s much we can learn about faith and humility from children. The Bible teaches us that childlike faith is precious in the eyes of God. Children often exhibit a simplicity and trust that can inspire us in our own relationship with the Lord. We are encouraged to embrace that innocence and humility as we approach our faith. By leaning into our childlike wonder, we have the opportunity to grow deeper in our faith journey, trusting in God’s promises and His eternal goodness.
Matthew 18:3
“And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:3
Mark 9:36-37
“He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.'” – Mark 9:36-37
Luke 9:48
“Then he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.'” – Luke 9:48
1 Peter 2:2
“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.” – 1 Peter 2:2
James 1:27
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” – James 1:27
Joy of Children
Children bring unparalleled joy and laughter into our lives. The Scriptures remind us of the importance of cherishing these moments. Their joy often serves as a reflection of God’s love in our lives, inviting us to relive that joy and embrace the blessings of today. In our interactions with children, we ought to cultivate an atmosphere of joy that reflects God’s goodness, allowing every child to experience love, laughter, and a sense of belonging. When we create joyful experiences for children, we create lasting memories that inspire a lifetime of faith.
Psalm 127:5
“Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.” – Psalm 127:5
Proverbs 17:6
“Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.” – Proverbs 17:6
Luke 1:14
“He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth.” – Luke 1:14
Isaiah 65:23
“They will not labor in vain, nor will they bear children doomed to misfortune; for they will be a people blessed by the LORD, they and their descendants with them.” – Isaiah 65:23
John 15:11
“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” – John 15:11
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the significance of children in the Bible inspires us to cherish, nurture, and protect the little ones in our lives. Their innocence reminds us of our need for God’s love and understanding as we strive to live according to His teachings. Whether through teaching them, providing protection, or sharing joyful moments, we actively participate in God’s wonderful plan for children. Children, as the future of our faith communities, play an essential role in the love-filled journey we all are on together.
As we embrace the words of Scripture, let us recognize the need to engage and uplift our young ones, giving them a joyful experience of faith and life. If you want to explore more inspiring moments related to children, consider reading Bible verses about children or Bible verses for little ones.
As we reflect on our journey, let us keep our hearts open to learning from children, while providing them a loving foundation to grow in faith.