“At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:1-3
Humility of Children
In reflecting on the spiritual innocence of children, we recognize that they embody humility and a deep trust in those who care for them. As followers of Christ, we should strive to cultivate a similar humility and openness towards God. Children do not carry the burdens of pride or arrogance, and their eagerness to learn can teach us how to approach our faith with sincerity and a willingness to grow. By being humble like children, we not only enhance our relationship with God but also make space for His love and teachings to flourish in our hearts.
Matthew 18:4
“Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:4
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
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
Psalm 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” – Psalm 127:3
Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” – Ephesians 6:4
Faith Without Doubt
Children possess a beautiful and innocent faith that is often untainted by the complexities of adult life. Their trust in their parents mirrors our trust in God. We are encouraged to have that same kind of faith, one that doesn’t waver with doubt or fear. Our childlike faith allows us to see the goodness of God and His promises clearly. As we nurture our faith, we should strive to keep it pure, just as children see the world with wonder and hope.
Mark 10:15
“Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” – Mark 10:15
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
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
Luke 10:21
“At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.” – Luke 10:21
Romans 10:17
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17
Protection of Children
God has set a high standard for the love and protection we should offer to children. They are precious and hold a special place in His Kingdom. As a community, we are called to protect their innocence and nurture their spirits. This responsibility is not just for parents but also for everyone who stands in the body of Christ. In keeping children safe, we honor their value and purpose in God’s plan.
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
Psalms 91:11
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” – Psalms 91:11
Matthew 19:14
“Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 19:14
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
Mark 9:37
“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 9:37
The Joy of Children
Children bring a unique kind of joy into our lives. Their laughter, curiosity, and untamed spirit remind us of the simpler pleasures in life. Often, we can forget to find joy in the small moments, but children help us see the beauty that surrounds us. Sharing experiences with children can keep our hearts light and connected to the goodness God offers. May we find delight in the purity of their joy and allow it to inspire our own outlook on life.
Isaiah 11:6
“The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them.” – Isaiah 11:6
1 Chronicles 25:1
“David, together with the commanders of the army, set apart some of the descendants of Asaph, Heman and Jeduthun for the ministry of prophesying, accompanied by harps, lyres and cymbals.” – 1 Chronicles 25:1
Psalm 8:2
“Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.” – Psalm 8:2
Zephaniah 3:17
“The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” – Zephaniah 3:17
Proverbs 17:6
“Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.” – Proverbs 17:6
Children’s Learning and Growth
As children navigate through their early years, they absorb the lessons that we share with them. Their learning is a reflection of both the teachings we provide and the environment we create. This is a time when their innocence leads them toward knowledge of God and His ways. As a united community in faith, it becomes our duty to instill in them the values of kindness, compassion, and love, which will empower them as they grow.
Deuteronomy 6:7
“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 6:7
Colossians 3:21
“Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” – Colossians 3:21
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
Isaiah 54:13
“All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.” – Isaiah 54:13
Matthew 28:19
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 28:19
The Love of God for Children
God holds a special love for children, which is evident throughout Scripture. He desires a close relationship with them and delights in their innocence. As we seek to mirror this love in our interactions with children, we embody a faith that reflects God’s heart. This love is not just limited to our families, but it extends to all the children in our communities. Together, we can create an environment that fosters their growth in faith and love.
Matthew 25:40
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” – Matthew 25:40
Mark 10:14
“When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” – Mark 10:14
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Matthew 7:11
“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” – Matthew 7:11
Isaiah 44:3
“For I will pour out water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants.” – Isaiah 44:3
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the theme of child innocence, we see how important it is to nurture the purity, faithfulness, and joy that children embody. We are called to live humbly and trustingly like them, finding a deeper connection with God and His teachings. Let’s strive to protect and empower the children in our lives, ensuring that they grow in an environment filled with love and guidance.
By embracing the teachings found in the Scriptures, we can foster a community that values the innocence of children. Their laughter and wonder can lead us to appreciate the simple gifts God provides every day. Each verse serves as a reminder of our responsibility and privilege in nurturing the next generation and reflecting God’s love.
Let us continue to explore more about God’s love, including how He views children in our lives. You might want to check out some meaningful Bible verses about love and children, as well as Bible verses about Jesus loving children.