“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:3
The Innocence of Childhood
In our spiritual walk, we often forget the pure and innocent perspective children bring to life. As we look at our inner child, we should recognize that innocence is a valuable aspect of our faith. Jesus often spoke about the significance of approaching our relationship with God with child-like faith. When we connect with our inner child, we can see the world without preconceived notions, filled with wonder and curiosity. This innocent perspective challenges us to trust God simply and sincerely, reminding us that faith does not have to be complicated. By embracing our inner child, we open ourselves to experiencing joy and marveling at God’s creations. Let’s reconnect with that genuine love and trust, as we learn to rely on God just like children rely on their parents.
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 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
Matthew 19:14
“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
Proverbs 22:6
“Train a child in the way they should go, and when they are old they will not turn from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
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
The Importance of Play
As adults, we can forget how important play and creativity are for our emotional and spiritual health. Our inner child thrives on play and imagination. Engaging in joyful activities revives a sense of freedom and spontaneity that we may have lost over time. The Bible calls us to embrace joy and fulfillment in our lives. By playing and allowing ourselves to bring fun into our daily routines, we nourish our inner child. This not only fosters a healthy mindset but strengthens our relationship with God, as we start seeing the world through a lighter, joyous lens. Let us take time to enjoy, laugh, and remember that life is a gift filled with wonder.
Ecclesiastes 3:4
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.” – Ecclesiastes 3:4
Psalm 126:2
“Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them.’” – Psalm 126:2
Proverbs 17:22
“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” – Proverbs 17:22
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
Isaiah 35:10
“And those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.” – Isaiah 35:10
The Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a crucial aspect of healing our inner child. Often, the pains we carry from our own childhood can hinder us from fully embracing God’s love. As we encounter Christ’s teachings, we learn that forgiveness is not just about liberating others; it’s about releasing ourselves from burdens. We can forgive those who have wronged us and also forgive ourselves for our mistakes. It is through forgiveness that we can mend our relationship with our inner child, allowing it to feel whole and free again. Feeling and embracing this grace is critical as we adult in faith, showing love, mercy, and kindness towards ourselves and others.
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Matthew 6:14
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14
Luke 6:37
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” – Luke 6:37
Isaiah 43:25
“I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.” – Isaiah 43:25
The Joy of Self-Acceptance
Finding joy in who we are is essential in understanding and nurturing our inner child. We might struggle with self-image and acceptance, but the Bible reassures us that we are wonderfully made in God’s image. Embracing our true selves involves understanding that we are all unique and created for a purpose. Every quirk, flaw, and talent adds to the beauty of our personality. When we see ourselves through God’s eyes, we reflect on our inner child with kindness and appreciation. Let’s cultivate self-love and acceptance, nurturing our inner child who seeks approval and love from within.
Psalm 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:14
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Romans 8:1
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 8:1
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
Galatians 2:20
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20
The Need for Connection and Community
Our inner child seeks connection and belonging. As we reflect on our lives, we realize how important it is to foster relationships. In the Bible, God emphasizes the need for community and connection. We were not made to be alone; God created us to be in fellowship with others. When we nourish our relationships, we feed our inner child’s desire for love and companionship. By building these connections, we find peace, joy, and a sense of belonging. Let’s strive to strengthen our community ties and support one another, as we’re called to love and bear one another’s burdens regardless of the past.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
The Call to Hope and Healing
Healing our inner child is a journey filled with hope. The Bible is a book of hope, and we can trust God’s promise of healing—emotionally and spiritually. As we relinquish pain and hurt, we find hope in being renewed. God longs for us to be complete and whole, and He assures us of His guidance and restoration. We have a faithful God who walks alongside us on this healing path. Let’s encourage each other to trust in God’s plan, positioning ourselves to learn from the past while moving toward the future with expectant hope.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Psalm 30:5
“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” – Psalm 30:5
Isaiah 61:1
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” – Isaiah 61:1
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
Psalm 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
Final Thoughts
As we ponder the importance of our inner child, we can see how embracing this part of ourselves is essential to our spiritual journey. From valuing innocence and joy to understanding self-acceptance and community, we realize how these elements come together to shape our lives. Forgiveness, connection, and hope are crucial themes we draw strength from as we nurture our inner child. By focusing on these biblical teachings, we not only enhance our relationship with ourselves but grow closer to God.
This journey is one of healing and empowerment. Let’s embrace the trust and joy of a child and move forward with confidence in our faith. God’s promise of hope and healing is available to us, transforming our lives in ways we never imagined. Together, we can learn to celebrate our inner child, allowing it to flourish.
If you wish to explore further about forgiveness, don’t forget to check out our references on forgiving your parents and forgiveness and letting go.