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
Embracing a Childlike Faith
When we think about being childlike, it’s important to explore how this impacts our faith. Jesus teaches us that childlike faith is essential for entering the kingdom of heaven. It signifies trusting fully and completely in God without the barriers that often come with adult reasoning. As we grow older, it can be too easy to let skepticism or doubt creep into our beliefs. However, when we adopt a childlike faith, we put our trust in God as children do with their parents. This trust opens avenues for a close relationship with God, inviting us to rely on His wisdom and guidance in all things.
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
Luke 18:17
“Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” – Luke 18:17
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
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 131:2
“But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.” – Psalm 131:2
Being Open to New Experiences
Childlikeness also embodies openness and curiosity about the world around us and God’s goodness. Children show us how to remain open to new experiences without fear or hesitation. They explore with wonder and excitement, absorbing lessons from every encounter. As Christians, we are called to approach life with that same enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. When we embrace a childlike attitude, we become more receptive to God’s teachings and the surprises He has in store for us. This perspective encourages us to look at life through a lens of awe and appreciation rather than cynicism.
Matthew 11:25
“At that time Jesus 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.'” – Matthew 11:25
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
Isaiah 11:6
“The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, and the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them.” – Isaiah 11:6
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
1 Corinthians 14:20
“Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults.” – 1 Corinthians 14:20
The Importance of Innocence
In our journey of being childlike, we can reflect upon the value of innocence. Children possess a purity and an untainted perspective on the world. This innocence allows them to experience joy without the burdens that often come with adulthood. Similarly, we are called to appreciate the innocence in our faith—approaching God with pure intentions and a sincere heart. By allowing innocence to guide our faith, we can focus more on loving others and embracing the good around us, rather than getting caught up in negativity. God desires for us to have vibrant hearts that reflect His love.
Matthew 5:8
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” – Matthew 5:8
Mark 9:42
“If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea.” – Mark 9:42
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
Luke 1:78-79
“Because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.” – Luke 1:78-79
Isaiah 54:13
“All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.” – Isaiah 54:13
Receiving and Giving Love
Love is a powerful force that children often embody so effortlessly. Children freely give love, and likewise, they are open to receiving love. In our Christian walk, we are reminded to both give and receive love like children. This means being vulnerable, allowing ourselves to be loved by others, and showing love regardless of the circumstances. It encourages us to have hearts that break for others, to care deeply, and to share our love without holding back. Remembering the childlike way we once approached love can transform our relationships and lead to deeper connections with both God and others.
John 13:34
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Ephesians 5:2
“And walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” – Ephesians 5:2
1 Thessalonians 3:12
“May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 3:12
Finding Joy in Simplicity
Children find joy in the simplest of things—whether it’s a sunny day, a butterfly, or time spent playing with friends. Our lives can often feel complicated and stressful, causing us to overlook the beauty in simplicity. When we embrace a childlike perspective, we can learn to enjoy the small blessings God gives us each day. By cherishing simple moments, we invite deeper peace and joy into our lives. The Bible teaches us to be aware of the blessings that surround us, helping us to cultivate gratitude and appreciation, much like a child relishes the little joys.
Philippians 4:4
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4
Psalm 118:24
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24
Proverbs 17:22
“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” – Proverbs 17:22
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
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
Trusting God’s Provision
Childlike trust is a theme that we find throughout the Scriptures. Children trust wholeheartedly that their needs will be met by their parents, and we are called to trust God in the same way. In one sense, being childlike involves surrendering our worries and doubts to God and trusting that He will provide everything essential for our lives. This active faith reassures us that we are cared for, cherished, and watched over. Disregarding the adult tendency to worry, we can lean into God’s promises and rest in the assurance of His constant presence and provision.
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
Matthew 6:26
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” – Matthew 6:26
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 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
1 Peter 5:7
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on being childlike, we see the necessity of embodying childlike faith in our walk with God. By trusting as children do, we embrace openness to new experiences and the innocence that comes with our journey. Loving and receiving love is central to this journey, and finding joy in simplicity brings us closer to the heart of God.
As we learn to trust like children, we rely on God’s provision to shape our lives and guide our paths. Embracing our childlike nature allows us to enjoy the smaller things in life and leads us to a deeper relationship with God.
We encourage you to explore more on topics of faith, innocence, and love. You might enjoy learning about Bible verses about children or Bible verses about innocence. Let’s journey together, growing in childlike faith and love!