“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
Jesus Welcoming Children
In our faith journey, we recognize how Jesus loved and welcomed children. His open arms signify acceptance and love. This is a reminder for us to nurture that same welcoming spirit towards children in our lives. Jesus taught us that children are precious in the sight of God, and we must replicate His love by being kind, patient, and supportive. Each interaction we have with children is an opportunity to express the love of Christ, guiding them to understand their worth and the importance of a relationship with Him. By embracing children, we, too, take part in the beautiful mission of showing Christ’s love through our actions.
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
Mark 10:16
“And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” – Mark 10:16
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 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
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.” – Luke 9:48
The Importance of Teaching Children
We know that teaching children about Jesus and His love is crucial. The Bible encourages us to impart wisdom and knowledge to the younger generation. We have the privilege and responsibility to pass on our faith and values. When we share the stories of Jesus, His teachings, and examples, we plant seeds in the hearts of our children, nurturing their understanding of His grace. Teaching them scripture and encouraging a genuine relationship with God will guide them throughout their lives. It is through our dedication to teaching that they can fully grasp the beauty of the love that Jesus has for them.
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
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
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
Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” – Ephesians 6:4
Psalm 78:4
“We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.” – Psalm 78:4
The Innocence of Children
Children remind us of the innocence and purity that God desires from us all. When we reflect on how Jesus valued children, we are reminded of the simple faith and humility that we should embody as adults. Christ’s teachings urge us to have hearts that are open and trusting, just like those of children. As we look to Jesus, we can learn how to embrace a posture of peace and closeness to God, shedding any preconceived notions that hinder true faith. Our approach to believing should carry the same sincerity and trust as that found in a child.
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 10:15
“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
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
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
God’s Plan for Children
God has a specific plan for each child. The Bible encourages us to not only recognize but also foster their gifts and callings. It’s heartwarming to see how deeply valuable children are to God’s design for creation. We can partner with God in their growth by offering guidance, support, and unconditional love. When children see their worth and potential in God’s plans, they blossom into the individuals God created them to be. We, as a community, have a special role in reinforcing their significance through encouragement and affirmation.
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 139:13-14
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:13-14
Isaiah 44:3
“For I will pour 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
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
The Value of Prayer for Children
Prayer plays an essential role in the spiritual lives of our children. We can pray for their protection, guidance, and growth. Jesus emphasized the importance of a relationship with God, and through prayer, we can cultivate that for the younger generation. Teaching children to pray helps them connect with Jesus and understand the power of bringing their concerns and joys to Him. Through prayer, they learn that God is always listening, which builds a strong foundation for their faith journey.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
1 John 5:14
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” – 1 John 5:14
Matthew 7:7
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
Ephesians 6:18
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” – Ephesians 6:18
The Joy of Being Childlike
Being childlike boosts our experience with God. Children possess qualities like wonder, curiosity, and joy that remind us of how we can engage with our faith. It invites us to relinquish some adult distractions and burdens, inviting us to see God and His creation through the eyes of a child. When we approach our faith and relationship with Jesus playfully and boldly, it results in authentic joy in our journey. Embracing this childlike spirit allows us to connect genuinely with God and become His faithful followers.
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
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
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
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
Psalm 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” – Psalm 127:3
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the Bible verses about children and Jesus, we see a clear pattern of love, importance, and connection. Jesus shows us how much he cherishes children, teaching us to welcome and nurture them in His name. Together, we have the opportunity to guide children by sharing our faith, teaching them the stories and lessons of the Bible, and encouraging them to create a lasting relationship with God.
Through prayer, we can support their journey, helping them explore the beauty and joy of faith. Each child is a unique creation with God’s plan mapped out for their future. We must foster an environment that allows them to thrive and unlock their potential in Him. Let us continue to honor Jesus by seeing children through His loving eyes, actively participating in their spiritual growth.
We are also invited to explore other relevant biblical teachings, like love and children or Jesus loving children, to enhance our understanding of God’s love.