1About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?”
2Jesus called a little child to him and put the child among them.3Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven.4So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. 5And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me. Matthew 18:1-5
What does it mean to be like a child? I when my children were young I was warned, “When your kids are 6 they think you are a genius. When they are 16 they think you are an idiot. When they are 26 they will start to admire your wisdom again.” I’ve found it to be very true so far and I’ll be those of you with adult children will agree that there is a lot of truth to that statement.
So what is a 6 year old like? The 6 year old child trust the parent for everything they need. The 6 year old isn’t always obedient, but very seldom questions the authority of the parent. They usually not only want to obey, but they really love it when the parent shows them they are proud of them. The child believes the parent has power and authority and wisdom and ability that far surpasses the child’s. The 6 year old also fully believes their parent loves them, even if they don’t really understand love at all.
Now apply that to our relationship to God. Do we trust God, really, like a child trust a parent to supply the next meal? Do we accept that God is sovereign and in control and do we truly want not just to obey him but make him proud? Do we rightly stand in awe at how far above us God is in every way? Do we simply love God and rest in his love for us, even while we know we don’t come close to comprehending the depth of that love.
Lord, I can be such a teenager. I can argue with you and I can fail to see You as the perfect parent You are. Help me to trust You completely and honor You with simple faith and love. Change me Lord. Beginner’s Online Bible Study *obbs*
What is your relationship with God like today? What is the thing you must change the most to be more childlike? When will you change it?
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