Children Everywhere

The Kingdom of God is a place of wonder, joy, and love—a place where the hearts of children shine brightly. Jesus made it clear that children hold a special place in God’s heart. 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). This statement is profound, reminding us that childlike qualities are essential in our journey of faith.

Why did Jesus emphasize becoming like little children? Because children possess remarkable characteristics—purity of heart, innocence, trust, and an ability to love freely. They are adventurous, artistic, creative, easygoing, energetic, funny, inquisitive, playful, joyful, kind, and resilient. As we grow older, life’s struggles and responsibilities often bury these beautiful qualities. However, God calls us to rediscover and cultivate them so that we may fully embrace His Kingdom.

1. The Purity and Innocence of a Child

One of the most beautiful qualities of children is their purity of heart. They see the world with fresh eyes, untainted by cynicism and bitterness. Jesus said in Matthew 5:8, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Children naturally exhibit this purity. They forgive quickly, love unconditionally, and approach life with sincerity.

As adults, our hearts can become hardened by past hurts, disappointments, and struggles. But God desires that we return to Him with the openness and purity of a child. Psalm 51:10 says, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” We must strive to keep our hearts clean, letting go of bitterness and embracing God’s love with the innocence of a child.

2. The Trust and Faith of a Child

Children trust without hesitation. When a loving parent tells them something, they believe it wholeheartedly. This is the kind of faith God wants us to have in Him. Proverbs 3:5 instructs us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

Children rely completely on their caregivers for provision, protection, and guidance. Likewise, we are called to trust God in the same way. Jesus reassures us in 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?” If we embrace childlike trust, we can walk confidently, knowing that God is in control of our lives.

3. The Joy and Playfulness of a Child

Children find joy in the simplest things. They laugh freely, dance without fear, and play without worry. In contrast, many adults carry burdens that rob them of joy. But the Bible reminds us in Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

God delights in our joy. He created us not only to serve Him but also to enjoy the abundant life He provides. Jesus said in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” A playful heart keeps us young, hopeful, and excited about God’s blessings.

4. The Creativity and Wonder of a Child

Children are naturally creative. They imagine great adventures, build castles out of nothing, and see possibilities where adults see obstacles. God, our Creator, has given us this gift of creativity. Genesis 1:27 says, “So God created mankind in His own image.” Since we are made in the image of God, we also have the ability to create, dream, and innovate.

Unfortunately, as we grow, we often suppress our creativity due to fear or societal expectations. But God wants us to embrace the imagination and curiosity of a child, using our gifts to glorify Him and bless others. Whether through music, art, writing, or problem-solving, we reflect God’s creativity when we express our God-given talents.

5. The Kindness and Love of a Child

Children love freely and without prejudice. They do not judge based on status, race, or appearance. Jesus calls us to love with this same sincerity. He commanded in John 13:34, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

God desires for us to love others the way children do—without conditions, reservations, or expectations of return. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 describes this kind of love: “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.” If we can learn to love like children, we will reflect the heart of God.

6. The Resilience and Forgiveness of a Child

Children are resilient. They may fall, but they get back up. They may argue, but they forgive quickly. This is a powerful lesson for us. In life, we will face difficulties, but we must not allow them to defeat us. Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Forgiveness is another trait we must embrace. Children do not hold grudges. They forgive and move forward, while adults often struggle with resentment. Jesus teaches us in Matthew 6:14, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” If we want to enter God’s Kingdom, we must learn to let go of past hurts and embrace the freedom of forgiveness.

7. The Humility of a Child

Children do not boast about status, wealth, or power. They live simply, appreciating the small joys of life. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 23:12, “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

To be great in the Kingdom of God, we must become humble like children. James 4:10 says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.” A humble heart trusts in God rather than personal achievements. When we recognize our need for Him, we open the door to His abundant blessings.

8. Cultivating Childlike Faith in Our Daily Lives

How can we reclaim these childlike qualities in our everyday lives? Here are a few ways:

Pray with Simplicity and Trust – Approach God as a loving Father who cares for you. Speak to Him openly and honestly.

Find Joy in the Small Things – Take time to appreciate God’s creation, laugh often, and enjoy moments of playfulness.

Practice Forgiveness and Love – Let go of grudges and love others freely.

Stay Curious and Creative – Explore new ways to use your God-given talents.

Live with Humility and Dependence on God – Acknowledge your need for God’s guidance in every aspect of life.

What may we conclude from this?

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). The qualities of children—purity, trust, joy, creativity, kindness, resilience, and humility—are the very qualities that bring us closer to God.

As we journey through life, let us not lose these childlike traits. Instead, let us embrace them, nurturing a heart that is open, loving, and full of wonder. By doing so, we not only draw closer to God but also reflect His Kingdom here on earth.

May we all seek to become like little children so that we may enter the Kingdom of God with hearts full of faith, love, and joy. Amen.

In late 2024, I saw a St. Jude Children’s Hospital advertisement that resonated with me. I began to understand how our Father in Heaven wants us to approach Him, not as some frightening, unreachable King ready to punish us for our wrongdoings or sins, but as a Father who loves us more than we can know or understand. Click to see if this advertisement resonates with you.