Be A Child

See Matthew 18:1 — At that time, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" The question reveals that they do not have an idea of the kingdom of heaven.

Somehow, there was discomfort and agitation on the part of the disciples; they sensed that they were not part of the inner circle of Christ. But Matthew 17 showed Peter, Jams, and John so privileged, for they were taken up the mountain to accompany Jesus and witness the transfiguration. Matthew 16 showed Peter so distinguished and honored by Christ, for having declared his faith that Jesus was the Messiah.

In the disciples' hearts were envy, jealousy, and ambition. Somehow, they lost sight of the kingdom's purpose. Instead of seeking places of service, they sought positions of advantage. That is how the adult mind works and how complicated adults' hearts are. To answer the disciples' question, Jesus called a little child to stand among them (Matthew 18:2).

The five chapters of 1 John have warnings to the church, the children, and brothers and sisters on false teachers. 1 John 5:21 says, Dear children, keep yourselves from idols. "Beware of them! Keep your guard!" John was aware that many things become idols in adults' lives. They get preeminence over God and Christ.

What are your idols? The Bible refers to them as the lust of the eys, lust of the flesh, and the boastful pride of life. There is also the danger that even our basic requirements to survive become idols. Matthew 6:31-32 says that you should not worry about all these things, for "your heavenly Father knows that you need them." The Parable of the Sower tells us that the cares of this world choke the seed that God has put in our lives if we become focused on the things that we want, the pursuit of material gain, and the entitlements in life.

Matthew 18:3 says, "unless you turn to God and become as little children, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven." It is like another very famous verse, John 3:3 — Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, UNLESS one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

Let us take this encounter with Nicodemus, a good man, an adult; well advanced in years. He is a member of the Jewish ruling council; hence, he is a wise man, a learned, scholarly, and highly-respected religious authority. For someone in that position, he responded very predictably (John 3:4): "How can a man be born when he is old? Surely, he cannot enter a second time into his mothers womb to be born!"

It is all about Childlike Faith. We must be teachable. Keep in mind that while we live, breath, and remain in this world, we are in our spiritual formative years.

Start with Childlike Conversations. This is about unceasing prayer and petition to your Father. He desires and delights in the prayers of His children — innocent, pure, without malice, charming, pleasant, and talking without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). Ask like a child (1 John 3:21-22; James 4:2-3) by praying with the right motives. God's part is to listen and respond with "Yes," "No," or "Wait."

Childlike Dependence. God's got everything covered. Whether good or bad, you know that He will work everything out for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

Childlike Curiosity. We must say, "I am not yet what I ought to be." Seek God to get to know Him more, to understand His ways and thoughts.

Childlike Humility. The Bible says that if you are to boast, boast in this thing: that you know God (Matthew 5:3). You cannot enter heaven until you acknowledge that your transgressions and sins are abominations to God, because you hang on to your idols.

Humble men are very fortunate (Romans 12:3). They are clear in their minds about what they are — their gifts, their personality, and their character. They are level-headed, fair, and unbiased.

Childlike Obedience. In Matthew 18:2, Jesus called a little child and had him stand among the disciples. The child did exactly as asked, even though being placed among adults can be very scary.

Childlike Trust. God has us covered whether or not things are bad outside (Matthew 18:6). He is protective of His children and loves those whom He values the most.

Childlike Surrender. We must say, "Father, not my will but Yours be done."

God creates situations where we end up broken like the prodigal son. With his brokenness came illumination, then humility and contrition. Why did the prodigal son leave in the first place? He had it all. He had a great life, as the son of a very rich and privileged man. But, he had no contentment. He wanted more.

Childlike Contentment Contentment. When you find yourself grumbling or complaining, ask yourself, what is it about "in everything, give thanks" do I not understand? Nothing that comes from the hand of God can be bad for us (1 Timothy 6:6-10).

Things may go well for now, but down the line, the consequences may catch up. Even if it doesn't, what's the use of gaining the whole world if you forfeit your soul? We must evaluated ourselves and ask, HOW MUST I CHANGE to have Childlike Faith?

Let us not confuse wants with needs. In the Old Testament, God said, "Gather only as much as you need." In the New Testament, he said to ask, "Give us this day our daily bread." Trust in God (Matthew 18:4). Be a Child. Relearn the BAC's of Conversation, Dependence, Curiosity, Humility, Trust, Surrender, and Contentment.