Childlike Faith

Men's Night 3031 was such a blessing to me. Nothing quite stirs my heart like men coming together to worship and lift up praises to God. To see men of all different ages, all different backgrounds and all different stages in their spiritual journey joined together as brothers in Christ is a great reminder of how our Lord works in and through us to minister to others.

I'm still thinking about Jesus' words in Matthew 18:4--whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. I spoke about certain childlike qualities---trust that is undefiled by disappointment and unmet expectations, vulnerability that recognizes the need for security and protection and a neediness that requires the resources and provision of a loving parent---that should point us to our Heavenly Father. Yet I find still more things come to mind when I consider the idea of having childlike faith.

My daughter Amanda asks a lot of questions. Her 7-year-old mind seems to be constantly thinking and processing the things she sees and hears and fuels her desire for understanding. This has given me tremendous opportunity to pour into her and build a foundation that I pray will someday lead her to a personal relationship with Christ. It also reminds me of Matthew 7:7 where the Bible tells us to ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find it; knock, and it will be opened to you. Amanda comes to me with childlike faith and trust that I can provide her what she needs and likewise, I need that same faith and trust in my Father. I must ask, seek and knock; knowing He will provide what I need.

Childlike faith also recognizes that their parents' desire is ultimately for their good; even though it may not be a child's first choice. For us to have childlike faith in God, we must cling to the promise that He works all things for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28); even when we can't fully understand all the whys and hows.