Matthew 18:2-4 – Childlike Faith

And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

(Matthew 18:2-4 ESV)

Having watched my children grow up and become self sufficient, it is easy to forget how dependent they were when they were younger. This truth is one reason why grandchildren are so much fun!

You get to relive watching a baby that needs everything to survive become a walking, talking little person; and then eventually become an adult. It still amazes me to see my oldest grandson say his ABCs and interact with others realizing that not too many years ago he was a “helpless” newborn.

When I read the verses above I am reminded that as a mature adult, from a worldly perspective, I am pretty much self sufficient.

I have enough money to get almost anything I want—definitely anything I need. I still have my health. I have a wonderful wife and family. The key word in the first sentence of this paragraph is “worldly.”

The reality is that God is my provider, Jesus is the reason I am acceptable to God (Colossians 1:22). I am not worthy of God, I am not really self sufficient without him. I am dependent on God for everything just as my grandson is dependent on his parents for survival (Romans 8:32).

As an adult I can become too self-sufficient and have too big an ego. I pray that God will help me to focus on him in a childlike way, realizing I am dependent on him for everything that matters.

Do you realize your dependence on God?

Guest Devotional by Dennis Bell. Dennis is a business owner who enjoys riding his bike, fishing, and serving at the church. He has been heavily involved with special needs children ministry. Learn how you can become a guest writer.