Like a Child

. . . unless you . . . become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. (Matt. 18:3)

Every Christian needs childlike faith in God. In this self-reliant age, however, we sometimes fail to recognize that our trust must be in Him, not in what we can do. Although we are usually willing to rely on God for wisdom in the big decisions in life, we often fret about everyday concerns. We forget that He knows our needs and has everything under control. So we attempt to solve problems with our own wisdom. We become too sophisticated to have the faith of a little child.

Many years ago a passenger ship made its way toward the harbor at Plymouth, England. The weather during the journey had been excellent, so the vessel would be landing ahead of schedule-at night instead of the next morning. This upset a number of the passengers. Many of them had never been to England, and they were troubled because they had to change their train connections or get unexpected hotel reservations. The little children on board, however, never worried for a moment. They continued to run, play, and laugh-unaffected by altered plans. Why were they so calm? They had childlike faith in the wisdom and love of their parents.

When Jesus wanted to teach His disciples about greatness, He used a little child as an object lesson. He said that we have no better example of faith than that of a trusting child. What comfort there is in relying on the Father and resting in His wisdom, love, and power! What joy in becoming as little children! P.R.V.

Lord, give me the faith of a little child
Who trusts so implicitly,
Who simply and gladly believes
Thy Word,
And never questions Thee.
-Showerman

(The above tract was found stuck between the pages of a used book I purchased recently.--Gary)