Thursday, April 16

THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2020

"People were also bringing babies to Jesus to have him touch them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.'" (Luke 18:15-17)


In these verses, Jesus helps us to approach Him like a "little child." Children bring raw honesty, innocence, and joy in their relationships, which all point to a soft heart. Unfortunately, we tend to become hardened through time by the pains and struggles of life, and our approach to others and to God becomes more reserved and tentative.

I am very grateful for this reminder to approach God with a childlike love and confidence. It speaks to simplifying and resting in the Father's presence and surrendering a trusting heart to His loving care. It means breaking down the walls of "strength" and hardness and coming to Him in vulnerability.

I have found that, when I have approached God in vulnerability and weakness, He has met me every time. With such an attitude, the Scriptures becomes more vivid. Prayer becomes a richer conversation. My joy grows and flourishes. And the Spirit can take better control of my heart.

This passage also emphasize the attractiveness of Jesus's love. Throughout the Gospels, we find that humble people sought Him out, for they knew that He had come from God and that He had brought love, peace, and joy to a hurting world. The same holds true today, but we may not welcome Jesus fully into our daily lives because of our cautious "adult" hearts.

How can you lay before God today in childlike honesty and vulnerability? For what could you express your gratefulness? How has He shown His tremendous love for you as His beloved child?


Lord God, thank You for sending Your Son to sacrifice in our place. Thank You for giving us a means of approaching You at all. Thank You that we may enter into Your Kingdom with a childlike faith. Thank You for meeting us in our weakness and vulnerability and bringing reassurance of Your love and faithfulness. We love You and worship You today. In Jesus's Name, amen.


"Unashamed Love": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiNiUlV9E9Y



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