Today we will talk about bible verses about being childlike. Many Christians do not know what this means. To be childlike is to approach God with innocence, trust, and openness, much like a child would. Jesus calls us to embrace this childlike faith, reminding us of the importance of humility, wonder, and dependence on Him. As we read through these verses, let’s reflect on how we can embody the qualities of a child in our spiritual journey, inviting pure joy and faithfulness into our relationship with God. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s Word.
Bible Verses About Being Childlike
The Importance of Childlike Faith
In our spiritual journey, we are encouraged to cultivate a faith that resembles that of a child. This means leaning into God with an open heart and trusting Him without the distractions of doubt. When we approach God in this way, we often experience a deeper connection to His love and grace. Childlike faith allows us to embrace the simplicity of His promises, creating a pathway for joy and discovery in our lives. It challenges us to let go of preconceived notions and to embrace the wonder of God’s infinite wisdom and plans.
Matthew 18:3
“And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.’” – Matthew 18:3
Mark 10:15
“Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” – Mark 10:15
Luke 18:17
“Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” – Luke 18:17
Matthew 11:25
“At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.'” – Matthew 11:25
1 Peter 2:2
“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.” – 1 Peter 2:2
The Joy of Innocence
When we embrace our childlike nature, we naturally find joy in the simple things. Just like children see magic in rainbows or feel happiness in playing outside, we too can experience the beauty around us in our spiritual walk. This joy of innocence encourages us to appreciate God’s creation and to find delight in His blessings, helping us to cultivate a heart that is grateful and alive in Christ. With childlike joy, we can share our light with the world, reflecting God’s love in all we do.
Psalms 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” – Psalms 127:3
Proverbs 17:6
“Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.” – Proverbs 17:6
Isaiah 11:6
“The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them.” – Isaiah 11:6
Psalms 146:9
“The Lord watches over the foreigner and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the wicked.” – Psalms 146:9
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
Building Trust in God
Children are known for their unwavering trust in their parents, believing that they will provide for them and keep them safe. Similarly, we are invited to put our full trust in God, knowing that He has our best interests at heart. Building this trust requires us to release our worries and to openly communicate with Him, just as a child would go to their parent with questions and concerns. By nurturing our trust in God, we can weather life’s storms and have confidence that He is for us, not against us.
Psalms 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” – Psalms 37:5
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Isaiah 26:4
“Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.” – Isaiah 26:4
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Embracing Humility
Being childlike also means embracing humility. Children often do not carry the burden of pride or the need to appear perfect. They are genuine, honest, and unapologetically themselves. In our faith, we too are called to let go of our pride and to approach God with humility. By doing this, we open ourselves up to a more profound relationship with Him—acknowledging that we need Him in every aspect of our lives. Humility opens the door for us to learn, grow, and be shaped into who God intended us to be.
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10
Psalms 25:9
“He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.” – Psalms 25:9
Matthew 23:12
“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” – Matthew 23:12
Luke 14:11
“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” – Luke 14:11
Proverbs 22:4
“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.” – Proverbs 22:4
The Power of Forgiveness
Children have an incredible ability to forgive quickly and to move forward without holding onto past grievances. This childlike quality is something we should strive to embody in our relationships and interactions. Forgiveness is not always easy, but it frees our hearts and allows us to live fully in God’s grace. By forgiving others just as we have been forgiven, we open up a pathway to deeper relationships filled with love, kindness, and understanding—mirroring the love that Jesus has for each of us.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Matthew 6:14-15
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” – Matthew 6:14-15
Luke 6:37
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” – Luke 6:37
Mark 11:25
“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 11:25
Living in Wonder
Part of being childlike is living with wonder and amazement about the world around us. Children often find joy in the simplest things—a butterfly, a sunset, or a smile. This attitude invites us to see the beauty in God’s creation and reminds us to marvel at His handiwork. Living with wonder can deepen our appreciation for everyday moments and encourage us to celebrate life, acknowledge God’s presence, and embrace the extraordinary aspects of our journey, no matter how small they may seem.
Job 37:14
“Listen to this, Job; stop and consider God’s wonders.” – Job 37:14
Psalms 148:3
“Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you shining stars.” – Psalms 148:3
Romans 1:20
“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” – Romans 1:20
Psalms 104:24-25
“How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.” – Psalms 104:24-25
Ecclesiastes 3:11
“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” – Ecclesiastes 3:11
The Blessing of Community
Children thrive in community, surrounded by family and friends who care for them. They know that they are loved and supported, instilling in them a confidence that allows them to explore the world. In our adult lives, we also need the blessing of community to thrive in our faith. When we engage with fellow believers, sharing our experiences and encouraging one another, we build a strong foundation for our spiritual journey. Together, we can reflect the childlike qualities of love, support, and kindness, as we navigate the complexities of life.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Acts 2:44-47
“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” – Acts 2:44-47
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Following God’s Guidance
Just as children look to their parents for guidance and direction, we too need to seek God’s leading in our lives. Being childlike means trusting Him to take us down the right paths and to provide wisdom in our decisions. We can demonstrate our trust by seeking His Word, praying, and being open to His voice. As we navigate our journey of faith, we can allow our childlike nature to keep us receptive to God’s guidance, turning to Him as our ultimate source of truth and direction.
Psalms 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalms 119:105
Proverbs 16:9
“In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
Isaiah 30:21
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.'” – Isaiah 30:21
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Matthew 7:7
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
Living with a Purpose
Every child has a unique purpose, and God has created each of us with a divine calling. As we embrace our childlike nature, we also discover our God-given purpose through joy and wonder. We are encouraged to seek out what God has intended for us, loving and serving those around us with the gifts He has bestowed upon us. Living with a sense of purpose helps us to shine brightly in our communities and to create positive change in the world, just as children often inspire us with their genuine and ambitious spirits.
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
Jeremiah 1:5
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” – Jeremiah 1:5
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.” – Colossians 3:23-24
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the bible verses about being childlike, we are reminded of the beauty and simplicity of faith through the lens of a child’s heart. Embracing a childlike spirit means trusting God wholeheartedly, living in joy, and finding wonder in the world around us. It calls us to be humble, forgiving, and reliant on our heavenly Father for guidance. Together, we can strive to be more childlike in our trust, love, and community with one another.
May we carry these lessons with us and allow the qualities of innocence and joy to shape our lives. As we embrace being childlike, we invite greater blessings, deeper relationships, and a rich understanding of God’s love in our journey of faith. Let’s take these messages to heart and share them with others, reflecting His light as we walk this path together.
Ultimately, being childlike isn’t about being immature but about cultivating a spirit of wonder, trust, and humility—a beautiful reminder of how we should relate to God and each other. Let’s join together in pursuing this childlike faith on our journey!
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4