Today we will talk about Bible verses about being like a child. Many Christians might wonder what Jesus meant when He said we should have a childlike heart. To be like a child is to embrace purity, faith, and trust in God. As we explore these verses together, let’s open our hearts and minds to understand how we can learn from the simple yet profound ways children engage with life and faith. Children often possess an innocent perspective, exhibiting a deep sense of trust and openness that we can all strive to embody in our own lives. So, be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word.
Bible Verses About Being Like a Child
Trust and Faith
In our journey of faith, the importance of trust cannot be overstated. Trusting God like a child shows our understanding of His love for us. Just as children unconditionally believe in their parents, we too can lean on God’s promises, knowing He will guide and protect us. When we trust in Him wholeheartedly, we are reminded that He has our best interests at heart. Embracing childlike trust means letting go of our worries and relying on God’s wisdom. Let’s cultivate a heart that welcomes faith as we explore what being like a child means in the context of our relationship with God.
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
Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
Innocence and Purity
When we think about the qualities of being like a child, innocence and purity come to mind. Children often see the world through an untainted lens. Their hearts are filled with joy and genuine love. This reminds us that as we grow in our faith, we should seek to preserve our spiritual innocence by staying away from the distractions and corrupting influences of the world. Being innocent like a child allows us to approach God with an open heart and sincere intentions. Let’s remember how important it is to maintain that childlike purity even as we navigate life’s complexities.
Matthew 5:8
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” – Matthew 5:8
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
Psalms 51:10
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” – Psalms 51:10
Matthew 19:14
“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'” – Matthew 19:14
James 1:27
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” – James 1:27
Curiosity and Wonder
As children, we possess a natural sense of curiosity and wonder about the world around us. This curiosity drives us to ask questions and seek understanding. When it comes to our faith, we should never lose that inquisitive spirit. God encourages us to explore our beliefs and understand His creation. By being curious like a child, we engage more deeply with the mysteries of God’s love and grace. This journey of discovery is not just about gaining knowledge; it’s about growing in relationship with our Creator. Let’s allow this childlike curiosity to fuel our spiritual growth.
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
Luke 11:9
“So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Luke 11:9
Psalms 119:18
“Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.” – Psalms 119:18
Proverbs 18:15
“The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” – Proverbs 18:15
Acts 17:11
“Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” – Acts 17:11
Unconditional Love
Children are known for their ability to show unconditional love without reservation. They love freely and openly, without requiring anything in return. As we strive to be like a child in our faith, we must learn to extend that same kind of love to others. Jesus teaches us to love our neighbors and even our enemies, reminding us that love is a powerful force in building relationships. By showcasing this unconditional love, we reflect God’s love toward us, creating bonds of unity and understanding in our community. Let’s be a beacon of love for others, as we embrace our childlike hearts.
John 15:12
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” – John 15:12
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14
Romans 13:10
“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” – Romans 13:10
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
Forgiveness
Children often forgive easily and quickly, without holding on to grudges. As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate this spirit of forgiveness. Our relationships can thrive, just like a child’s heart, when we let go of past hurts. Jesus emphasizes the importance of forgiveness throughout His teachings, reminding us that we are recipients of His grace and should extend that grace to others. Forgiveness creates a beautiful cycle of healing and growth within communities. Let’s endeavor to practice this childlike forgiveness in our lives so that we can free ourselves from bitterness and embrace peace.
Matthew 6:14
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14
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
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
Matthew 18:21-22
“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times!'” – Matthew 18:21-22
Celebration of Life
Children have an innate ability to find joy in the simplest things. They celebrate life with a happiness that is infectious. In our faith journey, we should adopt this enthusiasm and joyfulness too! God calls us to celebrate the beauty of life and share joy with others. Happiness can thrive in our hearts when we embrace a carefree, childlike attitude. This perspective helps us to enjoy the present moment and appreciate the blessings around us. Let’s keep our hearts open to celebrate life and spread joy wherever we go.
Ecclesiastes 3:13
“That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.” – Ecclesiastes 3:13
Psalms 118:24
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalms 118:24
Philippians 4:4
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4
Nehemiah 8:10
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Our Identity as Children of God
Understanding our identity as children of God is crucial in our faith journey. Just as an earthly child looks up to their parents, we look to God, knowing we are loved unconditionally. This relationship brings comfort and security, allowing us to approach Him with boldness. In Ephesians, we are reminded that we are chosen and adopted into God’s family. Embracing our identity as His children helps us navigate life with confidence and purpose. Let’s embrace this beautiful truth and live with the awareness of our identity as His beloved children.
John 1:12
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” – John 1:12
Ephesians 1:5
“He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.” – Ephesians 1:5
1 John 3:1
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” – 1 John 3:1
Galatians 3:26
“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.” – Galatians 3:26
Psalms 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalms 139:14
Humility
Humility is a key characteristic of children. They do not boast or seek accolades; instead, they are content in who they are. In our walk with God, humility reminds us that none of us is greater than the other in His eyes. Jesus teaches about the importance of being humble, reminding us that greatness in His kingdom is not measured by achievements but by our willingness to serve faithfully. By embodying a humble heart, we can create an environment that welcomes others, encouraging them to learn and grow with us. Let’s actively pursue humility as we strive to live like children in our faith journey.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
Matthew 23:12
“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” – Matthew 23:12
Proverbs 22:4
“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.” – Proverbs 22:4
Luke 9:48
“Then he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.'” – Luke 9:48
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10
Learning from Trials
Children often exhibit resilience when faced with challenges. They learn and grow from their experiences, often bouncing back with a renewed spirit. In our own lives, we face trials and tribulations that can strengthen our faith. Instead of allowing difficulties to break our spirit, we must strive to view them through the lens of hope and growth. God uses these moments to teach us valuable lessons that can deepen our relationship with Him. Let’s approach adversity with the curiosity of children, asking what we can learn and how we can grow from every experience.
James 1:2-3
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:2-3
Romans 5:3-4
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” – Romans 5:3-4
Psalms 30:5
“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” – Psalms 30:5
2 Corinthians 4:17
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” – 2 Corinthians 4:17
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these Bible verses about being like a child, we should strive to embrace the numerous qualities that children naturally exhibit. Trust, innocence, curiosity, unconditional love, forgiveness, joy, humility, and resilience are just a few aspects that remind us of how we can walk faithfully with God. By cultivating these traits in our own lives, we can grow spiritually and foster deeper relationships with those around us.
Being like a child is not a call to immaturity but an encouragement to adopt a fresh, hopeful perspective in our faith journey. Each verse we explore provides insights into how we can embody the spirit of a child while confidently living out our identity as children of God. Let us encourage one another in our quest to reveal the beauty of a childlike heart, reflecting His grace and love in every aspect of our lives.
May God bless us as we lean into these truths, helping us to live joyfully and faithfully as we strive to honor Him in all that we do.
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