When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them. For the kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children…Mark 10:14
Jesus replied, “‘ You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'” Matthew 22:37-39
Love
A little child possesses a loving and compassionate heart; they are deeply touched by the pain and hurt of others. It is typical for them to reach out and provide comfort to others who display sadness and sorrow. How do our hearts compare to that of a little child’s heart? Agape love is inclusive to all individuals without regard to socioeconomic status, nationality, or background. We cannot let the actions of others or trending belief systems destroy what God has given to us–agape love allows us to extend mercy in the form of forgiveness toward our fellow brothers and sisters.
Forgiveness
Childhood spats are usually little disagreements that work themselves out because children are loyal and readily forgive. They cherish their friendships and typically do not hold onto grudges unless adult interference escalates the situation. God commands us to: Make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Colossians 3:13 NLT. To forgive and not forget is not biblically supported; therefore, we must not allow ourselves to possess this unholy mindset regarding others who have offended us.
Joyful Excitement
As children hear and focus on the promises made to them, they are filled with bubbly excitement; their smiles and laughter are often combined with physically jumping up and down, which is priceless. The Bible is filled with God’s precious promises, which means we should possess the Joy of the Lord every day. For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days, when you pray, I will listen. Jeremiah 29:11, 12. God desires that we always possess His joy: …Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10 last part.
When we love God, it will be our greatest desire to be like him. Go ahead, pray, and ask God for a complete transformation; it is only then that we can possess the characteristics that God requires for us to enter into His Kingdom.
Prayer for today: Dear God, We thank you for the ability to love, to laugh, and enjoy the beautiful life that you have given to us. We desire to become like little children and possess the character traits that are pleasing to you. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Worthy name of Jesus. Amen.