Go ask Daddy...
By Erik Farstad
December 2, 1997
"...unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:3
Have you noticed a reoccurring theme in the bible? Childlikeness. Children trust and have faith unlike any other people on this earth. Children acknowledge that they need help, that they need to trust in someone else for guidance. That is exactly where our Father in Heaven wants us.
To enter the kingdom, we must have a unwavering faith in Christ’s life and His finished work on the cross. Doesn’t that take a childlike heart? It sure does. For us to step down from our positions of self, and allow another to take our place as "controller," exemplifies our trust and faith in Him. If you are a grown adult, do you still ask your mother or father to go out at night? To play with the neighbor kid? No, you have reached an age of responsibility! Yet I beg to differ if age equates to responsibility.
Perhaps it’s time to visit that kid inside, to ask your Heavenly father to go out and play. Whether HE thinks your actions are appropriate. Just because the world, your neighbors or even your friends say you should do what you please, I suggest you ask Daddy!
There is a big difference from being childlike and childish! The childish person doesn’t want anyone telling them what to do...ME...ME...ME! The childlike person is humble and sincere in action and deeds. Aren’t children precious when you see them playing or looking adorably cute! Sure they are. Our Father sees us as his precious children also. But just as a child starts of innocent and sincere, as they grow they fight "self." For it is the sin of self that we are born with. That is why it is so important to remain as a child, daily seeking your Father in all situations. The more you are with the Father, the less "self" will rear its ugly head.
How does the world see you? Do they see something different? Do they see a Child-of-God or a childish person? Is the child in you loving and giving to those "kid’s" around you? Remember playing in a sand box? You shared, and you fought, but you were with all your fellow "kids." Times haven’t changed, the sand box has just gotten bigger! How do you play now?
Let this be your prayer today:
Dear Lord, thank you for loving me enough to send your one and only son, your child, to take my place on the cross. Burn in my heart the faith and trust of a child to look to you for all things, in all situations. May your Spirit lead me to those around me to be a witness, to share the love of Christ. I come to you on my knees praising you Father, for you are the only one to be praised! Let my life, show my love for you today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
A sand castle can be a lonely place if you don’t have someone to share it with!
In Him, "E"