Let’s read two Bible verses together.

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 (NIV)

nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.” – Luke 17:21 (NKJV)

What could these two verses mean?

Become like little children…

• Live as a child in a Father-Son relationship.
• Abba, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit will be your teachers.
• You are the student.
• Live dependent, innocent and trusting.
• Have an open mind.
• Be a sponge of learning.
• Ask many questions.
• Always remembering, the doorway and the mindset of the kingdom of Heaven is through an innocent childlike heart.

The kingdom of God is within you…*

• The Kingdom of Heaven enters only when invited into a receptive heart.
• God’s Spirit desires to partner with your childlike spirit.
• If invited the Kingdom of God will set up a local branch office in your heart.

Remember

The above verses represent one offer. Your childlike innocent heart has another offer. There is a
dark side kingdom at work. That evil kingdom also wants to live in your heart. It offers immediate pleasure including being self absorbed and endless consumption.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I pick you and your teachings. That request is coming from my childlike heart. I need a leader, an example, and support. I pick team Abba, Jesus, and Holy Spirit. Amen.

Editor’s Note

*The verses represented here are interpreted in the context of growing in Christ, teachability, and how they apply to our emotional growth mission.