Now, O Lord my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. (1 Kgs 3:7, emphasis added)
This verse in 1 Kings reflects the wisdom of Solomon—who considered himself as a little child in comparison to the wisdom and the eternal knowledge of God.
Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it. (Mk 10:15)
“Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Mt 18:3-4)
What do you think are the characteristics of a little child that Jesus is referring to in these passages? Here are some ideas to consider. Very young children were, in ancient, biblical times:
- Humble and not envious of each other;
- Did not think about advancing themselves to a place of power;
- Didn’t have status or rights; and
- Were completely dependent upon the good will of others to care for them.
Jesus humbles Himself in identifying with the little child. Jesus came to meet the needs of all those who are marginal, needy, and powerless. He came to save the lost—and there are many ways to be “lost.”
Jesus says that the way that WE should respond to such marginal, needy people is the same way that we respond to HIM. (see Mt 18:5) If we love Jesus, we should show love and concern for the lost. Jesus wants to remind us of the spiritual nature of His kingdom, and desires that we be heavenly-minded.
The Bible says that we are strangers and pilgrims upon the earth (Heb 11:13) because our King is a heavenly King, and our country is with our heavenly King.
As we submit our lives to the guidance and leading of the Holy Spirit, we shall suddenly move from earthly life into eternity—into humility and total dependence upon God. (1 Cor 15:51-52)
decidingvoteblog 