What Adults Can Learn from A Child’s Simple Faith

…verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.   Matthew 18:3-4

God reminds us that one of the requirements for entering the gates of Heaven is to approach them from the viewpoint and attitude of a little child.  In my mind, that translates to one word-simplicity.  Simply believing without self-conscientious mind games.  Simply loving without applying conditions.  Simply living each day to the fullest while embracing the God-given “specialties” that make you, uniquely you.

Today as I approached a mother and her son walking their dogs, I was keenly reminded of the precious part simplicity plays in our interactions with God.  As is usual for me, I took the opportunity to share God’s goodness by asking if they had any prayer requests.  The young boy instantly and simply stated, “Pray that this dog doesn’t poop in the house anymore and that our new one learns faster.”  He didn’t blink an eye as he continued, “And pray that my grandma lives to be 102.” He paused slightly with tilted head and continued, “That might be kinda hard though.”

My first thoughts were, “Oh, sweet child, God loves the challenge of a simple, God-sized request.” (Matthew 9:29)  After his requests, the boy’s mother informed me that his grandma’s 99th birthday celebration was the next day.

This young boy had desires, desires that he knew a move of God could answer.  His faith didn’t falter from the magnitude of his requests, although he did seem to think that living to 102 was a bit of a stretch.  Terminology was also not a problem.  I had to smile.  He tossed it out there for the Lord’s consideration-plain and simple.  (Hebrews 11:6)

So, I ask.  What about you and me?  Can we simply toss out our requests to the Creator of the Universe giving no thought to all the whys and wherefores? Or, do we begin evaluating the political correctness of our prayers?  Do we categorize them into easy for God, harder, and ultimately, too hard for God?  Do we do our own analyzing to decide whether a request is worthy enough or God’s will?  A child does not concern himself with God’s will or his or her worthiness.  Children leave that up to God, as well they should, and so should we.

My encouraging word to you (and me) is to simply ask, then believe God will answer our request bringing the very best possible outcome.  He knows us.  He knows His business and ours.  He is able.  Don’t tie God’s hands with the rope of unbelief–simple faith is all it takes. (Matthew 13:58)

Will you take the challenge to use child-like faith in requesting His move on your behalf?   What God-sized request do you have for our Heavenly Father that may seem, to you, too hard or not worthy?