Becoming Like a ChildNäide

Treating ‘little ones’ well

“Whoever receives one such child in My name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.” (Matthew 18:5-6)

These verses make a smooth transition from literal children to figurative ‘little ones.' Those who believe in Jesus as a child are described by Him as small and insignificant in the eyes of the world. But not in His eyes! It doesn't matter how small someone is, in any respect. Whether someone is still very young, or is considered socially unimportant by others, or thinks little of himself, to God we are all equally important. The Lord Jesus even says that if we receive a child in His Name, we will be rewarded as if we received God Himself. When we offer a thirsty person something to drink or give shelter to a stranger, we are essentially doing so for Jesus Himself (Matthew 25:40). For each of His children is precious and valuable. This is why Jesus also issues a warning: if we treat one of His ‘little ones’ badly or neglect them, we will be severely judged.

If we ourselves have become humble like a child, we will no longer exalt ourselves above others. If we are filled with love for God, we will also love His children and treat them well.

Can you see past the distinction between ‘important’ and ‘little’ people and see them all as precious in God's eyes?