	Bob Hostetler > Devotions

Like a Child

by Bob Hostetler

Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3).

A gifted Christian author and speaker tells the story of his family's tense wait to enter Israel from Jordan some years ago. The process promised to be a day-long affair at a sweltering checkpoint, until his small daughter wandered to one of the arm guards, looked innocently up at the soldier, and asked, "Do you have a piece of gum?"

Suddenly the atmosphere of caution and tension evaporated. The Israelis smiled, and waved the family through with minimal delay.

Jesus' disciples were arguing about who would be greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus quashed their ambition by warning them that anyone who does not humble himself or herself as a little child, who is commonly overlooked and disregarded, will not enter the kingdom of heaven.

Jesus' words may seem harsh. But repentance--a prerequisite to salvation--requires humility. Confession of sins requires humility. Submission to God's will requires humility. Dependence on God requires humility. Consecration requires humility. Effective service requires humility.

Such are the childlike requirements for entry into the kingdom of heaven.

Prayer: Lord, help me to humble myself as a little child that you might help me to grow up in my most holy faith.

More devotions by Bob Hostetler...