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Thoughts for a Woman's Heart |
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encouragement in things that matter |
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The Heart of a Child
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For most of us, childhood was a place of fantasy, simplicity, and freedom. The security of a loving home nurtured qualities like trust, adaptability, and sensitivity. The child grew in knowledge. She gained understanding, and she gained proficiency. As a child, I knew I could fly – not very high – usually only about six feet off the ground – but it was the secret I tucked in bed with me every night. The child of childhood that we delight in as moms and grandmoms, is one of warmth, butterfly kisses, and bear hugs. Jesus too delighted in the little ones that others saw as interruptions. He took them in His arms and blessed them. But it was His commendation of childlike faith that rebuked the adults who watched
My grandniece, Arianna, demonstrates a childlikeness worthy of imitation in the delight she has when I put a Bible story video on for her to watch. She literally dances and bounces around the living room, clapping her hands, and squealing, "Jesus! Jesus!" Mealtimes with my grandkids has both of them praying more or less intently, but the "Amen!" is an arm-raising, hallelujah-kind-of-shout. It has proven contagious with other preschoolers. A child’s curiosity asks not only about the moon that hides and the rain that wets his face, but also persistently seeks understanding of biblical truth. Little Evan asks his best questions in the car, just like his Daddy once did.
Our children live from total dependence on mom and dad to independence. We see their dependence in the nursing infant, the clinging toddler, the kindergartner who bravely holds back the tears all day, and uncontrollably wants the security of mom’s shoulder in the car. The fourth grader may get perks in the classroom, and on the ballfield, but he still is hungry for the expressed approval of mom and dad. Even the teenager can appreciate the "no" of a parent that strengthens her own resistance to negative peer pressure. Physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually, the growth process is dependent on the parent. Simplicity and spontaneity. The nature of a child that gives, that believes, that loves. All of these childlike qualities have spiritual implications as we walk as children with our heavenly Father. How are you doing in being childlike?
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— Bev |
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