Let Me Be Great
How to Become As Little Children
Scripture Reading: Matthew 18:1–6
“Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 18:3).
I. Practice Humility
“Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child …” (Matt. 18:4).
A. Little children realize they are small and must look up to grown-ups. They are aware of their lack of strength and wisdom. They ask for help and guidance.
B. God wants us to be aware of our lack of strength and of our inability to understand everything. He wants us to ask Him for assistance and wisdom (James 1:5).
II. Practice Trust
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart” (Prov. 3:5).
A. Trust is a wonderful characteristic of little children. They trust their parents implicitly to meet their needs.
B. Many people are trusting in materialistic pursuits and depending on their own abilities.
C. God wants His children to trust Him completely to meet their needs (Phil. 4:19).
III. Practice Light-heartedness
“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
A. It is normal for little children to be light-hearted and carefree. There are exceptions, such as those coming from broken homes, etc.
B. God wants His children to be light-hearted and carefree, too. He is able to bear their burdens (1 Peter 5:7).
IV. Practice Persistence
“Let us hold fast the profession of our faith” (Heb. 10:23).
A. A little child falls many times but he never gives up until he learns to walk.
B. Christians make blunders and mistakes, but they should keep trying and refuse to give up.
V. Practice Anticipation
“I press toward the mark for the prize …” (Phil. 3:14).
A. Children continually look ahead with anticipation.
B. Discouragement is short-lived with children. They look to the future with hope.
C. Christians should look ahead with anticipation, too. They should look for and expect the best to come (John 14:1–3).