A Deepening and More Mature Understanding
The Bible does not encourage us to have a child-like faith. Rather Jesus suggests that faith is to be seen as a gift and we are to receive that gift as a child might. That suggests gratitude, openness, humility, delight, and unrestrained joy.
Those who suggest that children simply accept everything, without question, probably don’t know children very well! One of my greatest fears is spending time with a Kindergarten or Year One class – because their questions are unending and seemingly unrelated, and I don’t know how to handle that!
So, the Bible’s call to accept faith like a child, certainly does not mean we are to have a childish and immature faith.[1]
I have seen immature belief causing a faith shipwreck on many occasions. One of the common scenarios is that we teach our children that God loves them. The experience of a child is that one who loves, does not allow us to be harmed or to suffer.
By the time a child reaches the age of 10 or 11, the likelihood of family sickness or sadness occurs. Maybe a grandparent is diagnosed with a painful cancer and the child struggles with how this can fit the perspective of a loving God who cares.
Often these difficult situations do not seem to allow space for us to process these occurrences with our children. They are left in their immature thinking which is deeply unsatisfying to them. They need help to see God’s plan, grace, and mercy in all aspects of life.
Blessings
Brian
[1] 1 Corinthians 14:20; Hebrews 15:12-13; Hebrews 6:1-3