Become Like Children: The Path to the Kingdom

Matthew 18:3 – “Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.”

Have you ever watched a child explore the world? Wide-eyed with wonder, full of trust, quick to forgive, and eager to learn—they carry a purity that we often lose as we grow older. In Matthew 18:3, Jesus speaks a powerful truth that flips our adult expectations upside down: “Unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.”

At first glance, this verse might seem simple, even poetic. But Jesus wasn’t just offering a sweet sentiment—He was giving us a spiritual key.

What Does It Mean to “Become Like Children”?

Children are humble. They don’t walk around with pride in their accomplishments. They know they need help, and they’re not afraid to ask for it. Jesus is calling us to let go of the need to have it all together, to stop relying solely on our own strength, and to approach Him with open hands and honest hearts.

Children trust easily. They believe in what they cannot see. Jesus invites us to return to that kind of faith—a faith that believes in His promises, even when life is uncertain or painful.

Children are quick to forgive. They don’t hold onto grudges or rehearse the wrongs done to them. In a world that teaches us to protect ourselves by building walls, Jesus tells us to forgive freely and love deeply.

Why This Matters

The kingdom of heaven isn’t earned through status, knowledge, or good deeds. It’s received through surrender—by becoming small in our own eyes so that God can be big in our hearts. When we choose humility over pride, trust over fear, and forgiveness over bitterness, we begin to experience heaven on earth and prepare ourselves for eternity with God.

A Personal Invitation

Take a moment today to reflect. Are there places in your life where you’ve grown hardened, skeptical, or self-reliant? Ask the Lord to soften your heart. Invite Him to renew your childlike faith, to help you trust Him again, and to lead you back to a place of wonder and dependence on Him.

The kingdom of heaven isn’t far away—it’s found when we humble ourselves, lift our eyes to Jesus, and come to Him like little children.

Lord, help us to return to the simplicity of childlike faith. Strip away our pride, our fears, and our need to control. Teach us to trust You, to follow You, and to love like You. Amen.