I find it intriguing that Jesus used children as the example of what we should be. These days I spend a lot of my time with littles, and it is amazing the things I learn from them.

Have you ever walked down the stairs with a little kid? They reach for your hand without hesitation. They know that they cannot tackle those stairs alone.

I’m a stubborn child these days, stumbling and falling down the stairs trying to do it on my own. I want to convince the world that I am old enough, capable enough, and strong enough to do it by myself. I want to run ahead, to see what life holds “down the stairs.”

I babysat another little girl who just laughs, all the time. I read her a book about snow, she cracks up. When we pick out a dress for her, she just laughs out of JOY. She finds joy in the little things. Seeing life from the perspective of a child changes everything. Being with her made me wonder how many things I walk by everyday and completely ignore. What little joys are all around me that I miss altogether?

Then there are the little babies who cry if they are in anyone’s arms but their mothers. Kids know their parents, even from the youngest age. There is a comfort and safety that is recognizable. So it should be with Me, the Lord tells us. I want to be someone who knows His voice and recognizes His presence, feeling unsafe without Him there.

And then there are the littles who ask each week, “When can we have a snack?!” They are so impatient. They want their treat when they want it, and have a hard time understanding why they should wait. Each week, I have to say, Wait a little longer. If they have it too soon, they will be hungry again before their moms come. If we eat too much, their appetite will be ruined for lunch.

So it is with My plans, says the Lord. God gives us answers when we are actually ready for them. Waiting is an important practice in the Kingdom of God. These kids taught me so much about how we interact with the Lord, and the way He is teaching us to wait, be joyful, and know Him.