THE POWER OF CHILD-LIKE FAITH IN GOD By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 18:3 - "And He said: 'Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.'"
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Introduction
Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God. However, not just any faith is required—God desires child-like faith in His people. This is the kind of faith that trusts without questioning, follows without hesitation, and rests in the assurance that God is in full control. The Lord calls His people to live in absolute dependence on Him, just as children rely entirely on their parents.
In a world filled with uncertainty, fear, and deception, it is easy to fall into the trap of relying on human strength, reasoning, and worldly systems. However, God's desire is that His children walk by faith and not by sight. He promises to open doors that no one can shut and make a way even in the most difficult circumstances.
This teaching explores the essence of child-like faith, its significance, and how believers can cultivate it in their daily walk with God.
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God Calls Us to Trust Him Completely
Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."
God calls His people to trust Him with their whole hearts, not just in certain areas of life. Many struggle because they try to take control of their own destinies, attempting to write the story of their lives. However, the Lord makes it clear that the writing of our lives’ chapters belongs to Him alone. He is the author and finisher of our faith, and His plans are always for our good.
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Fear and Anxiety Are Not From God
2 Timothy 1:7 - "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
Many believers allow fear to grip their hearts due to the troubles and chaos of the world. However, God’s Word reminds us that fear does not come from Him. When we trust in the Lord with child-like faith, we refuse to be overwhelmed by anxiety. Instead, we place our confidence in His divine protection, provision, and purpose for our lives.
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The Danger of Trusting in the Arm of Flesh
Jeremiah 17:5 - "This is what the Lord says: 'Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord.'"
God warns against placing our hope in human systems, wisdom, or strength. Many have been led astray because they trusted in the ways of the world rather than relying on God’s unfailing promises. The arm of flesh will always fail, but those who trust in the Lord will never be put to shame.
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Jesus Invites Us to Take His Yoke
Matthew 11:28-30 - "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
A child-like faith means resting in Jesus and not carrying unnecessary burdens. Jesus has already made a way for His people to walk in peace, provision, and purpose. When we abide in Him, we experience the fullness of His care and love.
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The World’s Ways Are Deceptive
Isaiah 5:20 - "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter."
The world today is filled with deception, leading many away from God’s truth. Demonic influences in high places manipulate people into rejecting God’s ways. However, the Lord calls His people to remain steadfast and discerning, refusing to be influenced by the world’s corrupt standards.
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Summary
God desires His people to walk in child-like faith, fully dependent on Him. Fear, anxiety, and trust in human wisdom lead to destruction, but faith in God brings peace and victory. Jesus provides rest to those who trust Him, and His ways are higher than the ways of the world.
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Conclusion
As believers, we must let go of self-reliance and embrace God’s plan for our lives. The Lord has a purpose for each of us, and when we trust Him like children trust their parents, we experience divine favor and guidance. In a world filled with confusion, we must hold firmly to the truth of God’s Word and reject the lies of the enemy.
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The Call to Action
Examine your heart and ask yourself: Are you fully trusting in God, or are you relying on your own understanding? Surrender your fears, anxieties, and plans to Him today. Choose to walk in child-like faith and experience the peace and provision that come from complete dependence on God.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Isaiah 26:3 - "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You."
Remain steadfast in faith, knowing that God is in control of your life. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Trust in His divine plan and walk boldly through the doors He opens for you.
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Prayer of Salvation
If you have not yet given your life to Jesus, now is the time. Pray this prayer with sincerity:
Heavenly Father, I come to You in the name of Jesus. I confess that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died for my sins, and that He rose again. I accept Him as my Lord and Savior. Come into my life, guide me, and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. I surrender all to You and choose to walk in Your ways. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus' name, Amen.
If you have prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of God! Grow in faith by reading the Word, praying daily, and fellowshipping with other believers. God bless you!
