“When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became an adult, I put an end to childish ways.” (1 Corinthians 13:11)

     In the context of the “love” chapter, 1 Corinthians 13, Paul addresses how he no longer has childish ways.  From the time of birth, we tend to be self-seeking, wanting to be fed, wanting attention, etc.  Don’t get me wrong, these are basic needs, and every child needs and deserves them.  But now, as an adult and one who is born again of Christ, we can see the needs of others and can oftentimes do something about it.

     Love has a way of helping us to see outside of ourselves.  This gives us a limitless capacity to be more like Jesus.  Our mission field is huge, with a world in need of the kind of love that God has put within us.

     I can’t conclude this without saying that there are some things about the way children think which are very positive.  Jesus wants us to have a childlike faith. “Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” (Mark 10:15)

Prayer: Dear Lord, we love you because you first loved us.  Help us to love others and to do all that we can to meet their needs, and help all of us to have a childlike faith.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.