Somewhere along the way, many of us decided faith should have every answer. We want the plan, the proof, and the full picture before we step forward. Then we read what Jesus said about children, and it changes how we see everything.
What Does Childlike Faith Mean?
Childlike faith is simple, trusting faith. It’s coming to Jesus the way a child comes to a parent: with an open heart, real dependence, and no pretending.
It does not mean being naive or avoiding hard questions. Children ask plenty of those. It means trusting the One you’re asking.
What Does Matthew 19:14 Say?
In Matthew 19:14, people bring children to Jesus, and the disciples try to send them away. Jesus tells them to let the children come to Him and not stop them, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.
The disciples saw interruptions. Jesus saw people He wanted close. The verse shows that no one is too small, too simple, or too unimportant to come to Him.
What Else Did Jesus Say About Becoming Like a Child?
Two related passages go further:
- Matthew 18:3: Jesus says that unless we change and become like children, we won’t enter the kingdom of heaven.
- Mark 10:15: Jesus says that whoever doesn’t receive the kingdom of God like a child won’t enter it.
Together they show that childlike faith isn’t a phase to outgrow. Jesus treats it as the way in.
What Childlike Faith Looks Like
Here are traits Scripture points to, and that you can practice:
- Trust. A child doesn’t need to see the whole map to follow a parent they trust.
- Humility. Children know they can’t do everything alone, and they ask for help.
- Openness. They receive gifts without trying to earn them. Grace works the same way.
- Honesty. They say what’s on their mind, and you can pray the same way.
- Wonder. They are amazed easily. Faith can be too.
How to Grow in Childlike Faith
- Pray plainly. You don’t need polished words. Talk to God as you would to someone who loves you.
- Stop demanding every answer. Bring your questions, and let some stay open for now.
- Receive grace without bargaining. Practice accepting forgiveness without trying to earn it back.
- Slow down and notice. Look for evidence of God’s care in ordinary days.
- Read slowly. Start with the Gospels and watch how Jesus treats people who come to Him humbly.
Wear the Reminder
Our Child Like Faith Unisex Christian T-Shirt is inspired by Matthew 19:14. It’s a simple reminder to come to Jesus with trust and an open heart, and it’s available in eight colors for $18.50. Pair it with a hoodie from our Christian hoodies and sweatshirts collection, and orders over $75 ship free.
Want to go deeper into who you are in Christ? Try our 21 day identity in Christ devotional, or read our posts on Daughter of God and Son of God Bible verses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is childlike faith?
It’s trusting, humble, open faith, like a child’s trust in a loving parent. It isn’t blind or naive, and it leaves room for questions.
What does Matthew 19:14 mean?
Jesus welcomes children and says the kingdom of heaven belongs to people like them. It shows that no one is too small to come to Him, and that humble trust is the way in.
Is childlike faith the same as childish faith?
No. Childish faith refuses to grow. Childlike faith keeps the trust and humility of a child while maturing in understanding.
Can adults have childlike faith?
Yes. Jesus told adults to become like children, which means returning to trust and dependence.
Come as You Are
You don’t need every answer to come to Jesus. You just need to come.
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