This statement in Matthew 18 ends the same in every translation across the board.
This is the Amplified version:
Matthew 18:1-4…At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child and set him before them, and said, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless you repent (that is, change your inner self…your old way of thinking, live changed lives)and become like children (trusting, humble, and forgiving), you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is greatest in the kingdom of heaven…”
Our relationship with God is just that: a relationship.
He isn’t asking for a religious display of our worth. He isn’t asking for a show of our abilities to be goo. Relationships are built on trust and respect. God only requires “childlike trust”. The definition of relationships, “the state of being connected”. Jesus says to come to God as a personal entity, as close as a loving parent. Our trust in Him is not a part of our completing some required regime of religious activities.
Example of activities about God
but not always with God: church attendance, ritualistic prayer, good works. Though these are not bad yet they are not the requirements for a relationship with God. In fact since James 4:8 states that “God is Love” it would stand to reason that He wants is to love us dearly….and what He asks in return is for us to “BELIEVE IT”. When He seems far away and we think He doesn’t care, doesn’t want our best: our prayers don’t get answered. When I was wondering aimlessly through the discount store looking for my mother, it wasn’t because I believed she didn’t care or love me….it was because I was disconnected from her protective devoted care. I had wondered off.
It seems too simple.
Trust that God wants to answer our prayers??? Really? Seriously could it be that easy? Shouldn’t we need a degree or sometime to get answers to life, health and well being? Uhmm…not according to the Holy Scriptures:
John 15:7 ESV “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done”
And:
James 4:2 “You do not have because you do not ask”.
Then again:
Matthew 21:22 “and whatever you ask for in prayer believing, you will receive”.
And:
James 4:2 “You do not have because you do not ask”.
Then again:
Matthew 21:22 “and whatever you ask for in prayer believing, you will receive”.
