“Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.” Matthew 9:13-15
There are several instances recorded where Jesus met the needs of children.
Luke 8 gives us the story of a ruler of the synagogue who came to Jesus and fell at His feet. His daughter was extremely sick, and her father was willing to humble himself and ask Jesus for help. Jesus started on his way. But as usual, the crowd pressed around Him and he was delayed. When He finally began his way again, someone came from Jairus’ house with the news that the little girl was dead. No doubt Jesus already knew this, but He continued His way. His words to the father brought new hope.
“But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.” Luke 8:50
Luke 9 records the story of a father who brought his only son to Jesus in desperation. An evil spirit had plagued the little boy. Some of the disciples had prayed for him but nothing happened. Then Jesus arrived on the scene.
“And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.” Luke 9:42
Luke 7 records two different stories. The centurion’s beloved servant received healing because Jesus spoke the word. A widow received her only son back to life, as Jesus met the funeral procession.
Children are precious in the eyes of the Lord. He cares for them and loves them. He certainly set an example for us as to how we should treat them. Those that He entrusts into our care are unique gifts and deserve our love and compassion. The children in our church and in our neighbourhoods should be treated with kindness and respect. A word of blessing and encouragement may be just what they need.
Thought For Today: “Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
Devotion by: Anne Johnston
2 Comments
Thank you. I enjoyed reading this. It shed new light on things that I have never fully understood, but I see in a clear interpretation way, now. Also, pls pray for my Grandchildren, who I can’t see bc of past situations. Their names are Nathaniel, Miley, and Rhylan; ages, 17, 15, and 7 yrs old. Without our prayers, they are LOST bc of the environment they are in. Ty, Sister Johnson. Pls pray for me, too, as I have a health problem. Ty.🙏
God bless you, Tina. I am glad that you enjoyed this. You and your family are on my prayer list. I have one child and some grandchildren that are not serving the Lord. We just take them to the Lord every day in prayer, know that He loves them far more than we do, and that He works all things together for good. Never stop praying.