Let us take a moment or two to better understand a verse in God’s Word. The Lord said, “Suffer little children, and forbid them not to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of God.” The word “suffer” here means to “allow the presence of” these children and not to experience frustration by their timing. It is their timing that is important to the Lord. The word “suffering” is noted because it is not the opportune time for others present who may be expected to control the setting without trivial interferences as the children are thought to be sometimes. However, when the Lord is in charge, there are often an abundance of lessons to be learned by unexpected attendees.
The “fruits of the Spirit” for believers to pursue include patience and tolerance and other virtues for Christian growth (Gal. 5: 22-23). Patience is acquired by experiencing trials for the testing of our faith. We learn patience and tolerance through sometimes “suffering experiences” or experiences that are annoying or untimely to our schedules. Children are said to be a “reward” and a “heritage of the Lord” (Psa. 127:3). Children are given unto parents as gifts and “Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate. (Psa. 127: 5).
Let us look at the results in this Scripture. Jesus highlighted the children for their desires to be near him and praised other parents for bringing their children to him to touch. (Matt. 19: 13-15) (Mark 10: 13-16). All people desiring to see Jesus are encouraged to do so by the Lord. (John 6: 37). Children often come to others when there is a desire to learn something. They are ready to learn. God’s “most teachable moments” however, may not always be for the obvious recipients. For even then, there is growth for others as well. (1Pet. 3: 15).
The correlation here is that sometimes, little children looking for their teachable moments may not always be so little after all. Learning strategies, changes in technology, and skills to master accomplishments sometimes appear to be apparent for only the generation at hand. God, however, is a Being who transcends generations without restrictions. He has always been timeless. There is nothing impossible with God. All who seek him shall find him. Seek and ye shall find answers not restricted to any one particular people or time. Paul said that he could learn and do all things through Christ. Regardless of the difficulty in seeking to please God in our lives, if we do so with all our hearts, minds, and souls, then the Lord God will bless it bringing praise, honor, and glory to the eternal Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Sower's Field by L. Michael Schoonover 