JESUS SPEAKING
At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me. But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!” (Matthew 18: 1- 7)
INSPIRED THOUGHTS
Using a small child as an example, Jesus informed the disciples that they had to be converted and become as little children to enter the Kingdom of God. Being reborn means returning to a childlike state of enduring innocence and purity. Sadly, this world remains rife with temptations that lead to sinful practices. The devil lurks around every corner, “seeking whom he may devour.” The punishment for assisting Satan in his efforts to entice believers and little children to sin is accordingly severe. Christians are therefore prohibited from behaving in ways that might cause others to stumble.
How we dress has an effect on other people. In western society today, inappropriate clothing is common, and even celebrated by popular culture. Short skirts, skin tight leggings, and shirts that reveal cleavage are accepted and promoted as ideal. (Men are also guilty of dressing with sinful intentions.) Each of these enticing styles is worn to purposefully tempt others, and to elicit lustful glances. We read in 1 Timothy: 8 – 10, “in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.”
As the world suffers through temptations, Christians are admonished to remain pure; to exist as little children. Our actions, our mannerisms, our attire, our speech, and our habits are all being monitored by others. When they look, they must see genuine Christianity; a way of life devoid of conduct which might cause others to stumble. As the light of Christ, we must shine with His brilliance. May our lives always be an example of humility, modesty, and purity.
“Lord Heavenly Father, we yearn to share in Your perfection and purity. May we become as little children; walking with integrity; never tempting anyone to stumble into sin. Strengthen us by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Let Your light shine through us, that others might come to know You as we have. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you!
Jesus Speaks 