Childlike faith is a concept deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible. It embodies simplicity, trust, and innocence in approaching God. Throughout the scriptures, we encounter numerous instances where individuals, regardless of age or status, exemplify this profound faith.
In this article, we will explore twelve such examples, each offering valuable insights into the nature of faith and its significance in the lives of believers. From the tender trust of children to the unwavering confidence of adults, these stories illuminate the timeless truth that faith, in its purest form, has the power to move mountains.
Examples of Childlike Faith in the Bible
#1. Jesus and the Children (Mark 10:13-16)
In Mark 10:13-16, we witness a touching interaction between Jesus and the children. When the disciples rebuke those bringing children to Jesus, He responds, saying, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” This passage highlights the importance of childlike faith in entering the kingdom of God. Jesus embraces the innocence and trust of children, teaching us to approach Him with the same simplicity and openness.
#2. The Widow’s Mite (Mark 12:41-44)
In Mark 12:41-44, Jesus observes a poor widow putting two small copper coins into the temple treasury. Despite her poverty, she gives all she has. Jesus praises her, saying, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” This story exemplifies childlike faith in sacrificial giving, demonstrating trust in God’s provision even in the midst of scarcity.
#3. The Boy with the Five Loaves and Two Fish (John 6:1-14)
In John 6:1-14, a boy offers his lunch of five loaves and two fish to Jesus to feed a large crowd. Despite the seemingly inadequate provision, Jesus miraculously multiplies the food to satisfy the multitude. This account illustrates the power of childlike faith in offering what little we have to Jesus, trusting Him to multiply our meager resources for His glory and the benefit of others.
#4. Samuel’s Response to God’s Call (1 Samuel 3)
In 1 Samuel 3, Samuel, a young boy serving in the temple, hears God calling his name in the night. Mistaking the voice for that of Eli, he responds, “Here I am,” and runs to Eli. After several attempts, Eli realizes it is the Lord calling Samuel. Samuel then responds, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” This narrative showcases Samuel’s immediate obedience and willingness to listen, demonstrating the simplicity and trust characteristic of childlike faith.
#5. The Little Girl with Naaman (2 Kings 5:1-19)
In 2 Kings 5:1-19, a young Israelite girl, captured and serving in Naaman’s household, suggests to her mistress that Naaman seek healing from the prophet Elisha in Israel. Despite her status as a captive, she demonstrates remarkable faith in the God of Israel’s power to heal. Naaman eventually follows her advice and is miraculously healed of leprosy. This story highlights the profound impact of childlike faith expressed through simple acts of trust and obedience.
#6. David Facing Goliath (1 Samuel 17)
In 1 Samuel 17, we encounter the famous story of David facing the giant Philistine warrior, Goliath. When Saul and his army are paralyzed with fear, David, a young shepherd boy, steps forward in faith. He declares to Goliath, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.” David’s unwavering trust in God’s power enables him to defeat Goliath with a single stone and a sling. This account demonstrates the boldness and confidence that characterize childlike faith in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
#7. Jesus’ Teaching on Faith (Matthew 18:1-5)
In Matthew 18:1-5, Jesus addresses His disciples’ question about who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven by calling a little child to Him. He says, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus emphasizes the necessity of childlike faith for entering the kingdom and reminds His followers of the humility and simplicity required to receive God’s blessings.
#8. The Canaanite Woman’s Faith (Matthew 15:21-28)
In Matthew 15:21-28, a Canaanite woman approaches Jesus, pleading for her daughter’s healing. Initially, Jesus seems to ignore her, but she persists, demonstrating extraordinary faith. She says, “Lord, help me!” Jesus tests her faith, saying, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” Undeterred, she responds, “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” Jesus commends her faith, saying, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” This encounter illustrates the persistence and tenacity of childlike faith, even in the face of apparent rejection.
#9. The Faith of Jairus’ Daughter (Mark 5:21-24, 35-43)
In Mark 5:21-24, 35-43, Jairus, a synagogue leader, pleads with Jesus to heal his dying daughter. Despite delays and interruptions, Jairus displays unwavering faith in Jesus’ ability to heal his daughter. When messengers bring news of her death, Jesus encourages Jairus, saying, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” He then proceeds to raise the girl from the dead, demonstrating the power of childlike faith to overcome even death itself.
#10. The Healing of the Centurion’s Servant (Luke 7:1-10)
In Luke 7:1-10, a Roman centurion sends Jewish elders to Jesus, requesting healing for his servant. The centurion demonstrates remarkable faith, declaring, “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” Jesus marvels at the centurion’s faith, saying, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.” The servant is healed instantly, illustrating the power of simple, unwavering trust in Jesus’ authority and word.
#11. The Faith of Mary, the Mother of Jesus (Luke 1:26-38)
In Luke 1:26-38, the angel Gabriel appears to Mary, announcing that she will conceive and give birth to the Son of God. Despite her initial confusion and fear, Mary responds with humility and faith, saying, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.” Mary’s submission to God’s plan, despite the seemingly impossible circumstances, demonstrates the profound trust and obedience characteristic of childlike faith.
#12. The Faith of the Syrophoenician Woman (Mark 7:24-30)
In Mark 7:24-30, a Syrophoenician woman begs Jesus to heal her demon-possessed daughter. Initially, Jesus seems to dismiss her, saying, “First let the children eat all they want, for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” However, the woman persists, saying, “Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” Jesus commends her faith, saying, “For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter.” This encounter highlights the boldness and persistence of childlike faith, even in the face of apparent rejection.
Closing Thoughts
The examples of childlike faith in the Bible offer us profound insights into the nature of faith and its transformative power in the lives of believers. From the simplicity and trust of children to the boldness and persistence of adults, these stories remind us that true faith is characterized by humility, obedience, and unwavering trust in God’s promises. As we reflect on these narratives, may we be inspired to cultivate a childlike faith in our own lives, approaching God with open hearts, unyielding trust, and a willingness to surrender to His will.