Researchers have long observed something remarkable about children. They begin life bursting with creativity. They ask questions, imagine possibilities, and see connections adults often miss. Yet many lose that openness as they grow older. Life teaches us to be cautious, skeptical, and afraid of failure. We stop asking questions. We stop wondering. We stop imagining. Jesus said that unless we become like little children, we cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. Perhaps childlikeness is not only about humility and trust. Perhaps it is also about remaining open to inspiration, possibility, and the voice of God.
We see this openness in the life of Samuel. As a young boy serving in the temple, Samuel heard God calling his name. He did not yet understand what was happening, but Eli coached him. His heart was open enough to respond. While others slept, Samuel listened. While others were occupied, Samuel paid attention. God spoke, and a child heard Him. That is one of the great strengths of childhood. Children are naturally receptive. They have not yet learned to dismiss every unusual thought or ignore every prompting. Samuel’s openness positioned him to receive direction that would shape the future of a nation.
Many people think creativity disappears with age. The truth is that creativity disappears when greed, lust and every work of the flesh appears. Creativity dies when cynicism grows. It struggles when fear takes over. It weakens when we become convinced that everything worth doing has already been done. But creativity flourishes where childlikeness survives. It flourishes in hearts that remain teachable, curious, prayerful, and open to God. Ask God to restore your sense of wonder. Ask Him to help you see possibilities where others see limits. The Holy Spirit still speaks. The question is whether we have remained open enough to listen.
