The Power of Children

Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 1 John 4:4

We all know the saying “out of the mouths of babes”—meaning that sometimes little kids tell unexpected and powerful truths. Did you know the phrase comes from the Bible? Psalm 8:2 (NKJV) says, “Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants, You have ordained strength.” Jesus quotes it in Matthew 21:16 a little differently: “From the lips of children and infants, you, Lord, have called forth your praise.”

The Bible often praises the wisdom and faith of children, and John calls us, his readers, “little children.” It’s not an insult and it doesn’t mean we’re weak or foolish. Rather, John says it with affection. John’s readers are his spiritual children since he was the one to tell them the Gospel, and they are also children of God. Being a child means depending on others, but being a child of God, like being a prince or princess, is also a position of strength. A prince has a lot of power. It’s not because he has his own army to command, but because a prince can access all the strength of his father.

As sons and daughters of God, we have access to God’s power, and John says we have overcome false prophets, the spirit of the antichrist, and the world. Our relationship with God gives us the power and wisdom to discern the truth. Our strength doesn’t come from us; it comes from God in us.

Questions for reflection and discussion
1. What have we overcome?
2. Are you willing to depend on God for your strength?

Prayer
Dear God, thank you for making us part of your family and sharing your power and wisdom with us. Help us depend on you for everything we do. In Jesus’ name, amen.