The Heart of God for Children: A Divine Calling for Every Parent and Believer
- Michael Hopkins
- Jun 23
- 4 min read
This past Sunday, Pastor Nathaniel Gbah—leader of Jehovah Saints Church in Liberia and President of Jehovah Saints International in Liberia—delivered a heartfelt sermon entitled “The Priority of Children.” In a world constantly striving for success, money, and position, Pastor Gbah reminded us that God's priorities often look radically different: to God, children are not only precious—they are central to His kingdom.
Parenting: A Sacred Responsibility
Pastor Gbah emphasized that being a parent is more than a role—it’s a calling from God. It's a holy assignment, far more valuable than any career, financial status, or even personal ambition. Besides your relationship with God, your relationship with your children ranks highest in significance. What we model, teach, and pass on to our children will shape generations after us. Our influence over their lives—spiritually, emotionally, and morally—may be our most lasting legacy.
> “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6
Jesus and the Children: Lessons from the Gospel
One of the most powerful examples of Jesus’ love for children comes from Mark 10:13–16. People were bringing their children to Jesus so He could bless them, but the disciples tried to push them away, thinking Jesus had more important things to do. But Jesus was indignant—He stopped everything to prioritize the little ones:
> “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” — Mark 10:14
Jesus didn’t just tolerate children—He embraced them, lifted them up, and told His disciples that unless they received the kingdom like a child, they wouldn’t even enter it.
This shows us the heart of God: gentle, welcoming, and focused on the innocence, trust, and humility children carry. They’re not a distraction from "real ministry"—they are ministry.
Children Represent Heaven’s Values
In Mark 9:36–37, Jesus again placed a child in the center of His teaching. He told the disciples that welcoming a child in His name is equivalent to welcoming Him—and even welcoming God the Father:
> “Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me.”
What a powerful statement! Pastor Gbah posed the question: How seriously do we take our responsibility toward children—not just our own, but all children?
Heaven’s Greatest Are Often the Littlest
In Matthew 18:3–4, Jesus flips the world’s ranking system upside down:
> “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.”
Children are precious because they reflect the qualities God loves: humility, dependence, honesty, and innocence. Pastor Gbah encouraged every believer to model these traits and cherish them in others.
Every Soul Has Equal Worth
Whether a child is living in poverty or comes from wealth, their value in God’s eyes is the same. God doesn't judge by status, education, or possessions. He sees each person—young or old—as His beloved creation.
> “For God shows no partiality.” — Romans 2:11 > “God created man in His own image…” — Genesis 1:27
God sent Jesus to save both rich and poor, young and old. Pastor Gbah challenged us to reflect: Do we see people the way God sees them? Or do we value some more than others based on the world’s scale of importance?
The Call for the Church
Finally, Pastor Gbah urged all churches and believers to protect, teach, and prioritize children—not just in the home, but in ministry. Church is not just for adults. It must be a safe, nurturing space where children grow to know Christ personally and understand their worth in God’s kingdom.
> “Children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” — Psalm 127:3
Prayer for Today: Lord, give us eyes to see children as You see them. Remind us to nurture them, protect them, and never overlook the value they bring. Teach us to walk in humility like them and to leave a legacy of faith that spans generations.

Conclusion: Join Us in Bringing Hope to the Homeless
At Jehovah Saints, we are committed to being the hands and feet of Christ by providing safe shelters, warm meals, and hope to those in need. Our mission to build homeless shelters around the world is inspired by Jesus’ words: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).
This is more than just a project—it’s a movement of love, compassion, and transformation. With your support, we can expand this mission and provide a place of refuge for countless individuals and families who are struggling. Together, we can make a difference and shine the light of Christ in the darkest corners of the world.
How You Can Help:
Pray for our mission and for the homeless communities we serve.
Spread the Word by sharing this initiative with your friends, family, and church community.
Donate to help us build more shelters and provide essential resources for those in need.
Every donation, no matter how big or small, brings us one step closer to changing lives. Click the button below to make a contribution and be part of this life-changing mission.
Thank you for your generosity and for standing with Jehovah Saints as we answer God’s call to care for the homeless. Together, we can build not only shelters but also hope, dignity, and a brighter future for those in need.
God Bless!
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