Toddler’s creed

You shall not covet. – Romans 7:7

Elisa Morgan, president of MOPS International (Mothers Of Pre-Schoolers), shared this insight into a child’s view of the world:

Toddler’s Creed

If I want it, it’s mine,

If I give it to you and change my

mind later; it’s mine.

If I can take it away from you,

it’s mine.

If I had it a little while ago,

it’s mine.

If it’s mine, it will never belong to

anyone else, no matter what.

If we are building something together;

all the pieces are mine.

If it looks just like mine, it is mine.

Anyone who has ever known a toddler knows the truth of that creed. We expect to see this trait in toddlers, but we despise it when it’s seen in adults. It’s called covetousness.

The apostle Paul, who had led an outwardly religious life before he became a follower of Jesus, wrestled with that sin (Romans 7:7). After carefully studying the law of Moses, he recognized covetousness for what it is. But God in His grace change Paul. Instead of remaining a coveting, grasping man, he became a truly generous person (Acts 20:33-35). And generosity may be the acid test of whether or not we are still spiritual toddlers.

Are you allowing the Lord Jesus Christ to create in you a new, giving heart? Or are you still following the "Toddler’s Creed"? – Haddon Robinson

READ: Acts 20:32-38

Gratefulness overcomes selfishness.

The Bible in one year:

• Jeremiah 12-14

• 2 Timothy 1