Like a Child

What does it mean to be a “Pollyanna”? This word entered the vocabulary as a result of the title character of a book written by Eleanor Hodgman Porter in 1913. Presenting an optimistic worldview, this book has been adapted successfully into several films and theater productions.

A “Pollyanna” has been defined as “a person regarded as being foolishly or blindly optimistic.” Some think that Christians have this kind of worldview, seeing us as simplistic and naive. Is this true?

Indeed, the Christian life is supposed to be characterized by childlike faith. Confident that God will lead us, we’re called to trust in Him with all our hearts, not leaning on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6).

This childlike attitude is meant to apply toward everything. It means we’re not to carry around burdens or worries. Rather, Jesus instructs us to come to Him if we are “weary and heavy-laden,” trusting Him to give us rest (Matthew 11:28). And you can cast all your anxieties on Him, “because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

As you face trials, you are not to “worry about anything,” but instead, are to “pray about everything.” You can “tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” When you do this, you are promised a peace that is beyond “anything we can understand” (Philippians 4:6-7 NLT).

We even are called to rejoice and be thankful in every situation (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Why? Because “we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

People all around us may be filled with anxiety, but God offers us a life of peace and joy. We can be like a child before our Father, totally confident in Him.