Reconnecting with Your Inner Child: Nurturing Playfulness and Wonder

As adults, life often becomes filled with responsibilities, pressures, and routines that leave little room for playfulness, wonder, or the simple joys we experienced as children. Yet, Jesus Himself invites us to approach life with childlike faith and wonder, reminding us that “the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). Reconnecting with our inner child and nurturing a sense of playfulness and wonder can bring joy, refresh our spirits, and even deepen our relationship with God.

Childlike wonder isn’t about ignoring life’s realities or responsibilities—it’s about embracing the beauty of the present moment, delighting in simple pleasures, and trusting in God’s goodness with an open heart. Let’s explore how to reconnect with that sense of playfulness and wonder and rediscover the joy of childlike faith.

1. The Importance of Childlike Faith

In Matthew 18:3, Jesus says, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” He wasn’t calling us to immaturity, but to childlike qualities such as trust, openness, and a sense of awe. Children trust without reservation, they ask questions with curiosity, and they find joy in the simplest things.

As we grow older, cynicism, doubt, and the demands of life can dull our sense of wonder. Reconnecting with our inner child means restoring that joyful trust in God, embracing His goodness, and allowing ourselves to marvel at the beauty of creation and the miracles of everyday life.

How to Cultivate Childlike Faith:

• Trust God with simplicity. Like a child trusts their parent, let go of trying to control everything and place your trust in God’s care.
• Be curious in your faith. Ask questions, explore the mysteries of God, and approach the Bible with a fresh perspective, eager to learn more.
• Delight in God’s creation. Take time to marvel at the world around you, from a beautiful sunset to the laughter of a child, recognizing God’s handiwork in it all.

2. Rediscovering Playfulness

Play is an essential part of life, not just for children, but for adults as well. It lightens our hearts, reduces stress, and brings joy into our daily lives. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that “there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens,” including a time for joy and play.

Reconnecting with your inner child means making time for activities that spark joy and laughter. Whether it’s drawing, playing a sport, or simply being silly, these playful moments can help us reconnect with the joy God intends for us. Play is not just a distraction—it’s a way to refresh our spirits and connect with the joy of being alive.

Ways to Reconnect with Playfulness:

• Engage in activities you loved as a child. Whether it’s flying a kite, coloring, or riding a bike, let yourself enjoy these simple pleasures again.
• Be spontaneous. Break out of your routine and try something new, even if it’s something small. Playfulness thrives in spontaneity.
• Laugh often. Spend time with people who make you laugh, watch something funny, or find joy in everyday situations. Laughter is a gift from God that renews our hearts.

3. Embracing Wonder in Everyday Life

Children have an innate ability to see the world with fresh eyes. They notice the small things, like a butterfly or a dandelion, and marvel at their beauty. As adults, it’s easy to overlook these everyday wonders, but Jesus calls us to embrace that childlike sense of awe.

When we slow down, we can rediscover the wonder in our surroundings—whether it’s in nature, relationships, or even in the presence of God Himself. Psalm 8:3-4 says, “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them?” The psalmist expresses a sense of wonder and awe at God’s creation, reminding us to do the same.

How to Embrace Wonder:

• Be present in the moment. Slow down and take time to appreciate the small details of life. Look at the world with fresh eyes.
• Spend time in nature. Go for a walk, sit in the park, or gaze at the night sky, and allow yourself to be amazed by the beauty of creation.
• Reflect on God’s work in your life. Take time to recognize the ways God has been at work in your life, both in big moments and small, everyday blessings.

4. Reconnecting with God Through Play and Wonder

The Bible encourages us to approach God with a childlike heart, full of trust and wonder. As we reconnect with our inner child, we can also deepen our relationship with God. When we embrace playfulness and wonder, we open ourselves up to experiencing His joy and creativity in new ways.

Zephaniah 3:17 tells us that God “will rejoice over you with singing.” This beautiful image of God’s joy over us reminds us that He delights in our joy. When we allow ourselves to play, laugh, and marvel at His creation, we reflect the heart of God, who takes pleasure in His children.

Ways to Reconnect with God:

• Play as an act of worship. Engage in playful activities with the mindset that you are honoring God by enjoying the life He has given you.
• Pray with wonder. Approach God with a sense of awe, thanking Him for the beauty and blessings He has placed in your life.
• Trust in God’s love like a child. Lean into God’s love with the trust and simplicity of a child, knowing that He cares for you deeply.

Conclusion: Nurturing Your Inner Child

Reconnecting with your inner child is about more than just having fun—it’s about rediscovering the joy, trust, and wonder that come from seeing the world through a childlike lens. By nurturing a sense of playfulness and wonder, you can renew your spirit, deepen your faith, and experience the joy God desires for you.

As you embrace this journey, remember that God delights in your joy and invites you to live with childlike faith, trusting in His goodness and marveling at His creation. Take time to play, laugh, and wonder—and in doing so, you’ll find yourself drawing closer to the heart of God.

Ready to reconnect with your inner child and embrace a sense of playfulness and wonder? Let’s explore how to renew your spirit and deepen your faith through childlike joy. Book a free 30-minute strategy session today and start your journey toward rediscovering the beauty of childlike faith.