“When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” -1 Corinthians 13:11
There is a huge difference between being childish and childlike.
When we say childish, we imagine the distinct characteristics of a child, especially one having tantrums. A childish person is one who acts inappropriately for their age, that people deem him/her to be immature. God does not want us throwing those kinds of tantrums or displaying attitudes that would put a negative perspective on our behavior.
The thing that He asks of us is that we become childlike. And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 18:3)
What He asks of us is to be meek, humble, easy to be entreated and sensitive to the promptings of the Spirit. The quality of being childlike also means to be obedient to the Father. To follow His commandments and prove to Him that we love Him as much as He loves us.
We must exhibit these qualities in every aspect of our life. We should not only become childlike, but the ultimate goal is that when we have these qualities, we are teachable and we will be able to grow well and progress in this world.
