After the judgments of the tribulation fall upon the world, the Lord will reign in righteousness on the earth with resulting peace for a thousand years. The effect of sin, even in the animal kingdom, will be removed. In Isaiah 11:6 we read that in the midst of the restored creation of God, " A little child shall lead them."

A child is known for the simplicity and artlessness of faith. When the disciples asked Jesus, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? He called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said … Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:1-3).

But, alas, how slow man is to learn humility of faith! Very soon after this encounter, when mothers brought their children to Jesus, the disciples rebuked Him! With much displeasure, Jesus said, "Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily, I say unto you, whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. And He took them up in His arms, put His hands upon them, and blessed them" (Mark 10:13-16). And then He warned them that if anyone offended one of these little ones "it is better that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea" (Mark 9:42).

Every conversion, whether of a child or an adult, is a miracle of grace, but how exceedingly precious to the Lord is the conversion of children! What potential there is for fruitful service with eternal blessing! The following story makes the point quite clearly:

D.L. Moody is said to have once returned from a meeting with a report of "two-and-a-half conversions."

"Two adults and a child I suppose?" queried his host.

"No, two children and an adult," said Mr. Moody. "The children gave their whole lives. The adult had only half of his left to give."

What untold mercy when a child is converted, trained in the ways of God, and used in service to the Lord because of love for Him and a view of reigning with Him in His kingdom.

But that the older ones may not despair, grace can triumph over the longest, deepest-dyed course of sin. Though service may not be long, yet, as with the thief on the cross who repented of his sin and turned in faith to the Lord, such a testimony to God's saving grace can be used in blessing to many. And above all, eternal praise and glory will be rendered to our blessed Lord who still receives all who come to Him.

Yes, "A little child shall lead them." Let every one follow such leading of the simplicity and artlessness of faith! If an adult and not yet saved, cast away your pride and wisely repent NOW, turning in simple faith to the Saviour. He will accept you, forgive you, convert you and save you to be His and to reign with Him in His kingdom forever.