Justin R. LesterFounder & AI-Ministry Strategist, TheoXTech · Pastor. Professor. AI Strategist.

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3 Jul 2026 · 1 min

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In this brief devotional, Justin R. Lester urges listeners to stop despising their younger selves and to rediscover the wonder, imagination, and joy they experienced as children. He paints vivid memories of playgrounds, drawing, and imaginary friends, contrasting them with adult responsibilities, optimization, and comparison that dampen joy. Lester frames this as a spiritual challenge, inviting prayer and personal reflection. He ties the appeal to a biblical principle, citing Jesus’ teaching that one must become like little children to enter the kingdom of God, thereby positioning childlike wonder as essential for authentic faith and happiness.

Chapters

Quit hating who you were as a kid. Think about who you were at 12. I want you to think about playgrounds and playpens. I want you to think about drawing and coloring. You had no responsibilities because you didn't have to do anything but be a kid. Why did we stop? Here's my challenge as we pray together: quit hating who you were as a kid. The kid who believed in the stars, was still listening to you. The kid who had an imaginary friend who knew everything about you. Maybe you weren't naive, and that's the reason kids are who God sees. Before the world taught you to optimize, you knew how to wonder. Before comparison stole your joy, you could laugh at the clouds. And Jesus said, unless you become like little children, you won't enter the kingdom.