There is a well-worn path stretching across every adult's life. It is impossible to grow up without travelling down that path. To retrace our steps, reviewing the sights and sounds that emerge from the time tunnel, often brings the sting of pain and the struggle of confusion. Why? Because the path is usually strewn with piles of litter. That path is the path of childhood. What is true physically is equally true spiritually. How essential is a healthy, happy childhood in the family of God…yet how rare! As we shall see, growth toward maturity requires our passing through this stage, learning certain truths, and developing certain skills that help equip us for life.