The Gift of Children

“Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain.  Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand to watch in vain…Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from Him.  Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.”  Psalm 127:1; 3-4

In modern-day American society, children are viewed more as a responsibility than as a heritage, or gift, from God. We are busier than ever, but are we, “laboring in vain,” as the psalmist wrote? Do our homes and families reflect God’s plan and show the world His heart?

You would be hard-pressed to make a case that our society truly values the children God gives us. Not too long ago I saw something that illustrates my point. On the same car were several different bumper stickers. I shuddered when I read one that said, “Keep your laws off my body,” and then another right next to it with a picture of a tree that said, “Sustainability: You would be surprised what it will save.” While this was only one car, I believe it represents a terrifyingly increasing belief system that ignores the rights of the unborn and defends the rights of trees.

Please understand I am pro-environment because I believe God’s creation reveals His majesty. I am not saying it is wrong to advocate for the environment. I am, however, saying that it makes no sense to value a tree and not a human life…and I am sure that it grieves the heart of God for anyone to do so.

What does any of this have to do with Psalm 127, you might be asking. We are living in a culture that shows little, if any, regard for unborn life, yet is outraged when a teenager opens fire in a movie theatre or school building. While I’m sure most professing Christians are pro-life, we still find ourselves living in this dark, confused, and all-out evil world. My question for you is this: do you view children the way that Psalm 127 describes them…as a heritage, a reward, and like arrows in the hand of a warrior? Or, is your view, while maybe not as extreme, slowly becoming more like the world’s?

Scripture is clear: Children are a gift. They should be cherished, treasured, loved, and nurtured. God intends for children to be sent out into this dark world as arrows in His hands, being used for His purpose and pleasure. Our goal is not to raise well-educated, well-behaved adults, but to raise disciples who will wholeheartedly follow Jesus.

Heavenly Father, please forgive and cleanse our nation of our rebellion against You. I know that each child is created by You, for You, and through You. Please help me to always value and appreciate the gift of children. In Jesus’ name, amen.