The world is trying to convince us that children are a burden, one or many. It is understandable why families have fallen into this thinking as expenses rise and jobs do not pay enough to support growing families. Many are forced to choose between staying home with their kids or offering a second income to support the family. Not mention the fact that often times, this second income barely covers the childcare for the parent to go to the job in the first place. Meanwhile, strangers are quick to give advice or condolences when they see a three-row vehicle full of car-seats being unloaded at the store. They shake their heads and tell us, “You have your hands full!”
However, the Bible is clear that children are a blessing! God doesn’t specify the perfect amount. There is no minimum or maximum. Rather, He tells us that children are like arrows in a quiver. How blessed are those who are given a full quiver!
Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, offspring, a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior
are the sons born in one’s youth. Happy is the man who has filled his quiver with them. They will never be put to shame when they speak with their enemies at the city gate.Psalm 127: 3-5
In this passage, we are told that children are a reward! Whether these children have been born naturally to you or if they have been adopted into your family, they are a blessing nonetheless. Each child was made by the Lord and part of His plan from the beginning. Later in Psalms 139, the psalmist wrote that the Lord knit him together in his mother’s womb. Not just that the Lord planned for his birth, but he was knit together. He was fearfully and wonderfully made! Each little piece of every person has been personally touched by the Almighty and has been given His image. Every life is valuable and precious in the sight of the Lord.
Obviously, there is a responsibility that comes with having children, but what a blessing to pass on our faith to new little disciples. How are you discipling your children? Are you being effective? You can truly tell how your parenting is being received when you observe your children interacting with others. They may even show you through the way they play!
REMEMBER: When we take our responsibility of discipleship seriously, our children will not only be a blessing to us as parents but will also become a blessing to those they interact with long past our time on earth. Everything we do with our children has eternal value! Take heart and lead with heaven in mind.