In what ways can we value children as "a reward" from God? Anchoring Truth: Psalm 127:3 “Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward.” Why God Calls Children “a Reward” • They display His ongoing creative power—each life is a fresh testimony that God still speaks worlds into being (Genesis 1:28; Isaiah 44:24). • They perpetuate His covenant promises from one generation to the next (Genesis 17:7; Acts 2:39). • They invite us to experience and mirror the Father’s heart of unconditional love (1 John 3:1). Heart Attitudes That Show We Value the Reward • Wonder instead of entitlement—receiving every child, planned or unexpected, as a gracious gift (James 1:17). • Stewardship over ownership—recognizing they belong first to the Lord (1 Samuel 1:27-28). • Availability rather than mere provision—giving them our presence, not only our resources (1 Thessalonians 2:8). Practical Ways to Treasure Children Daily • Verbal blessing – Speak Scripture-based affirmations (Numbers 6:24-26). – Share specific encouragement about their character, not only achievement. • Intentional instruction – Read and discuss God’s Word together (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). – Model repentance and forgiveness so they see the gospel lived out (Ephesians 4:32). • Prayerful covering – Pray aloud with them for their salvation, friendships, future callings (Philippians 1:9-11). • Celebrating milestones – Mark birthdays, baptisms, graduations with testimonies of God’s faithfulness (Psalm 78:4). • Service alongside us – Involve them in acts of generosity and ministry, teaching hands-on compassion (Mark 10:14). Guarding the Reward in a Culture of Distraction • Limit screens and schedule margins so relationships stay central (Ephesians 5:15-16). • Honor biblical masculinity and femininity, affirming God-given identity (Genesis 1:27). • Champion life from the womb to adulthood, defending the vulnerable (Proverbs 24:11-12). Long-Term Investment: Releasing Arrows “Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are sons born in one’s youth.” (Psalm 127:4) • Sharpen—train skills and character for kingdom impact. • Aim—help them discern God’s unique calling. • Release—trust the Lord to send them where we cannot go, confident that His reward will multiply for His glory. |
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