Psalm 127:3 says, “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.” This verse teaches us that children are a blessing and gift from God. There are several important implications we can draw from this verse:
Children Are a Gift from God
First, children are described as a “heritage” and “reward” from the Lord. These words indicate that children are a precious gift given by God. Just as a valuable inheritance is passed down from generation to generation, children are given to parents as a treasure to care for. This teaches us that every child is valuable and should be treasured, regardless of circumstances. Children are not burdens or inconveniences, but blessings from the Lord.
Children Are Part of God’s Plan
Second, this verse shows us that God is the one who enables conception and childbirth. He opens and closes the womb. Children are a natural result of the marriage union God established, and they fill that union with meaning and purpose. Every child conceived is conceived because God granted it. Therefore, children are part of His plan for marriage and family. They are a natural and good outcome of the marital relationship.
God Is Sovereign over Life
Third, the use of the word “heritage” implies God’s sovereignty over human life. In biblical times, an inheritance was passed down from a father to his son by divine rite. Likewise, God gives the gift of children as an inheritance to parents. He alone opens the womb and forms life (Genesis 29:31, 30:22; Isaiah 66:9). This affirms that all human life, including children in the womb, is under God’s sovereign care and authority.
Children Are a Blessing
Fourth, Psalm 127:3 is clear that children are a blessing, not a burden. In Scripture, barrenness is seen as a curse, while fruitfulness is seen as blessing. Children bring joy, purpose, and hope. The care and nurture of children have an intrinsic dignity and meaning. God intends children to fill families and homes with life, laughter, and love.
Children Are Human Beings Made in God’s Image
Fifth, children have inherent human dignity because they are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). As image-bearers of God, children have inestimable worth and value. Though small and vulnerable, they reflect their Creator. This demands that children be treated with compassion, justice, and respect at all stages of development.
Children Are to Be Nurtured in the Lord
Sixth, this verse reminds us that children are vulnerable and completely dependent on parental care. Children need love, instruction, discipline, and provision to grow. God entrusts children to parents to be raised to know God and His ways (Deuteronomy 6:4-7; Ephesians 6:4). Parents carry the responsibility to provide their children’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Children Are a Stewardship
Seventh, while children are a gift, they are also a stewardship. Parents do not own children but are caretakers of them. Parents are accountable to God for how they raise their children. This verse encourages parents to rear their kids intentionally for the Lord’s purposes.
Children Are Not Guaranteed
Finally, we recognize the sorrow of couples struggling with infertility and loss. This verse affirms God’s sovereignty and goodness while acknowledging the painful realities many face in childbearing. Not every couple will experience this blessing in the timing or ways hoped for. God is still good in the childless state, and His grace is sufficient.
In summary, Psalm 127:3 teaches us to value children as God’s blessings rather than burdens. Every human life has worth because all are made in God’s image. Children are entrusted to parents to be raised to know and honor God. Though not without heartache in this fallen world, children remain gifts of God bringing joy, purpose, and hope.
Other verses also shed light on God’s view of children:
“Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.” (Psalm 127:3)
“Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers.” (Proverbs 17:6)
“He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.” (Isaiah 40:11)
“But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.'” (Matthew 19:14)
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10)
These and other verses portray children as blessings to be welcomed, valued, and nurtured in the ways of the Lord. Each child has inherent dignity and worth as an image-bearer of God. Though not free from pain and loss in this fallen world, children remain special gifts from the Lord bringing joy and purpose. Parents are called to steward each young life with tenderness and wisdom for God’s glory.
In conclusion, Psalm 127:3 stands as a beautiful reminder that every child is a treasure. Children are neither a hassle nor hindrance but a precious heritage given by God’s own hand. May this truth compel us to cherish and protect each precious child.