Rug Rats
Read Psalms 125:1–129:8
1. Unless the Lord builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the Lord protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good.
2. It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.
3. Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.
4. Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands.
5. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates. Psalm 127:1-5
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Does our society today think highly of children? It’s hard to tell. Never have the laws against child abuse been tougher. Never have children had so many enjoyable opportunities geared just for them. But never have more abortions been performed, and never have so many children spent their early years in day care.
If ever we needed a “family psalm,” it’s now! And God has given it to us in Psalm 127. Among this psalm’s pearls you will find a blanket statement about children, leaving little doubt as to what God thinks of them. As you read, consider whether this requires an adjustment of your attitude.
Other psalms in this reading give a plan for overcoming insecurity (Psalm 125); for celebrating God’s great works on our behalf (Psalm 126); for letting God rule in the home (Psalm 128); and for looking to God when others oppose us (Psalm 129).
God values children highly (Psalm 127:3-5). When God grants children to a couple, he grants them a blessing—bringing good to them, rewarding them. Therefore, we should value children and treat them as precious gifts.
Children are not annoying distractions, but an opportunity to shape the future. Too often we treat children like burdens rather than blessings.
If you have children, consider what you can do today to show them how much you love and care for them. If you don’t have children of your own, consider how you can affirm and help the children at your church and in your neighborhood and extended family. Begin today to cultivate care and value for children.
