Are children really a blessing?

We live in a world full of different views about children. Most of these point to them being a burden. Sacrifices are inevitable, careers are compromised, and leisure times become a thing of the past. Many dreams fail to become a reality. With all these thoughts at the forefront of our minds, we constantly find ourselves in a ‘not yet ready’ mode.

Sadly, there are many believers who contemplate abortions for these reasons when they come to know of the so-called “good news”. Newly married couples are advised not to have children too soon. Families who have more than two kids are scorned. Do children really rob us of our joy or are they a blessing? Let’s get hold of some biblical perspectives regarding children:

1. Children fulfill the purpose of a God-ordained marriage.

Did he not make them one, with a portion of the Spirit in their union? And what was the one God seeking? Godly offspring. Malachi 2:15

The Lord desires godly offspring for the extension of His kingdom. Christ-centred marriages are the perfect fertile ground on which children can grow more into His likeness. Our God-given role, as parents, is to diligently teach and disciple them in the ways of the Lord, so that they become a shining light in the midst of a twisted generation.

2. Children are a timely reward.

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Psalm 127:3

Children are special possessions designated by the Lord for each family. They are precious gifts given by their Maker. These rewards are planted in His perfect timing. They are not delayed nor hastened. As The New Bible Commentary puts it, children are not our achievement but His gift. We do not decide the number of children; He does. He alone bestows these valuable gifts to His own.

Christ-centred marriages are the perfect fertile ground on which children can grow more into His likeness

3. Children are created with care.

For you formed my inward parts, you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. Psalm 139:13

Children are intricately knitted together with utmost precision by the Creator. Their frames are woven in the womb discreetly and with care. They are greatly treasured in His sight as they are fearfully and wonderfully made in His image (Psalm 139:14).

4. Children help us grow closer to God.

God uses them to refine our faith and dependence on Him. When they go through sicknesses or suffering, we boldly approach the throne of grace knowing that He alone can heal. When there are tough phases, we learn to wait on Him for change. We praise God when they make us laugh or when they take their first step. We find our faith being strengthened when we see God at work in their lives. We start growing in obedience to His Word and becoming more like Christ. And we find ourselves being sanctified in the process.

There is nothing to fear! Paul exhorts us to destroy every argument and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). When the Lord rewards your womb, He also gives the much needed strength and grace to handle the challenges in whatever circumstances He places us in. We only need to cast our anxieties on Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).

Seek godly counselling and help from mature believers if you are struggling. Remember, every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows (James 1:17). Once you embrace this divine gift, you will find complete joy and satisfaction and realise that children are indeed a blessing.