CHILDREN
Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward (Psalm 127:3 New King James Version).
I had the distinct pleasure to babysit my 3 ½ month old grandson the other day. We had so much fun and I discovered how much he loves to be sung and read to, played with and simply spoiled! I remember when my children were born, the awe and wonder which filled my heart at their tiny little personages; reliving it again in the arrival of grandchildren is amazing! My heart is overflowing with love for him and when I see him next, it will be such a grand reunion!
As I process this emotional walk into grandparent-hood, I am drawn to see the parallels of the Father’s love for us. How He must long and pine for us when we have strayed from Him and He has no fellowship with us. How sad His heart must be when we turn our backs on Him. But the joy which fills His heart when we return to Him must be overwhelming! The prayers Jesus prayed for us while He was in the garden have similar undertones to the prayers I pray for my grandchildren – to be one with the Father. It’s fascinating to see the hand of God throughout.
Heritage means something that comes or belongs to one by reason of birth; an inherited lot or portion. If children are a heritage from the Lord, then we have a responsibility to teach them the ways of the Lord. We have a responsibility to love them and nurture them just as He loves and nurtures us. When they test our patience, these are the times when we need to examine ourselves and see how we can grow and mature. Sometimes we may learn more from the children than they will learn from us in a situation. Angelo and I are looking forward to leaving a legacy for our grandchildren; to teach them the love of Jesus Christ; to show them the power and fellowship that comes through prayer; to model for them Godly living and how to love one’s neighbor. We want to instill in them a deep trust for the Lord that surpasses anything this world offers and we accept the challenges that we will face.
Let’s Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, You are incredible and the love that You have for us is unmatched! The grace and mercy that You grant alongside Your love is wonderful and we can feel it envelope us. Father, if we could but take a fraction of Your love and extend it to others, it would spread like wildfire. Show us how to love our children and grandchildren the way that You love us; guide us in instructing these younger generations so that they know You more intimately; strengthen us against the cares of this world and its oppressive grasp over these generations. May we rise up as parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and relatives to help bring our children back to Your sheepfold, but more importantly, may the children have ears to hear Your voice, eyes to see Your hand and hearts ready to receive Your word. Father, we love You and we desire to bring You glory! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Today’s Attitude of Worship: I have been enveloped in a pocket of God’s love and I don’t ever want it to dissipate. Take a look at what’s gone on around you and begin to notice the love of God as He touches and cradles you. If you’ve grown distant, turn back, He is longing for you. His hands are outstretched and His lap is welcoming. If you have children or grandchildren, nieces or nephews, teach them the ways of the Lord. Be the example that Christ was. Let the children see you trust fully in God.
Additional Scriptures: Jeremiah 31:3; Matthew 19:14
It is easier to build a boy than to mend a man. ~Author Unknown
Shalom,
Prudence