What is the significance of Psalm 127:3?

Psalm 127:3 states: "Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him." This verse, nestled within one of the Psalms of Ascent attributed to Solomon, carries profound significance that resonates through the ages. The Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134) were likely sung by pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. Psalm 127, in particular, provides insights into the divine perspective on family, labor, and the blessings of God.

To fully grasp the significance of Psalm 127:3, it's essential to consider the broader context of the psalm and its place within the Wisdom and Poetry literature of the Old Testament. Psalm 127 is a short but deeply rich psalm that underscores the futility of human endeavors without God's blessing. The psalm begins with a powerful assertion in verses 1 and 2:

"Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves." (Psalm 127:1-2, NIV)

These opening verses set the stage for understanding verse 3 by emphasizing the sovereignty of God in all aspects of life, including our work and our families. The psalmist reminds us that human efforts, no matter how diligent, are ultimately futile without God's involvement and blessing. This theme of divine sovereignty and human dependence is crucial for interpreting the significance of children as a heritage from the Lord.

In verse 3, the term "heritage" (or "inheritance" in some translations) is used to describe children. This word choice is significant because an inheritance is something of great value that is passed down from one generation to the next. It is not something earned but rather a gift received. By referring to children as a heritage from the Lord, the psalmist underscores that children are a precious gift from God, entrusted to parents to nurture, guide, and cherish.

The phrase "offspring a reward from him" further amplifies this idea. In the ancient Near Eastern context, children were often seen as a sign of God's favor and blessing. They were considered a reward, not in the sense of a prize for good behavior, but as a gracious gift from a loving God. This perspective is echoed throughout the Old Testament, where barrenness was often viewed as a misfortune and the birth of children as a cause for great joy and celebration. For instance, in Genesis 21:1-7, the birth of Isaac to Abraham and Sarah in their old age is portrayed as a miraculous gift from God, fulfilling His promise and bringing immense joy to the couple.

Moreover, the significance of children as a heritage from the Lord extends beyond the immediate family to the broader community and the nation of Israel. Children were seen as the future bearers of the covenant promises, the ones who would carry forward the faith and traditions of their ancestors. This communal aspect is evident in Deuteronomy 6:6-7, where parents are instructed to diligently teach God's commandments to their children, ensuring the continuity of faith across generations:

"These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." (Deuteronomy 6:6-7, NIV)

In this light, Psalm 127:3 serves as a reminder of the sacred responsibility that comes with the gift of children. Parents are called to recognize their children as God's heritage and to raise them in the knowledge and fear of the Lord. This involves not only providing for their physical needs but also nurturing their spiritual growth and guiding them in the ways of righteousness.

The significance of Psalm 127:3 also extends to the broader theological theme of God's providence and care. Just as God is the ultimate builder of the house and the protector of the city, He is also the giver and sustainer of life. This understanding fosters a sense of humility and dependence on God, recognizing that our efforts to build families and raise children are ultimately undergirded by His grace and provision.

In the New Testament, this theme is echoed in passages such as James 1:17, which states:

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." (James 1:17, NIV)

Children, as good and perfect gifts from God, are to be received with gratitude and stewarded with care. This perspective challenges the modern tendency to view children primarily through the lens of personal fulfillment or societal contribution. Instead, it calls us to see them as divine blessings entrusted to us for a time, with the ultimate goal of raising them to know and serve the Lord.

Furthermore, the imagery of children as a heritage from the Lord can be seen as a reflection of God's own character and His relationship with His people. Throughout Scripture, God is depicted as a loving Father who delights in His children and desires to bless them. This parental imagery is poignantly captured in passages such as Psalm 103:13:

"As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him." (Psalm 103:13, NIV)

In this sense, Psalm 127:3 not only speaks to the value of children but also points us to the heart of God as a compassionate and generous Father. It invites us to trust in His provision and to embrace the gift of children with a sense of awe and responsibility.

In conclusion, the significance of Psalm 127:3 lies in its profound affirmation of children as a heritage and reward from the Lord. This verse calls us to recognize the divine origin of life, to value and cherish children as precious gifts, and to fulfill our God-given responsibility to raise them in the knowledge and fear of the Lord. It reminds us of our dependence on God's blessing in all our endeavors and encourages us to trust in His providence and care. Ultimately, Psalm 127:3 points us to the heart of God as a loving Father who delights in His children and desires to bless them abundantly.