Psalms 127 and 128, songs of family strength, conclude with a look into the distant future, painting a portrait of a healthy, mature family. Like a farmer imagines his crop while planting seeds, Solomon helps us envision the fruit of our labor in the home.

In Psalm 127, the arrows are in our hands, needing direction. As the songwriter continues his thoughts regarding the family in Psalm 128, he says that “everyone who fears the LORD” will be blessed or happy. The context is the family—specifically, the children God gives. As the progression continues from 127:3–5 to 128:1–2, we see how each arrow is to be carefully directed . . .

The term “gift” is a translation of the Hebrew word that means “property, possession, that which is shared or assigned.” Children are the Lord’s possessions. Children belong to Him; He graciously assigns to or shares with parents. Now this third verse doesn’t say “some children” or even “most children,” but simply “children,” implying all children . . . your children! There is no such thing as an “accidental birth” or a “surprise pregnancy” from God’s viewpoint.

There is an ancient Greek motto that I learned many years ago. “You will break the bow if you keep it always bent.” That is worth some thought. Do I write to a parent who has become too busy, too hurried, too stressed out? God says He will reward you even in your sleep! Though you may feel too involved to back off and rest, you’d better! And on the other hand, if the Lord is not the very nucleus of your life, all the labor of a lifetime cannot serve as a substitute for Him.

Maybe it doesn’t sound very spiritual, but some aspects of family living can be a grind! Rearing a household of busy children, maintaining good communication, living unselfishly with others day in and day out under the same roof, remaining positive and affirming, dealing with strong wills, and handling some of the other domestic challenges can be a first-class chore! Hats off to all who do their very best. To set the record straight, it is worth all the effort. Someday, parents, those children will . . .