Psalms 127:3

Psalms 127:3 declares a profound truth about the divine origin and value of children: "Lo, children [are] an heritage of the LORD: [and] the fruit of the womb [is his] reward." This verse elevates the status of children from mere offspring to a sacred trust and a blessing from God.

Context

Psalm 127 is a "Song of degrees," or "Song of Ascents," traditionally sung by pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem. Though attributed to Solomon, its central theme is the absolute necessity of God's blessing and provision in all human endeavors. The preceding verses (Psalm 127:1-2) emphasize that all human effort—whether building a house, guarding a city, or working for sustenance—is ultimately futile without the LORD's involvement. Verse 3 extends this principle to family life, highlighting that children, too, are a gift from God, not solely the result of human planning or effort.

Key Themes

• Children as a Divine Gift and Heritage: The verse explicitly states that children are an "heritage of the LORD." This powerful phrase signifies that children are a precious possession, a lasting legacy, and a blessing entrusted by God to parents. They are not merely biological descendants but a divine inheritance, demonstrating God's active involvement in the formation of families. This resonates with God's original command to be fruitful and multiply in Genesis 1:28.
• The Fruit of the Womb as a Reward: The phrase "the fruit of the womb is his reward" reinforces the idea that children are a positive recompense or blessing from God. It counters any notion of children being a burden or an accidental outcome, presenting them instead as a gracious gift and a sign of divine favor. This perspective encourages gratitude and reverence for the gift of life.
• Reliance on God's Sovereignty: Consistent with the broader message of Psalm 127, this verse underscores that the blessing of children, like all other blessings, originates from God. It encourages parents and prospective parents to trust in God's sovereign plan and provision for their families, recognizing that true success and fulfillment come from Him alone, as highlighted in Psalm 127:1.

Linguistic Insights

• "Heritage" (Hebrew: nachalah - נַחֲלָה): This word typically refers to an inheritance, a possession, or a legacy, often associated with land or property passed down through generations. Applying it to children signifies their immense value and their role as a divine trust given by God, a lasting blessing that enriches life.
• "Reward" (Hebrew: sakar - שָׂכָר): This term denotes recompense, wages, or payment for services. Here, it conveys that children are not a burden but a beneficial return, a positive outcome, and a blessing from God, framing them as a valuable asset rather than a liability.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalms 127:3 offers profound guidance and encouragement:

• View Children as Blessings: It calls parents to see their children not as possessions to control, but as precious gifts from the Lord, entrusted to their care. This perspective fosters a spirit of gratitude and responsibility in parenting.
• Trust God in Family Planning: The verse reminds us that family growth is ultimately in God's hands. While responsible planning is wise, it encourages a posture of trust and reliance on God for the gift of children, and for wisdom in raising them.
• Invest Spiritually in Children: Recognizing children as God's heritage implies a responsibility to raise them in the fear and admonition of the Lord, nurturing their spiritual development. They are a legacy that extends beyond earthly life, impacting generations. This concept is echoed in Proverbs 22:6, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
• Comfort and Hope: For those who desire children but struggle with fertility, this verse can be a source of comfort, reminding them that children are a gift from God's hand, and His timing and plan are sovereign. It also encourages prayer and reliance on Him for all family matters.