DIGGING DEEPER Psalm 127 Points to Ponder

1Unless the LORD builds the house,
those who build it labor in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
the watchman stays awake in vain.
2It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest,
eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.
3Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD,
the fruit of the womb a reward.
4Like arrows in the hand of a warrior
are the children of one's youth.
5Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!
He shall not be put to shame
when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

Points to Ponder: How interesting that the Psalmist combines verses on restlessness, anxious toil, sleeplessness, and the blessing of children. If you are a parent you surely have lost sleep over your children, whether it was due to crying, hungry newborns, a sick toddler, or a late night waiting for your new driver coming home. Oh, I remember those sleepless nights. God's Word says children are a heritage from the LORD, a reward. Many times it sure doesn't FEEL like a reward. A wise man (Jack Noel) once told me that our children are the LORD's. They are only on loan to us and we are to serve as good stewards in their lives. That really impacted me, because there were times I would go to the LORD and ask what He wanted me to do with HIS child. We cannot possess our children. They are the LORD'S. That brings relief and rest knowing that God has never taken His eyes off of our children and He is more interested in their well-being than we are. He also has the power to change and transform them. We do not. The greatest gift you can give your children, especially your adult or near-adult children, is to pray for them. Be blessed today, Mom. Ours is a great calling.

Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.