Celebrating the Children

Children are humanity’s seed, a representation of present and coming generations. They are a continuation of not just familial physical features, but of ideologies and belief systems.

This already hints at their importance and significance. We see them. We love them. We want them. Or do we?

God certainly does.

God sees the children. No child, regardless of their birth circumstances, is hidden from the One who wonderfully and carefully put every part of them together. They’re known to Him even before they’re formed in their mothers’ bellies (Ps. 139:14, Jer. 1:5).

God consistently emphasizes the next generation in His plans and purposes. Israel was constantly admonished, as we are today, to fulfil God’s commands and to diligently teach the children the same, for a legacy that ensures continuous fulfilment of His blessings and promises through generations.

God surely sees and recognises children as a part of the larger picture of His design.

So commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these words of mine… Teach them to your children… so that as long as the sky remains above the earth, you and your children may flourish in the land the Lord swore to give your ancestors.

Deuteronomy 11:18-19, 21 (NLT)

God loves the children. Jesus was quick to welcome children to Himself when the disciples thought they would be a bother (Matt. 19:13-15, emphasis on 14).

Interestingly, we must note that God’s love incorporates discipline, one that’s always for our good (Hebrews 12:5-10). Healthy discipline helps to reinforce values and teachings to children just as much as it is a proof of our love for them.

Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.

Proverbs 13:24 (NLT)

God wants the children. Malachi 2:15 declares to us that the Lord wants Godly children from the union of His people.

Children are not to be unfortunate consequences of people’s sexual dealings or obligatory societal expectations. They should not be seen as disturbances or disruptions to be tolerated but gifts from God who are to be desired, welcomed and treasured.

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, The fruit of the womb is a reward.

Psalms 127:3 (NKJV)

As we take a moment to celebrate the children, let’s ensure that always and everyday, we see them for what they truly are; part of God’s design and purposes. Let us love them as we should, incorporating necessary discipline to mould them right, and we boldly show them how wanted they are — not necessary evils, but precious gifts.