Children . . . like Arrows
Psalm 127:4 says, “As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.” It is interesting that the Scriptures compare children to arrows. Thinking on this subject, it is easy to make some comparisons; and as parents, we are wise to ponder what the Lord can teach us through this verse. Several thoughts stand out about this passage of Scripture.
In order for an arrow to fulfill its purpose, it must be sharpened. It is prepared ahead of time for the moment of its use at a later time. It is the archer’s responsibility or in this case a parent’s responsibility to make sure his children are prepared for God’s use. We “sharpen” or prepare our children spiritually but also academically, socially, and physically so that they may be useful in the kingdom of God.
Arrows must also be aimed in the right direction. It certainly stands to reason that an arrow will not hit its target unless it is aimed at a specific target. Providing a godly home, a Christian education, and attending a Bible-preaching church are all important factors in providing your child with the right direction for life. If our goal is to point them in the direction of serving Christ as adults, then we must set the tone for Christ-like living when our children are young.
Finally, how far an arrow goes depends upon the strength of the one pulling the bow. Each of us desires that our children be successful in life. We want our children to thrive spiritually as well. Understand that your children will become no closer to Christ than you do. God allows us to have children. They are a gift from God, and He expects parents to be the proper example. I cannot teach my children the importance of obeying me if I am not obeying God. My children look to my example. Preparing my children spiritually for life hinges on my being what I need to be. A parent’s motto should be, “Do as I do, not do as I say.”
Psalm 127:3 says, “Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD…” Someone has said that children are parents’ homework assignments from God. It is a solemn responsibility of all parents to understand that they are accountable before The Lord to rear their children to be useful to Him. Let’s sharpen and prepare them, aim them in the right direction, and ensure that we are what we ought to be spiritually as their parents.