In the biblical narrative, children are consistently portrayed as a blessing and a gift from God. This perspective is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, where the birth and presence of children are seen as a sign of divine favor and a source of joy and fulfillment for families and communities.

Biblical Foundations

The Bible frequently emphasizes the value and blessing of children. In the book of Genesis, God’s command to Adam and Eve to "be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28) establishes the procreation of children as part of God's original design for humanity. This command underscores the importance of family and the continuation of life as a divine mandate.

Psalm 127:3-5 further highlights the blessing of children: "Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them." This passage illustrates the view that children are a reward and a source of strength and protection for their parents, akin to arrows that provide security and defense.

Covenantal Blessings

In the context of the Abrahamic covenant, children are seen as a fulfillment of God's promises. God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations and that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky (Genesis 15:5). The birth of Isaac to Abraham and Sarah in their old age is a testament to God's faithfulness and the blessing of offspring as a continuation of the covenantal promise.

Similarly, the account of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1 illustrates the deep desire for children and the recognition of their birth as a divine blessing. Hannah's prayer for a son and her subsequent dedication of Samuel to the Lord reflect the belief that children are a gift from God, entrusted to parents for His purposes.

New Testament Affirmations

In the New Testament, Jesus' attitude towards children further affirms their value and significance. In Matthew 19:14 , Jesus says, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." This statement not only acknowledges the inherent worth of children but also elevates their status as exemplars of the humility and faith required to enter the kingdom of heaven.

The apostle Paul, in his letters, also reflects on the role of children within the Christian family. In Ephesians 6:1-4 , he instructs children to obey their parents and parents to bring up their children "in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This guidance underscores the responsibility of parents to nurture their children in the faith, recognizing them as a blessing to be raised in accordance with God's will.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, children were vital for the survival and prosperity of families. They contributed to the household economy and provided security for their parents in old age. The biblical portrayal of children as a blessing aligns with this cultural understanding, while also imbuing it with theological significance as part of God's plan and purpose for humanity.

Throughout the biblical text, the blessing of children is intertwined with themes of legacy, inheritance, and divine favor. The presence of children is seen as a continuation of God's creative work and a testament to His ongoing relationship with His people.