Parenthood is a divine institution established by God, and throughout the Scriptures, it is portrayed as both a responsibility and a blessing. The Bible provides numerous insights into the rewards that come with raising children in the fear and admonition of the Lord.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of parenthood is rooted in the creation narrative. In Genesis 1:28 , God commands Adam and Eve, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it." This command not only establishes the procreative purpose of marriage but also highlights the blessing inherent in raising children. Children are seen as a heritage from the Lord, as expressed in Psalm 127:3 : "Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward."

Spiritual Growth and Legacy

One of the profound rewards of parenthood is the opportunity for spiritual growth and the establishment of a godly legacy. Proverbs 22:6 instructs, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This verse underscores the long-term impact of godly parenting, suggesting that the spiritual investment made in children can yield enduring fruit.

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often commends the faith passed down through generations. In 2 Timothy 1:5 , he writes to Timothy, "I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also." This highlights the reward of seeing one's faith perpetuated through one's descendants.

Joy and Fulfillment

Parenthood is also associated with joy and fulfillment. Proverbs 23:24-25 states, "The father of a righteous man will greatly rejoice, and he who fathers a wise son will delight in him. May your father and mother be glad, and may she who gave you birth rejoice!" The joy of witnessing a child's growth in wisdom and righteousness is a profound reward for parents.

Divine Partnership

Raising children is seen as a partnership with God, where parents are stewards of the lives entrusted to them. Ephesians 6:4 advises, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This partnership with God in nurturing children according to His ways is a sacred trust and a source of divine reward.

Community and Support

The Bible also emphasizes the communal aspect of raising children. In the early church, believers supported one another in their familial roles. Titus 2:4-5 encourages older women to "train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that the word of God will not be discredited." This communal support system is a reward in itself, providing encouragement and guidance to parents.

Eternal Perspective

Finally, the reward of parenthood extends into eternity. The investment in a child's spiritual life has eternal implications. As parents guide their children towards a relationship with Christ, they contribute to their eternal destiny. This eternal perspective is a profound reward, as it aligns with the ultimate purpose of glorifying God and enjoying Him forever.

In summary, the reward of parenthood, as depicted in the Bible, encompasses spiritual growth, joy, divine partnership, community support, and an eternal legacy. These rewards reflect the heart of God for families and His desire for parents to experience the fullness of His blessings through their children.