Psalms 127:3
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
Psalms 127:3
Verse 3 anchors wisdom in family life: “Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.” In ancient Israel, children were a sign of blessing and covenant continuity. The language of inheritance and reward elevates children’s status from mere possession to spiritual gift and responsibility. The psalmist ties human blessing directly to God’s gracious gift, not to human achievement. This is not a blanket endorsement of large families in every context but a theological statement that children are a divine gift within a covenantal framework. The verse also clarifies the purpose of offspring: they are part of God’s design for blessings that extend beyond the individual to the family and community, shaping the future through faith formation.
This verse reinforces the biblical view of offspring as God’s blessings and as part of His redemptive plan. It intersects with the Abrahamic covenant promises that descendants would carry God’s blessing to the nations (Genesis 12). It also highlights the sanctity and dignity of life, and the responsibility of parents to steward covenant gifts. The verse sits within a broader biblical ethic that family life is a context for spiritual formation, shaping character, faith, and worship. It invites readers to see parenting not merely as obligation but as a divine vocation infused with meaning and responsibility within God’s purposes.
In contemporary life, this passage invites gratitude for children or for the opportunities to nurture others who might become like children in our communities—mentors, disciples, orcaregivers. For those without biological children, the verse can be reframed to affirm mentoring, spiritual descendants, and investments in the next generation. Practical steps: prayer for guidance, intentional time with children and youth, and modeling faithfulness in daily life. Consider how “inheritance” is valued in your home—values, faith practices, hospitality, generosity. Celebrate the blessing of children as gifts from God, and steward them with wisdom, discipline, and grace.
Cross-References: Psalm 128:4; Proverbs 22:6; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Psalm 113:9; Genesis 33:5