Sermon Notes
Prosperity, security, and tranquility are impossible to attain without God’s provision, protection, and peace. Everything depends upon the blessing of God. This truth is the main point of Psalm 127.It is within this context that King Solomon talks about the great blessing of having children. As God is the only source of a well-built house, a well-defended city, and a restful sleep, so is God the only source of generations of well-trained offspring.
Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one’s youth.—Psalm 127:4 (NIV)
1. Prepare them right
It begins with the right mindset: Children are God’s best gift…his generous legacy.
Arrows do not grow of themselves. Similarly, children are to be molded and shaped with much thought, prayer, and care.
2. Aim them well
It begins with the right target: Children belong to God. They must know him and live for him.
Arrows will go where they are sent. Similarly, children will follow the direction of those who influenced them with wise words and authentic, upright lives.
3. Release them strong
It begins with the right heart: Children are loved by God. We must treasure them as more precious than our careers and our comfort.
Arrows are sent forth by a mighty warrior. Similarly, children are to be passionately persuaded to walk the righteous path.
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Small Group Discussion Questions:
1. Read Psalm 127:1-2. What do you think is the main point of these two verses? Share with your group in your own words. Do these verses promote laziness? Why or why not?
2. Read Philippians 2:12-13 and I Corinthians 15:10. How should we view the relationship between God’s work and our work?
3. What does it mean that sons or children are a heritage from the Lord (v. 3)?
4. Are children always a blessing from God? What about children born out of “unwanted pregnancies?” See Psalm 139:13-18 and Jeremiah 29:11.
5. What do you think King Solomon had in mind when he compared arrows to children and warrior to parents?
6. What did Solomon say were the benefits of having many arrows (v. 5)?
7. What are some common challenges parents are facing with regard to raising their children? Share with your group.
8. What do you think are some difficulties children are experiencing in their homes?
9. Share how you and your family are doing. Spend some time praying for each other.
