Read Psalm 127:4 and Ephesians 6:4
“Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands.” (Psalm 127:4)
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4)
Discover
1. To what weapon does the psalmist compare children in this verse?
2. How does this verse in Ephesians teach parents to handle these arrows?
3. Where does it say their primary instruction comes from?
Respond
While children do need our protection, don’t miss the higher calling of these verses. God wants us to view children as weapons we are crafting to pierce the darkness of the world. Yes, God gives primary responsibility to parents in this task, but the calling is for the rest of the church to come alongside them. How are you helping the next generation of world changers to follow Jesus, be transformed by Jesus, and be on mission for Him? Ask God if serving in kids or youth ministry may be something He has for you!
For Further Reading: Crafting God’s Arrows
For Families with Kids at Home
In this verse, the psalmist tells us that our children are arrows, and the ways we help them grow and develop will empower them to bring light into a dark world. Spend time today praying for your children to be a light in their worlds—in their schools and amongst their friends.
*For more practical resources related to this week’s readings, visit tpcc.org/parent-resources.
**TPCC does not necessarily endorse all For Further Reading/Learning sources. They are simply meant to be a helpful tool.