Psalm 144:12

Psalm 144:12

What are our sons and daughters like?

Those of us who are gardeners will be aware that to nurture a healthy plant takes some effort, you don’t just shove it in the ground and go away and hope for the best, if a plant is valued then we will need to know the soil type that it is being planted in, what size hole needs to be made for the roots, when and how it needs feeding and watering, its position in relation to the sun and also, to other plants. We need to know how to care for its growth, when to prune and when to support any tendrils, and the right time, if relevant, to harvest its fruit or to cut its blooms. Gardening is a full-on job and can be immensely rewarding and also frustrating. Raising children is just the same, a concept that David fully understood! The way our sons present themselves in their youth is a direct reflection of the way they have been raised and nurtured. 

In the same way our daughters reflect their family upbringing and the qualities of their parents. As you will know, Temple and palace columns were often made in the shape of women, sturdy and strong, reliable and durable but also beautiful and to be admired. Modern teenagers would probably prefer not to be viewed in this way, but you get David’s point! We all need reminding at times that our offspring are a reflection of us and they can either cause us embarrassment or give us great credit. God’s work in you and me is no different!

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