Happy Birthday, David!

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate. (Psalm 127:1-5 ESV).

Today is my son, David’s 39th birthday. As is my custom in writing Morning Devotionals, I use these special days to reflect particularly on family. I suppose it should not be a surprise that I would turn to the psalms for the reading today. I am particularly drawn to the last verse of this reading: “He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate” (v. 5). It is a verse that is a conclusion. Because the man spoken of by the psalmist has his children, they are like arrows in his quiver. This is the reason he has nothing to fear from his enemy, even if they approach the gate of the city. God’s blessing is already on this man. No enemy is enough to defeat him. Family is that important. And family is one of the very best and most important things in life. I’m even more aware of this truth as I am actually in West Palm Beach, Florida, at David’s house at the posting of this devotional. Mary and I have traveled here to help with some of the moving and unpacking as David and Becca get settled in their new home. David made the decision to move there at the end of last year. It was a very difficult decision as it meant moving away from extended family; however, it was also easier knowing that this career move would mean much to the future of his immediate family. I have made those decisions many times in my own history. They are not easy, but they are necessary. I am proud that he has done what is best for his family. As I looked through some of the pictures I have stored in my computer, this one with David walking beside Maggie on a hiking trail seemed appropriate. It shows the commitment to walk beside his children while not overshadowing them. I hope that’s what I have taught through the years. A part of the Lord “building the house” is teaching our children the importance of following him wherever he might lead. Sometimes that path is uphill and narrow. Sometimes it is filled with pain and challenge. There are other times when we can hardly bear to take another step under the burden of our journey. However, taking care of our children as we raise them can never be dismissed in favor of anyone or anything else. God’s desire for us is to raise them through word and example to put Him foremost in every decision of life. I hope that is how you are raising your children. It is my renewed commitment. Make it yours as well. While I cannot say I have always done it “right,” I can say that when I have it proved to be best. My quiver is full. I am not afraid to face my enemy in the gates. Happy Birthday, David! May your quiver be as full as mine has been!