Birth Control

Children—A Blessing, Not a Burden

The modern world tends to send mixed messages about the value of children, but the Bible is unequivocal in its affirmation that children are a blessing from the Lord, and a source of happiness for parents (Ps. 127:3–5). This biblical view stands in contrast to modern thinking, which slowly but surely has come to regard children as a burden on families and communities, rather than a blessing.

Scripture is not blind to the realities of raising children. In fact, it faithfully records many of the difficulties inherent in bringing children into the world. Nevertheless, the Bible insists that children are ultimately a heritage and a reward from God.

As believers today consider this truth, it should create a level of tension about easily accepting modern attitudes. For example, it seems to question the often unquestioned use of artificial birth control. Does preventing pregnancy mean turning down a gift from God, from whom every good and perfect gift comes (James 1:17)? Likewise, Psalm 127 seems to challenge current popular opinion, which holds that two or three children make a big family, and more children tend to indicate a couple's ignorance, carelessness, or indifference toward the environment. How does this square with the psalmist's assurance that “the fruit of the womb is a reward”?

Problems such as “unwanted” pregnancies and overpopulation deserve careful thought and genuine discussion. But those thoughts and discussions, as well as the decisions that flow out of them, need to be informed by biblical truth and values. Psalm 127 challenges us to consider whether we still value children as much as God does.