~ A place to find answers to gnawing spiritual questions ~
Question: Does the Bible command that we have children?I am a husband with a wife who really wants a baby. She says that the bible commands that we have children. I am a person who does anything god wants me to. If this is true, I will do it. I want children, but I am not sure if the time is right. My wife says that god will give us children when he thinks its right regardless of what we do. Any comments?
Answer: To desire a child is a worthy thing indeed. It should be understood that the Bible does clearly state that the man who has his "quiver full of them" is blessed. In order that we might remain in the realm of being true to the text of Scripture, however, I am afraid we cannot go so far as to say that the Bible "commands that we have children". How would a couple feel if they were unable to meet the "command" of the Bible to have children if they physically do not have the ability to do so? This could become a very complex and deep discussion with strong (and valid) arguments on both sides. Without stepping out too far into "controversial water,s, allow me to simply leave you with a few points to ponder, and then I strongly urge you as a couple to pray for wisdom and direction in this matter.
First, God's Word admonishes us to plan ahead for things of great importance. Consider the following Scripture: (Luke 14:28) "For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?" There is much that could be mentioned here, but allow me to simply say that there are many families who do not use wisdom in the reproduction of children, and they become a burden to the State because of the lack of finances to provide for their family. Wisdom in family planning was not used.
Secondly, Proverbs states, (Pro. 18:22) "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD." But consider also what the Apostle Paul said in 1Cor. 7:8: "I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I." He was referring to his present state of being single. The point he was making was simply that being married was a wonderful thing, but the responsibilities of the married couple limit their devotion to God. The interests must be divided between God and the provision of the household. The responsibility of raising children is a very noble thing, but it is a very serious and time consuming responsibility as well.
Thirdly, one must seriously consider how well they would be able to rule their household. Can the mother and the father work in perfect harmony to see to it that this little arrow is made sharp enough, and strong enough, and straight enough so that when the time for release comes, he (or she) will be able to hit the intended mark? See the following Scriptures: (Ps 127:4) "As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth." (Pr 22:6) "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Count the cost. Can you provide for a child? Are you willing to sacrifice, and can you accept the responsibility of raising that child in such a way that they will spend eternity in heaven? In closing, (Ps 127:3) "Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward." I have two beautiful children, and another one on the way! I certainly would not want to discourage you from bringing such a joy into your life. But I am obliged to give you a few things to consider.
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