A wise man said, “The most precious jewels you’ll ever have around your neck are the arms of your children.” Job felt that way, and he was always concerned when they gathered for parties. Commentator Duane Garrett wrote, “Besides showing that Job’s family led a blessed, joyful life, the parties that Job’s children held on their birthdays served to illustrate Job’s extreme piety.” Job never failed to offer sacrifices to atone for any sins his children may have committed.

We don’t offer sacrifices for our children now, but we can and must intercede for them. James 5:16 says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (NIV). Jesus taught us to always pray and not give up (Luke 18:1). The Lord told Simon Peter, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you” (Luke 22:31-32).

If you have a youngster of any age, pray for them today. If you don’t, pray for someone else’s children. You can be sure they need it!

It is only rest in God’s presence and grace that will make you a joyful and patient parent.
Paul David Tripp