CELEBRATING GOD’S HERITAGE: CHILDREN IN HIS PLAN
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Psalm 127:3
Supporting Texts: Matthew 19:14, Proverbs 22:6, Deuteronomy 6:6–7, Ephesians 6:1–4, Mark 10:13–16
INTRODUCTION:
Children are a precious gift from the Lord and a vital part of God’s plan for families, the church, and the future. They are not just tomorrow’s leaders—they are today’s treasures. In a world filled with distractions and dangers, it is the duty of parents, guardians, and the church to raise godly children who will reflect the light of Christ in their generation.
As we celebrate Children’s Day, we are reminded that children matter to God. Jesus welcomed them, blessed them, and set them as examples of humility and faith. This message focuses on how children are a blessing, how they should be nurtured, and how we can position them for divine purpose and impact.
1. CHILDREN ARE A BLESSING FROM THE LORD
Children are not burdens—they are beautiful gifts entrusted to us by God for a divine assignment.
a) God values children and sees them as His reward
(Psalm 127:3) “Children are a heritage of the Lord, and the fruit of the womb is His reward.”
b) Every child carries divine potential and purpose
Each child is born with a seed of greatness waiting to be nurtured.
c) The presence of children brings joy and fulfilment
(Proverbs 17:6) Grandchildren are a crown to the aged.
d) God commands us to love, protect, and guide them
The blessing must be honoured and not neglected.
Biblical Example: Hannah saw Samuel as God’s blessing and dedicated him to the Lord (1 Samuel 1:27–28).
2. CHILDREN MUST BE TAUGHT GOD’S WAYS EARLY
To raise strong Christian children, we must train them early in the ways of the Lord.
a) Early instruction builds lasting spiritual foundations
(Proverbs 22:6) “Train up a child in the way he should go...”
b) The home is the first and most important church
Parents are the first pastors their children encounter.
c) Teaching should be consistent and intentional
(Deuteronomy 6:7) “Teach them diligently to your children…”
d) The Word of God must be planted in their hearts
(Psalm 119:11) A child who knows God’s Word will resist evil.
Biblical Example: Timothy was taught the Scriptures from childhood by his mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5, 3:15).
3. CHILDREN NEED GODLY EXAMPLES TO FOLLOW
Children learn more by observation than instruction; adults must lead by example.
a) Parents and adults must model Christlike behaviour
Children imitate what they see more than what they hear.
b) Hypocrisy confuses and misguides young hearts
(Ephesians 6:4) “Do not provoke your children to wrath…”
c) Consistent love, discipline, and correction are essential
God’s discipline leads to growth, not destruction.
d) Godly mentors influence children’s destinies
The church must be a nurturing ground for children.
Biblical Example: Jesus grew in wisdom and stature under godly care (Luke 2:52).
4. CHILDREN HAVE ACCESS TO JESUS AND HIS BLESSINGS
Jesus didn’t push children away—He welcomed, blessed, and used them as spiritual examples.
a) Children are important to Jesus and the Kingdom
(Matthew 19:14) “Let the little children come to me…”
b) Childlike faith is essential for every believer
(Mark 10:15) “Unless you receive the kingdom like a child…”
c) Children can encounter and serve God early
Many Bible characters were called from a young age.
d) Jesus desires to bless and use children for His glory
No child is too small to be filled or used by God.
Biblical Example: Josiah began to reign at age 8 and turned the nation back to God (2 Kings 22:1–2).
5. THE FUTURE BELONGS TO GODLY CHILDREN
The next generation of pastors, leaders, prophets, and evangelists are today’s children.
a) Investing in children is investing in the future
Our legacy is not in possessions but in the lives we build.
b) Children empowered by God will transform society
They will shine as lights in the midst of darkness.
c) The devil fights children because he fears their destiny
Like Pharaoh and Herod, he attacks future greatness early.
d) God wants children to rise and fulfil His plan
As we celebrate them, we must also prepare them for destiny.
Biblical Example: Jesus was about His Father’s business at age 12 (Luke 2:49).
CONCLUSION:
Today is not just a celebration of children but a divine reminder of our responsibility to them. We must protect, pray for, teach, and raise them in the fear of the Lord. The enemy is targeting children, but God is raising a generation of young Davids, Samuels, and Esthers who will change the world.
Let us commit as parents, guardians, and church leaders to be godly examples and spiritual coverings for these precious ones. As we do, they will grow in strength, wisdom, and favour with God and man.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, thank You for the gift of children in our homes and church.
2. Father, raise these children to know and love You early.
3. Let every child in our midst be shielded from evil.
4. Help parents and teachers to lead by godly example.
5. Pour Your Spirit upon our sons and daughters (Joel 2:28).
6. Deliver our children from negative influences and traps.
7. Release divine wisdom upon all our children.
8. Let every child fulfil their divine purpose.
9. Let no child among us go astray from God’s ways.
10. May our children be signs and wonders to their generation.
