https://odb.org/MY/2023/06/01/in-gods-hands-2
Raising children has its own set of issues, especially in these times. As we expect Jesus to come again in this lifetime, some of us may think that it may not be such a good idea to bring more people to the world to face and go through the coming great tribulation. We can’t be sure that the children of our children will even know and accept Christ, or they are able to withstand the trials and testings of those upcoming times.
Back in the day of our grandparents, people in general had many children. As those times were hard times, it was not uncommon for children to die for a variety of reasons. Even in my own maternal grandparents’ family, they had an elder son who died in some accident when young. As those times in Malaya spanned WW2 with the Japanese occupation, many had also died during those times. I guess in the olden days, children were a resource for the family farm or business, and less thought are put into their future in terms of their education and future careers, faith, and family. If a family had 12 children, you basically need to carve out your own path in life. Your dad and mum were probably too busy just putting food on the table.
While in present times, we spend so much thought and even expense building strong foundations for our children, back in the day, children are mostly left on their own or in the care of nannies for those who can afford. The point is that life goes on and with and without those early preparations, children will nevertheless grow up and carve their own destiny. I believe that as believers, as much as we try to give our children the best based on our cability and wealth, ultimately, we need to commit them to God. We try to put them in the best kindergartens, best schools, arts and maths classes, swimming, dance, and music lessons, sports like badminton or football, in the hope they will become the best that they could be. We make sure they go to Sunday school to believe in God and have a strong foundation in their faith. How they will eventually turn out as they reach adulthood and enter the working world, the career and spouse they choose, the family they will build – those are matters we best leave to God’s hands. As the Lord has been with us all this while and brought us to where we are today, He will likewise do the same for our children and our children’s children.
As for the second coming of Christ, if it happens within our lifetime, it will happen; but life goes on. If our children have children, it should be good even if they may need to live through the end times and the great tribulation. Trust that God will give them the kind of faith and strength that will withstand all trials and testings. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and in the days to come. Trust God for our children and our children’s children.
Ronnie's Thoughts 