Nurturing God’s olive plants
DeVries expounds Psalm 128 to articulate a Reformed vision of family life centered on the fear of the Lord, arguing that true blessing comes not from worldly pursuits but from covenant faithfulness across generations. The article emphasizes the church's obligation to raise godly children as "olive plants" and addresses contemporary threats to the Christian family while affirming the various callings within the church community.
"… thy children like olive plants round about thy table." Psalm 128:3b As Reformed believers, we know how tremendously significant the institution of the family is in the church and kingdom of God. We know and believe that God, from the beginning to the end of time, is pleased to continue His covenant from generation to generation with believers and their children. The faithful church will continue, by the grace of God, in the way of each succeeding generation fulfilling its covenant...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org