S) "12 Let our sons in their youth be as grown-up plants,
And our daughters as corner pillars fashioned as for a palace;"
Psalm 144:12 (NASB)
O) The symbolism of this verse should be recognized, that grown up plants (at least healthy ones) are fruitful. I thought it was a little curious that David would pray this for the young sons, but I suppose it is simply to say that they would bear fruit in their lives early. This could be seen as something of a contrast to the prodigal son, who doesn't realize what faithfulness means until he is older. As for the daughters, there are a few things to consider. First, there is a surface level of value placed on beauty. I don't think that is all we can get from this, though, because there are many things used throughout the Old Testament, to convey beauty, but they often lack permanence or strength (like flowers, for example). In this case, pillars are vital parts to the structural integrity of a building. Likewise, women are vital to the structural integrity of society. That they would be beautiful while being important, should not detract from heir importance, but add to their appeal.
A) While I don't think I would pray this literally (since some of the symbolism is certainly archaic), the principles behind these prayers are still upon my heart for my children. I hope my son does start bearing righteous, good fruit, even in his young age today. I do pray that my daughters are vital to the structural integrity of their society, in their marriages, families, business, or communities. That they are beautiful is already apparent. I would certainly pray these things, elementally, across both genders for my children (that my daughters are fruitful and my son is integral), but I also would not pretend they will all be the same. Most importantly, I should be thoughtful when I pray for my children.
P) Father, You are the perfect Dad. I hope to be the best reflection of Your fatherhood that I could possibly be, and I pray for Your grace to cover me while I try to live that out. Open the eyes and ears of my children, that they would know You. Soften their hearts to the gospel, that they would be ever repentant and submitted to the lordship of Christ. Those are the most important things. From there, I pray that they are people of integrity, bearing fruit, seeking to further Your kingdom, as they love You and others. Let Ella continue to learn humility. Let Caleb learn patience. Let Kaia learn Your unconditional love. Let Your will be done in each of my children. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.
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