What does the Bible say about not having children?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that not having children does not lessen a person’s worth before God, though it may bring real sorrow, and that God calls his people to trust his wise and compassionate providence. Psalm 113:9 praises God’s care for the barren woman, while 1 Samuel 1:7-8 honestly portrays Hannah’s deep grief and the comfort offered to her. Children are a gracious gift from the Lord, as Psalm 127:3-5 says, yet they are not given to every household. Matthew 19:12 also recognizes that some remain unmarried or childless in distinctive callings. Galatians 4:27 points beyond earthly fruitfulness to God’s promise of abundant spiritual children through his saving grace.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Psalms 113:9 17 votes
He settles the barren woman in her home as a joyful mother of children. Praise Yah!
- Galatians 4:27 17 votes
For it is written, “Rejoice, you barren who don’t bear. Break out and shout, you who don’t travail. For the desolate women have more children than her who has a husband.”
- Matthew 19:12 15 votes
For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother’s womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men; and there are eunuchs who made themselves eunuchs for the Kingdom of Heaven’s sake. He who is able to receive it, let him receive it.”
- Malachi 2:15 14 votes
Did he not make you one, although he had the residue of the Spirit? Why one? He sought godly offspring. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let no one deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.
- Psalms 127:3-5 11 votes
Behold, children are a heritage of Yahweh. The fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, so are the children of youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them. They won’t be disappointed when they speak with their enemies in the gate.
- 1 Samuel 1:7-8 11 votes
So year by year, when she went up to Yahweh’s house, her rival provoked her. Therefore she wept, and didn’t eat. Elkanah her husband said to her, “Hannah, why do you weep? Why don’t you eat? Why is your heart grieved? Am I not better to you than ten sons?”
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