©2006, Crossway Books, 158 pages in paperback. 

The basic premise of Montgomery’s book can be found in Psalm l27:4. Covenant children are like arrows. They are to be shot forth to do battle for God wherever He calls them geographically, socially, or vocationally.  Christians trust that God will grant their offspring faith and repentance.  They are to be trained in terms of God’s word.

The author was converted after she became a parent.  She raised two children as a single parent for a number of years.  She became concerned when she saw recent polls showing the moral decline of families.  Statistically, those who name the name of Christ are not having significantly better lifestyles than non-Christians.

Rightly, she begins by explaining the importance of a solid husband/wife relationship as the best basis for training covenant children.  In successive chapters she discusses the importance of building relationships, dependence on the regenerative and teaching work of the Holy Spirit, and the importance of prayer.  She devotes pages of practical counsel to single parents and age-appropriate warfare.

I do not agree with the author at every point.  She interprets Jeremiah l:5 as meaning that God has called every child prior to conception.  I don’t believe that is a proper interpretation in the context of the verse.  She fails to consider the backdrop of God’s covenant with His people and their offspring.  She doesn’t stress the sacraments as a means of grace and their impact on our children in a positive or negative way.  Lastly, I failed to see an emphasis on the vital ministry of the local church as parents mutually aid one another.

The importance of this book is that it provides a wake-up call to parents to develop a deeper relationship with their children and to get involved in their lives.  It provides needed insights for young parents in our day.

Review ©2007 Byron Snapp, Hampton, Virginia