“My son” is a term whose meaning is much broader than the idea of something addressed to specifically boys or children in general. (In fact, the translation of it as “my child” in newer translations takes away some of its cultural significance.)

“My son” speaks about relationship, calling, and destiny. It says, “You are not only my physical offspring, but also my spiritual offspring. You are called to the heritage of the godly. You are destined to all that Christ has set aside for you.”

“My son” also carries the message of “builder of the family name.” It says, “Our family is represented by you— good or bad. The dignity and respect our family receives is either enriched or debased by you.”

“you are not only my physical offspring, but also my spiritual offspring. you are called to the heritage of the godly. you are destined to all that Christ has set aside for you.”

A mother shared with me how the concept of “builder of
the family name” was expressed in their own family. As her children grew up, many times they heard the words “our family does not do that,” or “you are a McKelvey and we do
not act that way.” Her children might question out-loud (i.e. whine) why other children got to do such-and-such a thing and the answer was still the same: “You are a McKelvey! We
do this….” Today, she hears her grown children now telling their own children they cannot do something or cannot go somewhere because they are a member of the McKelvey family.

Building a strong family identity will be a guide your children can measure themselves by and a standard they can live
by. It will also build a sense of dignity and respect they can carry with them into this world, enabling them to walk with integrity as they exhibit the heritage of the godly.