The decision to adopt a baby never comes quickly. Here at Lifetime, we see God’s hand at work in the lives of thousands of couples. We rejoice with them, when their prayers are answered. We love seeing the photos that are sent to us of beautiful babies in the arms of their happy moms and dads!

Maybe you have struggled with infertility, miscarriage, or just have the desire to build your family through. By whatever road you travel to this place, there are a few things to consider, before taking such an important step.

As a young woman, I had struggled with one miscarriage after another. My husband and I grieved the loss of those babies! I believed that raising children was one of God’s plans for my life. I never lost faith, that one day; I would hold my own baby in my arms.

I was ready to be a mother and it seemed that all the doors were shutting in front of me! I didn’t know then, that God’s plan was different from my own. He had called me to love and nurture children that were not biologically mine.

Take time to discern God’s will for you. He will begin tugging on your heart, long before the conversation comes up at home. Pray for guidance and turn to the Bible for encouraging words. Philippians 4:6 enlightens us to His will. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petitions, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

When God wants to send us a message, He will send people into our lives to encourage us. Have you met any adoptive parents, recently? Have you seen articles or flyers about adoption? Has the subject come up in conversation with other Christians? Maybe, you should pay attention to those little messages (especially, if they come from other believers).

One important step is to sit down with your spouse and come to a common agreement. It is wrong to convince your spouse that this is the right decision! In Mark 3:25, God tells us that, “If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.” I have seen over and over that God will change hearts. He will complete His work in His timing (no outside help needed).

I believe that God provides the answers if we take the time to hear him. Walk through each door that is opened to you. Shut doors mean God has other plans for you. Stay strong and faithful. Above all, praise Him in all things.
Blessings,
Mardie

Mardie Caldwell, C.O.A.P., is a nationally recognized authority on adoption. A Certified Open Adoption Practitioner, Caldwell is the founder of Lifetime Adoption Center, LLC., established in 1986. Caldwell has assisted in over 1,800 successful adoptions.

Written by Lifetime Adoption