From my heart to yours, I hope to offer encouragement as you move through this time in your adoption story.
I’ve been where you are and I want to share a few things that I wish someone had told me during my adoption wait, especially during the holidays.
“Do not let your heart be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me.” John 14:1
I fully trusted in God, but my heart was troubled. It had moments of doubt, self-pity, and frustration. Looking back, I can clearly see that God had a plan all along. I wish I could go back and spend that time serving others without limits, embracing life completely, and trusting God enough to not worry. These are the characteristics I try to live by today.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6
I prayed continually when waiting to adopt, and did plenty of pleading and petitioning I’m sure! I believe the key in this verse is “with thanksgiving”. A grateful spirit cannot focus on what we lack, but rather is focused on gratitude for all our blessings. In fact, regularly counting our blessings can change the way our brain neurons fire, creating more positive patterns. Writing down just five things you are thankful for each day is a wonderful way to begin.
“As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15
Many times we plan to raise our children in church with faith, but we don’t prepare for that until we are parents. The greatest gift we can give our children is committed, Godly parents. Sharing our faith in a church family and with family routines like worship and reading the Bible will build and maintain the solid foundation we need as parents. If you need a starting place, pick up a copy of Jesus Calling by Sarah Young and begin daily reading together.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
The unselfish reality of this verse really hit home for me while waiting to adopt. While they can’t be compared, we were waiting for a birthmother to make a selfless choice to essentially give us her child. This new understanding caused me to begin praying in earnest for my son’s birthmother, although I did not yet know her. Praying for her strength, her protection and her wisdom, I also prayed she would be led to us in God’s timing and in accordance with His plan for her, her child, and our family.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:8
As we prepare for the celebration of our Lord’s birth, let us also remember His great sacrifice that provided the miracle of salvation through God’s grace. What a joyous gift for each of us, greater than anything this world has to offer. My prayer for you this Christmas is that you are surrounded by the love of friends, family, and our Savior, knowing that you are treasured and a very special part of our own Adoption For Life family.
With Warmest Christmas Blessings,
Mardie Caldwell
