I've had a lot of things on my mind lately and not really sure what the Lord wants me to do about them. I thought that I would try to write this post and see what happens, if you are reading it I guess it passed.
The Lord has given Ken and I a passion for the orphan. Over the years that has taken on different forms, mostly in the form of fostering and also adoption. It has not always been an easy road but it has been one that we have loved traveling.
The last few months for us have been a challenge and so I have had to do some serious thinking and praying. I have often said that the Lord sometimes calls us to things that are difficult. I believe that still. The challenge lately has been, knowing that it is hard at times should I encourage others to adopt?
As I have thought and prayed about this the Lord re-opened my eyes to several things:
1. Satan watches and he is cunning and he sees my area of weakness.
Scripture says: "The Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one." 2 Thessalonians 3:3
2. If things were always easy I would be totally relying on myself and I would take God out of the equation. I have to rely on Him step-by-step. Oh - wait, sometimes I take God out of the equation even when things are hard.
Scripture says: "But Jesus said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. " 2 Corinthians 12:9
3. God is sovereign, we are where we are because He has placed us right here.
Scripture says: "The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy. They are steadfast for ever and ever, done in faithfulness and uprightness." Psalm 111:7-8
4. The Lord cares for our family and each of us so much that He sent His Son to earth for us. He hasn't left us to our devices.
Scripture says: "Everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God. " I John 5:4-5
5. Even with the difficulties I would not desire to change a thing. To be with the Lord in His will in difficulty is much better than thinking things are going smoothly outside of His will.
Scripture says: "The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth." Psalm 145:18
6. When I am tired I don't respond well to much of anything. Sad but true. I need proper rest in a trial to help me to respond clearly and properly and being in step with the Lord helps me to rest.
Scripture says: "The fear of the Lord leads to life: then one rests content, untouched by trouble." Proverbs 19:23
These are not new things I've learned but I have been gently reminded by my loving Heavenly Father of them lately.
My response to these truths is actually not very complicated. When the difficulties come I need to:
1. Pray, pray, pray. Before I call a friend or eat chocolate I need to have a solid conversation with the Lord.
"I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer." Psalm 17:6
2. Get in the Word. The Lord speaks to me through His Word. I need the wisdom that only comes from God to live my life victoriously for Him.
"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." James 1:5
3. After #1 and #2 now I can talk with my husband, call a friend, and grab that chocolate!
The short answer to my ponderings is "yes" I should continue to encourge those that desire to follow the Lord in adoption or fostering. Because it is clear in His Word that the Lord has a heart for the orphan and so those He calls we will encourage.
.
2 comments:
Adoption is NOT for the faint of heart. With our adoption ministry, it is a a very fine line between sharing my excitement and being honest regarding the heartache involved.
I usually say, no, it is not all roses...what really is?! Once I get to know someone well enough, I share that is an emotional journey and afterwards can be rough and you have to be prepared.
I was talking to someone the other day who is trying to figure out between 2 different kinds of adoptions and she can't believe how drained she is, time consuming and why she has been so emotional. I told her, it is only the beginning...be prepared. I shared that I cried A LOT in the car going to work during process (and yep, even some after). I was scared to share that detail, but I think people's hearts need to be prepared .
I feel there is a need and God is using me in that pivotal position to encourage others to move forward. I see it as a blessing to be a stepping stone in these people's journies. To see an orphan find a forever home and to know the love of Jesus.
If God has stirred their hearts and equipped them for 'battle' (so to speak), then I want to be a part of something bigger. Something that is amazing, beautiful, ecstatic....as well as, terrifying, unpredictable, involves disappointment and heartache and rocks people to the core.
God never told us anything would be easy, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't do it. "God is bigger than the air I breathe, the world we'll leave"
Don't let Satan in and keep your eyes on the prize, which is heavenly! Continue to encourage others who are fully devoted to this gift of adoption and know "all things work to the greater good of those who lvoe him."
You have a gift Amy and you should share it. You are able to speak from the depths of your heart and have the experiences to back it up. Be honest, but continue on. I always am reminded of those little faces that need a loving home:)
Thanks for sharing your heart and hope I provided some encouragement.
great post amy! you are so grounded in your faith and i appreciate that in a day when many look for what tickles their ears or seems right to them or maybe is just easiest. you had great reminders and great scriptures... thank you! may the God of the universe speak clearly to you as you seek to give wise counsel and godly encouragement in this great task of caring for the orphan! much love!
Post a Comment