“Don’t be afraid for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
In my book, I share the stories of the three adoption losses we experienced. An adoption loss is when an adoptive family is matched with an expectant mother, but the adoption is not completed. An adoption loss occurs when an expectant mother decides to parent instead of placing the child with the adoptive family. However, our first loss was because of the tragedy of a stillborn baby at thirty nine weeks gestation
I vividly remember walking into the hospital room and seeing the expectant mother in pain. I didn’t know the right way to support her or the right words to say. I was scared she would reject us, but I felt an urge to go to her and be present. Within an hour of our arrival to the hospital the baby was delivered with no heart beat.
When I remember the details of those fearful moments, I know I was being held up by my Father’s hands. Without His urging and guidance, we may have run from such a painful and awkward experience. We were unsure of where to go or what to do or what to say. But, we did not have to do it alone.
When fear and anxiety creep in, return your focus back to the one who promises to provide strength and help. Move forward with His urging and guidance. And know that He is with you and He will guide you. He will hold you up.
Do you have any experience with adoption loss or stillbirth?
Do you have a story in which you know you were held up by your Father's hands and not your own strength?
Share your story with someone who needs enroucagement today.