Is Adoption Right for You and Your Spouse? - Crosswalk Couples Devotional - June 30
"For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves." (Ephesians 1:4-6)
Sadly, many people view adoption as a last resort. They think it is only for couples who are unable to have children of their own. This is a great disservice to adoption; couples can adopt whether they can have children of their own or not. Because, in truth, adopted children are still your children. Even though they are not your own flesh and blood, they are still your children.
We see the people who raised us as our parents. Just because someone has a child doesn't automatically make them a parent. It takes hard work, love, and intention to truly be a good parent to a child. If you and your spouse are considering adoption, the same stance applies. You both must be willing to work hard, love unconditionally, and be intentional in your relationship with them. Many adopted children might have some troubles because of everything they have gone through, but it doesn't make them any less worthy of love.
If you and your spouse are considering adoption, it is a noble cause. Adoption represents the gospel of Jesus Christ. We were not originally children of God, yet when Jesus died for our sins and we placed faith in Him, we are now adopted as sons and daughters of the Father. Therefore, adoption is a beautiful thing, and it points us back to God Himself.
Don't feel guilty for adopting. Feel empowered and thankful that you have this wonderful opportunity. If you cannot have children of your own, it can be hard to know where to go from here; however, rest in the peace that adoption is a beautiful thing. As mentioned, they will still be your child, and they will love you. Depending on your child's age, this might come with some troubles to be worked through first, but they will be eternally grateful for your kindness.
As you and your spouse are navigating this season, consult God. Ask Him to direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5-6). Through studying the Bible, you will prepare your heart for adoption. Maybe adoption is already close to your heart because you were adopted, your spouse was, or your parents adopted a few of your siblings. If this is true for your life, you have been given a closer look at the beauty of adoption.
Adopting a child is bringing one of God's own children into your home. Without you and your spouse, they might have never received a home. Reflect upon this whenever you are having doubtful thoughts. The child that you will adopt needs you. There will be challenges along the way, but there are challenges with any child growing up, navigating the world, and trying to figure out things on their own.
The Bible tells us, "For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves" (Ephesians 1:4-6). We are the Father's adopted children, and there is great beauty in this truth.
We are no longer cast aside as individuals who do not matter. Instead, we have been brought into the family of God. By you and your spouse choosing adoption, you will be doing the same thing. You will bring a beloved child into your home and call them your own. Not only will they share your last name, but they will truly be your child. They will love you, and you will love them.
Talk matters over with God and your spouse. You will quickly discover that God will encourage adoption. You and your spouse might have a few doubts—trust these feelings with God. Allow Him to work through the situation and to guide you. Pray over the situation as well as when you start contacting adopting agencies. It is a long journey ahead, yet it is an amazing one.
"Dear God, my spouse and I are considering adoption. I have often been hesitant about adoption in the past, but now it is a real possibility. Please direct us and show us the way we should go. As we talk with adoption agencies, lead us to the right one. Please help extinguish any fears or doubts. Thank You, Amen."
Related Resource: 3 Simple Ways to Feed Your Spouse More Praise
How often do you intentionally stop to praise your spouse? To recognize and affirm their character or actions? Many of us probably cringe at answering these questions because we know we could do better! If you struggle to feed your spouse praise regularly, this episode is for you. Listen in as we share some practical steps we all can take to criticize less and affirm and build up our spouse more. If this episode helps your marriage, be sure to subscribe to Team Us on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode.
