Even if you’ve always believed that life is precious and that babies deserve the chance to live, experiencing an unplanned pregnancy yourself can be overwhelming. It feels as though everything is at stake, then add the hormones that are likely affecting your emotions, and it can leave you feeling confused and afraid.
What should you consider as you try
to decide the best options for
both you and this new life?
Every human life has value regardless of the circumstances. That goes for you and your baby. You were both created in the image of God and were fearfully and wonderfully made. All of your days were written in God’s book before one of them came to be (Psalm 139:13-16). Even though you don’t know your future or the future of this baby’s life, your decisions affect both. Pray that God will help you make choices that preserve His best for both of you – to allow you both to experience the full life He offers. As Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).
Choosing to give birth to your baby is a heroic step. But that’s just the beginning. Now you must decide who will raise this child. There is great responsibility involved in caring for a child in both the short- and long-term. Being a parent means learning to lay down your life as a servant for your child (Philippians 2:3-7). Many mothers choose to take on this responsibility alone. Single mothers usually find, however, that the responsibilities are greater than they ever imagined and there will be a need for additional support.
With dependency on the Lord, a lot of work and Biblical counsel, it’s possible to make an unplanned pregnancy work.
God is in the business of turning situations that feel like a mess into redemption. Redemption may look different for each situation. It may also include your child being adopted by parents who are prepared for the responsibilities ahead. There can be great heartache in holding your new baby and then handing it over to someone else, but sometimes it’s the best choice you can make for your child’s future. It also can be an answer to prayer for the couple who hopes to adopt children.
Regardless of your situation, it is wise to seek counsel to help make the best choice for you and your baby.
BraveLove
BraveLove is a pro-adoption movement dedicated to changing the perception of adoption by acknowledging birth moms for their brave decision. Visit bravelove.org for videos and resources.
A Bump in Life: True Stories of Hope and Courage During
an Unplanned Pregnancy
by Amy Ford
Will help anyone going through or connected with this situation move from feelings of loneliness, shame, and worry to the far more lasting joy that is God’s redemptive blessing of a child.
Sav-A-Life
Sav-A-Life is a local ministry supported by CrossPoint. Sav-A-Life offers free resources for you and your baby. For more information visit savalife.org.
Embrace Grace
Embrace Grace is a ministry supported by CrossPoint. We offer support networks for mothers facing unplanned pregnancies. Contact [email protected] for more information.
