We’ve been happily married for two years. Before we married, we talked about everything including having children. We both agreed we’d like to have children. Now, with the world in such chaos, including the world wide pandemic, we’re not certain about going ahead to start a family. We’re both in our late 30’s and waiting much longer may be too late. We were both raised Christian and think perhaps we should go ahead and have faith that bringing children into this world of ours will work out just fine. Your suggestions are most welcome.

-Indecisive Couple

Dear Indecisive Couple ~

How lovely that you’re thinking about starting a family! Children come with challenges that may cause you to rethink everything you know about childrearing. Fortunately, seeing their sweet faces and watching years of discovery and development also comes with blessings beyond belief. This endeavor is not for the faint of heart, but the benefits far outweigh the trials.

Yours is a concern shared by many. I remember feeling the same way when I was about your age. It’s a tough decision that requires much prayer and contemplation. One essential element to consider is that the world will likely be in some form of chaos due to our limited understanding. But, that doesn’t have to define us or inform our choices. There is a continuing battle between the Light and the darkness. We know that:

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places.” Ephesians 6:12 (AMP)

The world can indeed be a scary, sometimes unforgiving place. However, we don’t have to be afraid because, as people of faith, we know who wins!

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NKJV)

Scripture reminds us that children are both a blessing and our legacy.

“Don’t you see that children are God’s best gift? the fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior’s fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents, with your quivers full of children!” Psalm 127:5-6 (MSG)

I wonder what the world would have looked like if our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents had chosen not to have children because what they were bringing their progeny into was just too contentious. They lived through times fraught with diseases, such as cholera, smallpox, and tuberculosis. Their trials included WWI, WWII, wars in Asia, the Middle East, The Cold War, and The Great Depression. Times were tough, and many suffered from hunger, homelessness, and the loss of many of their earthly belongings.

All this, and yet they procreated in hopes that in the future, their offspring would have the wherewithal to make lasting changes; that they would be better equipped to solve the challenges from past generations and provide a more hopeful future.

As people of faith, we have the assurance that we will be provided for and protected from adversity. That doesn’t mean there won’t be trials. It means that we will persevere and faithfully look into the future with hope and an understanding that someone greater than ourselves has a master plan.

I chose to have children. My beautiful, amazing daughters are impacting the world in ways I never expected nor could have imagined. They are bright lights that embody the reality of hope in the curious dimness. My hope for you is that, as you commit your wonderings to prayer, the Lord will provide you with the assurance that your decision will align with His perfect will for you both.

“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man (and woman!) avails much.” James 5:16b (NKJV)

I’m standing with you in prayer!

Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda