HOPE FOR THE HOME: Answering the question of adoption

Wife: My husband and I have two biological children, and we feel led to welcome another child into our family through adoption. We would be grateful for any wisdom or guidance you feel led to share.

Jerry: I commend you for prayerfully considering adoption as a biblical way to grow your family. Adoption is one of the most beautiful and powerful words in Scripture. Through faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we are adopted into the family of God—and that adoption is forever (Romans 8:15). Physical adoption likewise calls for a lifelong, irreversible commitment from everyone involved. One question for you and your husband is, “What is the motive behind your desire to adopt?” It is extremely important that you do so for the right reasons. Also, have you considered the diverse types of adoption, such as infant, foster, open, kinship, and international adoption? Each option involves its own timeline, requirements, and emotional considerations. Also, have you both talked with a licensed adoption agency or attorney who can guide you in this significant life-changing choice?

Becky: From a mother’s perspective here are a few questions to prayerfully consider as you think about adoption: (1) Have you thought through the immediate and long-term challenges that may arise? (2) Can you face these challenges with compassion and patience? (3) How will adoption impact your existing family? (4) Have you and your husband shared this family-changing possibility with your children? (5) Are you familiar with the legal process in your state?

Jerry: Scripture contains approximately forty references to adoption, both physical and spiritual. Let me encourage you and your husband to research each reference and share together your insights into this awesome, amazing and astonishing, gift of adoption. It offers a new name, a new birthright, a new citizenship and a new beginning both physically and spiritually. If you would like to receive our Hope for the Home Study Bible, which addresses many of the concerns and challenges families face on this journey, please contact us at the email address below, and we will be happy to send you a copy. If you will follow the counsel of Proverbs 3:6, you will make the right decision, “In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He shall [a]direct your paths.”

Jerry and his wife Becky are on American Family Radio weekdays at 4:20 PM (CT) and on Sundays at 5:35 PM (CT). Check out their resources for the family at HopefortheHome.org. Becky’s latest book, “The Bright Side of Blue” and Dr. Drace’s, “44 Ways to Strengthen Your Marriage” offer biblical principles and timely advice for dealing with the challenges and trials of life. You may order these and other resources by contacting them at: hopeforthehome@juno.com.