Faith and Fertility

I have been overwhelmed by all the support I have received in less than 24 hours of posting this blog. It is great to hear so many people say they are praying for us and to keep our eyes on God's plan for us. I think it is too often that we do not hear people affirm their faith but through this whole process and our foster care experience I have been exuberated to hear so many people respond with their faith on the forefront. I have to say that the infertility journey (let alone life's journey period) would be really hard to get through without the Lord. My husband and I were both raised in Christian households and take pride in our faith. Walking with the Lord includes all the struggles and successes. This trail period for us has been another venture on our walk in faith. The Bible says in James 1:12 "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him". It also says in Romans 8:18 "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us". A great friend once told me that God does not challenge the equipped but He equips the challenged. I find this very relevant in my life and know that I need to learn that I am not in control of everything and sometimes the intent may be for me to let go of control and let things go the way fate allows. We may wonder what our life's plan is and why we have to struggle but at the end of the day I always thank God for all that He has given us, including every test, but that I may grow through that test and become His hands and feet and give Him the glory of His work. I am not saying it is always easy in the moment but we have to take the time to meditate on how we handle each struggle and all the great things that have happened through the challenges. I know that I have become a stronger person. My relationship with my husband has become closer. I have a new profound respect for my mother & mother-in-law and their emotions to see their child hurt or in pain. I have a great love for those in my family who have adopted or been adopted. I have redefined hope and faith for myself. I have met and made great friends. Although being a parent is my dream it is not what defines me. This may not be the path that I planned but it will not break me. It is not the end!

This is another great blog that may be helpful to all those struggling but this one in particular is named "The Infertile's Manifesto". It is a great encouragement of HOPE.

PS. The quote "Infertility is a journey that makes me stronger" under the picture is from my great friend, Kate Blackwell, who always gives me great advice. :)

PSS. Philippians 4:13-I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

　http://hannahweptsarahlaughed.blogspot.com/2010/11/infertiles-manifesto.html