Each family comes to the cross roads where they try to decide if the family size they have is the Lord’s will or if adding to it is what He is asking of them. For me, it feels like we are at this cross road. We have 3 amazing children (5yr, 4yr, 6months), two of which are adopted. The world has me ask the question, what do we desire? How many children do we want? Though there is nothing wrong with pondering these questions, it is not the best question ask and answer to seek. My plan from the beginning of starting our family was 2 children. Had I listened to my own voice, I would not have my Judah, who is such a delight! We cannot imagine life without him.
A better question to ask is, what is the Lord leading us to with regards to our family size?
In focusing on this question and seeking this answer, I can’t focus on the other worldly concerns. I have to battle the concerns and rationals I have roaming around in my head. I can’t let finances drive my decision, (though there is the concern that we can’t see $20,000-$30,000 come through for the 3rd time). I can’t let the fear of having enough money to raise another child drive my decision. I can’t let the American standard of housing for a family of 4 to impact my choice. I can’t let my preconceived plan direct my choice (I don’t know what’s best for me most of the time). Of course these are things to consider, they can not be the final dictator in what we decide.
These questions are present in my mind today but I am choosing to instead try and seek an answer to the only question that really matters, what is the Lord leading us to with regards to our family size? I am comforted by scriptures that tell me the Lord wants to reveal His will t0 His children.
James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
1 Thess. 5:18 “Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Eph. 5:15-17 “Be very careful, then, how you live–not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.”
I am resting in the Truth that the Lord knows the plans He has for us (Jer. 29:11). I am resting in the truth that He wants to lead us and give us the wisdom we need. I am resting in the comfort that His Spirit lives in me and is able to guide me (2 Tim. 1:14b). I do not have an answer today and I may not have an answer I want in a month, BUT I do know as I seek the Lord, He will lead me!
