Adoption—Is it Our Calling?

I learned that November is National Adoption Awareness Month and wanted to do a series on adoption. I wanted to not only talk about the Biblical aspect of adoption, but also share adoption stories from those who are just starting the journey, to those who are on the journey and those who have already adopted.

Let's start by looking to the Bible and see what God has to say about adoption.

The Greek word for adoption is huiothesia. It is made up of two words—huios which means son and thesis which means placement. In essence, adoption is when a son (or daughter) is placed in a home.

God created each and every person. We are all His creation. We are not called His children until we come to know Christ as our Lord and Savior and then God adopts us into His family.

“For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.’” ~ Romans 8:15

“to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” ~ Galatians 4:5

God also calls all of His children to take care of orphans.

“to visit orphans and widows in their trouble” ~ James 1:27

“He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger giving him food and clothing.” ~ Deuteronomy 10:18

“To do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, That the man of the earth may oppress no more.” ~ Psalm 10:18

He specifically tells us not to bring any hardship to orphans and I take that as a call to help.

“You will not afflict any widow or fatherless child.” ~ Exodus 22:22

“Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless.” ~ Zechariah 7:10

We also read about how He protects and cares for orphans. If we are called to live like Christ, then we are called to do God’s will. To receive a good idea of what God’s will is, would be to figure out what He is already doing and join Him.

“You are the helper to the fatherless.” ~Psalm 10:14

“A father of the fatherless” ~Psalm 68:5

“The Lord watches over the strangers, He relieves the fatherless and the widow” ~ Psalm 146:9

He even goes so far as to tell us that by not taking care of orphans, we are being rebellious.

“Your princes are rebellious. . . .They do not defend the fatherless” ~ Isaiah 1:23

I’m not saying that we are all called to bring a child into our home through adoption (although I believe more of us are called than those who are being obedient), but we are all called to help care for orphans and help other families bring children home through adoption. We can help by giving financially, giving of our time to fundraisers or helping in the home, praying, and more. I am sure everyone at least knows of someone who has been adopted or of a family that has adopted. I’m also sure that if you have questions about adoption or how you can help, those people would be more than willing to share with you. I also hope to share some stories with you from people who are somehow affected by adoption. Please check back each Friday of November to read about adoption!