I recently read,
Redeeming Childbirth by Angie Tolpin. Although I am currently experiencing my 12th pregnancy, I still was quite intrigued by this book. Also, even though this book is meant to be about childbirth, there were things mentioned that can pertain to all aspects of life.
"We are a blessed nation and people, but we need perspective. The prosperity we enjoy has led to an entitlement mentality that has crept into our Christian homes and churches. This attitude of selfish indulgence breeds ideas in us that we shouldn't have to experience hardships or trials in life. We'll go to great lengths to avoid the consequences of our choices and unwittingly only delay God's law of sowing and reaping. Sadly, by dodging rather than engaging in these challenges, we cripple ourselves because we fail to learn this life lesson of cause and effect. This failure to grow and learn makes us less prepared to tackle the bigger trials in life that will undoubtedly come." (11)
While this isn't any new information, it just struck me when I read this. I think because I read this book during this election season, it was more "in my face" than if I would have read it at any other time.
Anyone who knows me knows that I truly believe children are a gift from God. While I hear many Christians say they believe the same thing, their actions don't always support that saying.
"If we don't view life as a sacred gift, then we won't want children simply because we'll focus on the sacrifices (our bodies, sleep, and money) we would have to make based on selfish and worldly perspectives. When birth is under attack, life is under attack. It is like any slippery slope, and we the church need to keep our armor heavily outfitted in this battle so we can "extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one," (Eph. 6:16, NIV)" (39)
Another aspect that Mrs. Tolpin writes about is something that my husband and I have been saying for years.
"Satan does not want strong Christian couples having babies and raising them for the glory of God. The reality is that he will try his best to discourage you and make your experience one that you are not willing to experience again in order to bring forth life.
If we acknowledge this challenge and we proclaim the Holy Scriptures as we fight the good fight to live in faith and not fear we can overcome his attacks on the family and on marriage today. We can choose to allow God to redeem our hard situations for His good." (118)
She also addresses how we are told we should expect hardships. If we should expect them, why would we try to avoid them?
"As Christians, we are warned and encouraged to be prepared mentally for trials, to expect persecution for our faith. "Dear friends,
do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.
But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed," (1 Peter 4:12, 13, NIV, emphasis mine). We should not expect life to be easy or try to avoid it when it is hard, but instead look at the opportunity to learn more bout God, more about what Jesus endured for us. When we experience trials and pain, it will create in us a yearning for our heavenly home." (163)
There is a lot more in this book then just these topics that I addressed here, which is why I highly suggest women read this book whether they are currently pregnant or not. I truly believe that any woman will find encouragement and wisdom from Angie Tolpin's book.
