Barren Lands

Just today, I was excited to speak with one of my friends from college. She and her husband are expecting their first child, a boy, due this July. Pregnancy and delivery are exciting time for most people, but I can only imagine what they are feeling.

You see, they tried for 4 years to conceive this child. They went through failed fertility treatments, miscarriages, and an amazing amount of doubt to get where they are right now. This time wasn't without it's frightening twist either. There were roller coasters of blood pressures, placenta previa, and sickness. I am happy to say, though, that things are looking great now. They are planning and hoping for a perfect delivery.

My heart goes out to the hundreds of women who fully relate to their story. I have been blessed with a beautiful son, and no matter what difficulties we face in conceiving again will put me in their shoes. I was the lucky one. I have a son.

There are so many women out there who want a child so badly that they would do just about anything to become a mother. Oh how I wish I could help them. I am not ready to be a surrogate mother or anything like that, but I see the way they look at children. I see the hurt and longing in their eyes, and just wish I had the perfect answer for their individual situations. I wish there was some magic wand that I could wave over them and fix their problems.

I take comfort in the only thing I can...God. I know that God holds the answers to our every question, and every desire. I take comfort in the story of Hannah. For years, Hannah prayed for a child, and finally, God granted it to her.

"I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord." And he worshiped the Lord there." 1 Samuel 27-28

Now let me just say this, I know that this will not solve all of the hurt women face when dealing with infertility. Please don't think that I am trying to patronize or be condescending. I am only offering encouragement. I pray that you will have the strength and determination of Hannah. Be faithful in prayer, diligent in the ways of righteousness, and patient, even when you don't think you can take anymore.

Pray for each other. Hold each other up. Lean on God...He will never leave you.