Whether it’s a first pregnancy or a fifth, a complete shock and surprise, or a faithfully answered prayer, there is a truth that hangs above one’s head from the time the second line turns pink, until the first contractions start. The truth is: every pregnancy and every delivery is unique and different. This truth can be a shining hope of redemption or a looming cloud of unknown anticipation.
Filled with awe by the knowledge that the life dwelling inside of you is ever growing, and will soon see you face to face; the frequent daydream is interrupted by the memory of how this baby must come to see you face to face… an exit plan that tempts you to question God’s design. Though you create a birth plan, dreaming up your ideal experience and wishes, you finally conclude with the simple addition “healthy mama and healthy baby” knowing that while anything is possible, as long as you’re both healthy and safe all will be well.
If your imagination isn’t enough, the horror stories from the women around you are sure to encourage your fears and anxieties. It’s really quite easy to be overcome by constant dread and fear surrounding birth; not knowing when you’ll go into labor, how it will happen, whether it’ll be quick and furious or slow and drawn out, will you be able to manage the pain naturally or need an epidural? Is the needle for the epidural really that big? What is hard is to accept the lack of control we ultimately have in labor, and to trust that God is sovereignly in control. It is hard to submit our ways to His, but it is only when we do,that we can find peace and comfort in Him and in His omniscience, trusting that He knows exactly how our labors will go. From the exact time labor will start, to precisely how many contractions we will have and each event in-between. While anticipation and fear of the unknown attempt to suffocate you, remember that worry will not gain you control rather it costs you peace; however there is rest, joy and comfort found in the provision of our sovereign God.
