By God’s plan, a child can become a cherished member of the family through adoption, and the family tree adds a small branch. That child is “grafted” into the family. But this new branch need not be viewed as inferior. A grafted branch can have just as much strength and bear just as much fruit as any other branch in the family. In fact, a tree full of grafted branches can have just as much strength and bear just as much fruit as any other family tree . . . maybe more. This is all according to God’s plan, and that is why those involved in adoption need to know God’s heart, for He says,

“I know the plans I have for you . . .
plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future.”
(Jeremiah 29:11)

Adoption is designed by God to meet the very real needs of those whom He created. “God sets the lonely in families”(Psalm 68:6). Adoption is often the highest expression of love because it reflects God’s relationship with all who accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. True Christians are “adopted” into the family of God.

“He predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ,
in accordance with his pleasure and will.” (Ephesians 1:5)

Common Questions:

Question: “My boyfriend and I are in high school, and I’m expecting a baby. He says he is not ready to get married, but he wants me to move in with him. What should I do?”

Answer: A boy who only wants to “play house” with you cannot provide the right kind of home for you and your baby. If he is not willing to marry you and if you would have difficulty providing for your child alone, ask if he would be willing to sign over his parental rights so that this child can be adopted by a loving, mature couple . . . a husband and a wife who can love and provide for a child. For both of you, this would be a true act of love for your baby.

“[Love] is not self-seeking” (1 Corinthians 13:5).

Question: “Although I’m sixteen, pregnant and not married. I feel I can handle raising my child. If I think I can do it, shouldn’t I?”

Answer: Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should do it. If you really are mature, you will choose what is best for your child. The best home for a child is one with . . .

• a two-parent home with both a father and a mother
• a loving, committed marriage
• a secure “nest” that provides time and finances for nurturing

Since you don’t have a mature, committed marriage, pray that your heart will be open to the option of adoption. The greatest expression of your love might be to allow your child to be raised by two parents who have earnestly prayed and prepared themselves to raise a child in their home. The Bible emphasizes the vital involvement of both parents.

“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching” (Proverbs 1:8).