The Bible and Adoption

I have heard many Christians use the Bible to justify and/or explain their adoption choices.  Most often I hear that Jesus adopted us (Christians) as His children, and therefore, God loves adoption!!! 

It's not that simple.  And dare I say, it's not an accurate parallel.    "Adoption," as discussed in the Bible, is hardly the equal of adoption as we know it in modern society.    

I do believe the Bible speaks to adoptive families.   I have gone to my Bible many times searching for Truth and answers.    Because human hearts are, well, human hearts, it's very difficult for us in an emotionally-triggering situation, such as adoption, to differentiate between what WE want and what GOD wants.   

I got great advice from an adoptive mother once.   That if Christians would walk closely with God, seeking Him and His will, every step of the way, we'll be on the right path.   But we must yield to God's voice.   Easier said than done, especially when many adoptive couples have waited years, sometimes even decades, to become parents.  

I am no Bible scholar---just an everyday girl who loves God, loves her kids, and hopes that she's doing the right thing.  

All taken from the NIV Bible, here are some verses that have touched my heart. 

Proverbs 24:12
If you say, “But we knew nothing about this,”
does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?
Does not he who guards your life know it?
Will he not repay everyone according to what they have done?

Matthew 5:8
Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.

James 2:14-17
14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

James 1:5
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.


These verses encourage Christians to have a pure, wise heart, which is granted through God's grace. When we give our adoption journey to God, it will no doubt be guided and blessed. But when we stray, when we seek to make our own path, well, our decisions can alter the lives of many: the child, the biological mother and father, their family members, and our own family.

May God grant each of you the courage to do what is right and pure.