If you’re just joining us, click here to see what this prayer team is all about! While we are a “pro-life” prayer team, we, IN NO WAY, stand in judgment against those who have chosen abortion in the past! We hold you and your heart in the highest esteem and you are SO WELCOME here. Many women (and men) who’ve experienced abortion often hold onto the memory in silence, suppressing feelings of guilt, shame and grief for, quite often, years. If this describes you, and you would like more information on how to find hope and healing, please visit this site, or click on the “contact me” button above.
The Lord put the promotion of post-abortion healing ministry on my heart a couple of years ago, then had me start this prayer team last January…all as a woman with no experience with unplanned pregnancy or abortion. I’ve often wondered “why me, Lord?” Last week, I got my first real glimpse at why.
My unmarried daughter shared with me that she is pregnant…and that she never considered abortion.
I’m working through a lot of emotions, as the way this all came about is not what most parents hope for their children. However, as I’m processing this new reality, I’m able to do it with praise for a new life – a grandchild! While my daughter’s decision will carry with it a big responsibility, I believe it will be one she will never regret.
Since I began my involvement with this topic, the two of us have had several really good discussions about abortion which, to be honest, I’m not sure we would’ve otherwise had. I’ve been able to share why I believe the way I do, and talk about what I’ve learned about the aftermath of abortion. I haven’t asked her directly if these conversations shaped her thinking, but I do know that she possessed some really good information when she was faced with the decision herself.
So today, I encourage you to talk to the young women in your life. Find out what they think. Don’t assume they believe abortion is wrong because you do, or that you are protecting them by not discussing it. I promise you they’ve already heard about it and likely know someone who’s had one. If they are only hearing about abortion at school or from friends, they likely believe that a baby isn’t really a baby until anywhere from 12-20 weeks, which makes it “okay” to abort early on (I’ve heard this in a couple of conversations). I think this is one of the most pervasive lies out there, and if we don’t combat it with truth, we are, in a way, helping perpetuate it.
I’m so thankful for all of you and your commitment to pray and act on behalf of the unborn. I’ve asked you to speak out and use your voice before, but don’t forget the impact it can have in your own home or sphere of influence. It could save a life very close to you…trust me.
My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
Psalm 139:15-16 NIV
Father God, we come to You today – many believers, one voice – to stand for life. Lord, we thank You that You have given us the ability to speak and influence. Help us, as we work to bring truth to our world, to remember the ministries you’ve given us in our own homes and specific circles. Help us not to stay quiet on uncomfortable topics and, in the process, help further lies that damage lives. Open our hearts and mouths to tell others what You have to say about life…that life is life at that incredible moment of conception and that You know EVERY baby and have a plan for EVERY life, regardless of how they come to be. Believing You will change one heart for many, we pray in the MIGHTY, LIFE-GIVING NAME OF JESUS CHRIST, Amen.
As a follow up from last week’s post, the Senate voted in the Reid (pro-abortion) bill, 60-39.
I am so proud of my granddaughter for choosing life. This great grandmother, to be, will be praying with a heart full of love and thanksgiving for this new life. May the Lord fill our spirits with renewed energy to keep fighting this battle for the unborn. Praying in Texas. Mom
Melinda,
Your legacy is being displayed right before you eyes. Life, grace, forgiveness, and mercy!! What a legacy to leave for those who come behind you, my friend. Praying for your family.
Leah
Praising God that your daughter has chosen life and that you will be blessed with a new life! Praying for you and your whole family. (I love the comments from your Mom!…Looks like this little baby is already receiving lots of love and prayers!)
Amazing how God prepares our hearts, isn't it? May He continue to be at work in your family, Melinda!
Still praying with you for life…
Melinda, God overwhelms me with His love & faithfulness … How He prepares, provides & works all things for good (for His children). What an example of this in your ministry & family! Praising Him for this precious life that your daughter will bring forth… Praying.
April
i came across your blog in siestaville! (love that place)
i just wanted to let you know that i too found myself unwed and expecting….15.5 years ago!
if your daughter will allow God to work in her life, this will be the biggest blessing EVER!
the shame and humiliation i felt those years ago were some of the worst times i went through. the hardest thing i have ever done in my entire 37 years is tell my parents i was pregnant and then to let them know i was going it alone.
there is a place here in nw ark called 'loving choices' and they are a ministry dedicated to helping unwed expectant mothers choose life. i commend your prayer blog for the pro-life issue.
btw…i married a sweet guy almost 11 years ago and we had 2 more kids. after i had my first (even being single) i thought i would want 10 more someday! God showed up big in those years of pregnancy and single-motherhood…i just didn't see it until many years later and to this day He keeps revealing things that He had under control that i didn't even realize!
God bless you and God bless your daughter and coming grandchild!
Hi Melinda,
I've read your blog occasionally and always find your words to be so full of grace and compassion. I enjoyed meeting you when we did Me, Myself and Lies over the summer. Thank you so much for sharing your life and passion!
Blessings,
Sharon Watson
Another good word my friend!!
It was fun 1/2 way catching up today :). Let's try again!!
Already your new life experiences are making their way into the comforts & encouragements you're passing along. Many incredible things – blessings – arrive with this pregnancy, and will arrive in an even greater way with the new life that'll be yours to dote upon.
"Grandma" is such a lovely title.
Blessings,
Kathleen
Melinda…I love what Leah shared! She is SO right. You're legacy is being displayed…a beautiful life of His grace, His forgiveness and His mercy, all being shown through your obedience to Him! In a study called, "The way of Agape", there's a section in there speaking about how we should be "real" to other women. Real, meaning, the truth of our lives, so that others can truly see Him work through us. What a beautiful example of being His vessel through which His grace, forgiveness, mercy and love are all being lived!!
Thank you for being real! You are such a blessing to me!
Kelly
Ladies,
What a blessing you all are to me! Thank you for your support and encouragement!
Kelly: I'm so blessed by your visits and comments…thanks for coming out of "lurkdom" and saying hello…you have been a sweet balm to my spirit!
May you be blessed ten fold,
Melinda
Melinda:
A friend of mine went through what you are feeling with each of her two daughters. I claim those two grandsons as friends.
Yes, it has been hard on them but God has taken care of them.
I had often wondered what brought your heart to this place, besides the obvious for the life of the unborn child. Now I know it is serving a greater purpose. I can't wait to be a 'great-aunt' and love all in this sweet circle.
I love you CSF,
Lisa
Doesn't God just continue to amaze us?! Our vision of God is often the clearest in the fog of our issues – God certainly has worked in your life and your family's for his purpose and your faithfulness will find you blessed. I am proud of you and your family loving and supporting each other as you prepare to welcome this precious baby into your lives.
Isn't it amazing how he prepares us? It's just like Him, isn't it? God is good, all of the time.
I miss you my friend!!
Love,
Jen