As my due date quickly approaches, I’ve found myself feeling anxious about all the question marks of the labor and delivery process. How long will it last? What if I can’t handle the pain? Delivery complications? Will the birthing plan go out the window? But God does not want me to be anxious. He wants me to trust in Him and remember that He works all things together for the good of those who love him according to His purposes. (Romans 8:28).
In an effort to forgo my fears and use my time of waiting well, I’ve rounded up 10 Scriptures that point to the power I have available to me through Christ who gives me strength. I’ve been meditating on these for the last two weeks and I know the Holy Spirit will bring them to mind when I need them most – before, during and after the labor and delivery process.
Whether you’re expecting and have been experiencing the same anxious thoughts, or you have another unknown/difficult situation in front of you, I hope you will join me in bringing those cares to the Lord in prayer. Let’s prepare our hearts and minds to reflect the truth of who He is, instead of wallowing in our worry. We have a good God whose grace is sufficient and power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Cor. 12:9).
“The pain that you’ve been feeling can’t compare to the joy that’s coming.” – Romans 8:18
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in your weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
“Behold, God is my helper and the Lord is the upholder of my life.” – Psalm 54:4
“Is anyone a among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.” – James 5:13
“Fear not, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” – Psalm 73:26
“He gives strength to the weary and power to the weak.” – Isaiah 40:29
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. – Jeremiah 29:11
“From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you.” – Psalm 71:6
“But you, be strong and do not lose courage, for there is reward for you work.” – 2 Chronicles 15:7
These are wonderful. Thank you for sharing. I often look to music of all sorts, particularly religious music when I am anxious or scared. While music makes everything better, there is something about the songs I grew up singing in church with my classmates that ease pain and anxiety for me. My favorite is “Be Not Afraid” – the verse “Be Not Afraid, I go before you always, come follow me and I will give you rest”. As long as we have our faith, we are never alone and there isn’t anything that we cannot make our way through. I will pray that you and your little girl have a safe and healthy delivery. Take care!