“Can you believe it? The Smith’s are pregnant again!”

“That makes five. What are they thinking!?”

“I know. They can barely take care of the ones they already have.”

Does this conversation sound familiar? Perhaps you have been part of a similar conversation. At best these comments are well-meaning but misguided. At worst they are hypocritical coming from the mouth of a “pro-life” Christian. Let’s replay the conversation with a couple modifications:

“Can you believe it? The Smith’s are pregnant again!” 

“That makes five. What was God thinking!?”

“I know. They can barely take care of the ones He has already given them.”

We would never put it like that, would we? What do we communicate to those around us when we treat pregnancy like a nuisance or a burden? What does this kind of “baby talk” teach our children? Our opinions color the views of our children. When the subject of pregnancy comes up, we have a golden opportunity to teach God’s truths. The following examples are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg:

• Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one“s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. (Psalm 127:3-5)

God teaches us that children are not a burden but a blessing. Express your joy whether it’s a couple’s first child or fifth. Show your children that this is something truly special. “Thank you, Lord!”

• Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. (Psalm 51:5)

Although it defies human logic, children, even the unborn, are sinners in need of Savior. Take this time to share a lesson in God’s law with your children. An infant is not only helpless physically, but also spiritually.

• [Jesus] said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” (Mark 10:14)

Tell your children the beautiful gospel message. Let them know that even the youngest need forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Teach the importance of baptism. Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children. (Acts 2:38,39)

• You shall not commit adultery. (Exodus 20:14)

Perhaps a relative or friend has become pregnant outside of marriage. Your sanctified judgment and the age of your children dictates how much should be explained, but you’ll want be clear that sin is sin. God does not wink and pretend such things did not happen. He is a righteous God, and all sin carries with it dire consequences.

• You shall not murder. (Exodus 20:13)

If your children are old enough to understand, you should also want to make it clear that abortion is not the answer. Recognize that God is not the author of evil and does not condone this sin, but at the same time recognize that it is His gift of life that is developing in the womb. God expects us to protect that life.

• Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. (Romans 8:1,2)

The solution to the crisis pregnancy is to turn to Jesus. There is forgiveness in our crucified and risen Savior. Jesus willingly received the punishment for the sin of adultery along with all of our sins. Our holy God does not condemn sinners who put their trust in Jesus, our perfect Substitute. What a wonderful gospel message to share with your children!

• And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)

By faith, the Christian knows that God controls all happenings in their lives. We need this comfort when faced with a miscarriage or a child who is born with a birth defect. Teach your children that everything, even hardships, serve God’s purpose and work to benefit His children. Teach them the joy of reflecting God’s love by caring for those who have special needs. We may not always see the benefit of every situation on this side of heaven, but we take God at His word. Our Lord does all things well. He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all – how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? (Romans 8:32).

Don’t pass up the opportunity to teach your children about the sanctity of life. Let your “baby talk” reflect the truth that life is a gift from God:

“Can you believe it? The Smith’s are pregnant again!” 

“That makes five. What an amazing blessing!” 

“I know. God is good!”

---

By Mr. Tim Snyder, Media Services Coordinator for Wisconsin Lutheran College, Milwaukee, WI