Child Free: Season or Lifetime?
In the early years of our marriage, I just knew we would have children easily. We thought we would conceive and have children within the first 3-5 years of our marriage. But when that didn’t happen, it became apparent we were in for a long journey like no other. Our journey was filled with stress, frustration, and disappointment.
We prayed and believed God for children up until it was evident, it was not going to happen. One thing we didn’t do however; was ask God what His will was for us. Our will was to be parents to four children. God’s will for us was different. Walking this path has been difficult at times, but my faith in God has given me comfort.
If you are in a season of being child free, embrace and enjoy your life right now without the additional responsibility of caring for little ones. Pursue your dreams and passions. Take the time to travel, save money, go back to school, strengthen your marriage, and most importantly, become who God created you to be.
One thing I wish I hadn’t done was focus so much of my thoughts and time on trying to conceive. If you are in a child free season, my advice to you is:
Don’t waste your time charting cycles and ovulation patterns. This causes undue stress and actually hampers your ability to conceive.
Don’t allow bitterness and anger to enter your heart as you see others easily conceive and have healthy babies
Pray and have faith in God as you wait for the manifestation of your children.
Allow God’s perfect timing for children to occur.
Serve God and others while you wait.
For those of us who are child free for a lifetime, here is my advice to you:
Pray and ask God what are the next steps for you and your spouse.
Serve God and others.
Learn your spouse and strengthen your marriage.
Pray for those whom you know desire children.
Pour into the children you encounter.
One thing I have begun to do is to lift up those who desire children and are waiting on the manifestation of God’s promise. I pray for peace in their marriage, hearts, and minds. The journey to parenthood can be stressful at times when it doesn’t come easily and quickly.
Whether you are child free for a season or a lifetime, the one thread of advice that is consistent is service to God and others. It is what we are mandated to do while on the earth.
If you have questions or comments, feel free to email me at authortunisiawilliams@gmail.com.
All thoughts expressed in this blog are my own.
