For You From The Word
My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together. (Psalm 139:15, NIV)
For You To Think About
God’s hand moves in secret to create an unborn baby’s ears and hearing mechanism. Structural parts of the baby’s ears develop in the first 20 weeks in utero. Along the way – as early as 8 weeks, most often around 15 weeks – the baby first becomes able to recognize specific sounds. She can hear you!
But unlike other systems in the body, in order to develop properly the auditory system also requires outside stimulation. Your baby’s hearing sharpens when she is exposed to speech, music, and meaningful sounds from the environment – throughout the rest of pregnancy and up to 18 months of age. Inner ear hair cells become tuned to different frequencies, allowing the auditory system to distinguish pitch. Her hearing hones further when she is protected from continuous, loud background noise (especially low frequencies.)
In other words, a baby’s ability to hear does not develop passively, but rather interactively. God allows mothers and fathers the privilege of partnering with Him to build this ability in their children with stimulation, nurture, and protection.
For You To Pray
Heavenly Father,
You allow babies the ability to hear before they are born. Thank You for that miracle! Move in parents to care for their unborn and born children to ensure their healthy development.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
More about the Unborn
An Unborn Baby’s Journey, Part 1: Weeks 1-8