3 Changes in America’s Pro-Life Trends

Posted on January 7, 2019 by Kathy Widenhouse

For You From The Word

Let love and faithfulness never leave you …then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. (Proverbs 3:3-4, NIV)

For You To Think About

Pro-life trends: newborn baby in basketA  report from the Guttmacher Institute reveals changes in America’s attitude towards life.

Public opinion has changed. In a 1996 Gallup poll, more than half of Americans self-identified as pro-choice, compared to 33% who claimed to be pro-life. By 2013, 48% of Americans identified themselves as pro-life, compared with 45% pro-choicers.

Laws have changed. State legislatures enacted 205 abortion restrictions from 2011 to 2013, contrasted with the 189 provisions enacted during the entire previous decade.

Leaders have changed. Recent elections brought changes to state legislatures by increasing the presence of pro-life lawmakers, particularly in southern states that have been historically dominated by those more hostile to abortion.

The data shows that in a faithful pursuit in the battle for life, life is winning.

For You To Pray

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for moving to change public attitude to be more in favor of life. Continue to transform hearts. Lead our legislators to make decisions that honor Your hand as the Author of life.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More Devotionals that Support Life

What Pro-Life Really Means

Your Prayers for Life Save Lives

Concerned Citizens Like You Make Up the Pro-Life Movement

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Massacre of the Innocents Then and Now

Posted on December 17, 2018 by Kathy Widenhouse

For You From The Word

Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under. (Matthew 2:16)

For You To Think About

crying womanKing Herod was angry. The Wise Men stopped at the palace just long enough to report that there was another king in the neighborhood. They’d made a long trip from the east to visit the new baby. Their drop-in to Herod’s was a mere formality. And afterwards, the Wise Men didn’t play along to keep him informed as to the baby’s whereabouts.

To Herod the information about the newborn was unexpected and unplanned, interfering with his campaign to maintain his control and position.

In order to potentially avoid the loss of his throne to a newborn, Herod ordered the execution of all male children under the age of two in the village of Bethlehem. The slaughter is known in history as the “Massacre of the Innocents.”

Today we have a whole different kind of “Massacre of the Innocents.”  To some, an unplanned pregnancy is unwelcome news that interferes with plans to maintain control and position – leading to termination.  On the other side of the spectrum, some pregnant women are not informed about their options – leading to heartbreaking loss of life through abortion.

How can we help people understand that a newborn offers opportunity, not a threat?

For You To Pray

Heavenly Father,
Move in hearts of pregnant women and their partners to choose life. Protect the unborn.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More about the Magi

Wise Men (and Women) Don’t Ignore the Obvious

The Magi’s Choice: an Open Heart

The Magi’s Royal Effort to Respect Life

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Born This Day: Every Child Has a God-Ordained Destiny

Posted on December 15, 2018 by Kathy Widenhouse

For You From The Word

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:11)

For You To Think About

mom and newborn babyA mother looks down at her newborn. What will that child become? During pregnancy and in the delivery room, there can be no way to fathom what the future holds for her baby.

Not so with Jesus.  Imagine the scene for Mary after her firstborn arrives:

“OK, Mom, here’s the deal. Your son is going to save the world. He is specially-anointed to deliver all the people who ever lived or will be born. And everyone will worship him.”

That’s pretty much what the angel announces in Luke 2:11: “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.”

Who can say what a child may contribute to our world? One baby will become a scientist who discovers a cure for HIV … a statesman who brings together shattered nations … a teacher who inspires hundreds of young people … a parent who raises a godly child … an evangelist who leads untold numbers into eternity … an employee who models hard work and commitment … a kind neighbor who demonstrates kindness in every action …

Jesus had a specific purpose. So does every child. How many parents would choose life if they could see what their child could contribute to the world?

For You To Pray

Heavenly Father,
Every child has a purpose ordained by You. Allow their parents to choose life … so their children can fulfill their destiny.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More About the Birth of Christ

Peace on Earth Is One-Sided – Thankfully

You May Not Be an Angel, But You Can Be a Messenger

Modern-Day Moms Need Mangers, Too

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Be a Hero: Modern-Day Moms Need Mangers, Too

Posted on December 9, 2018 by Kathy Widenhouse

For You From The Word

She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. (Luke 2:7)

For You To Think About

pregnant woman silhouetteToday’s romanticized accounts of Christ’s birth paint various versions of Joseph’s interaction with the Bethlehem innkeeper.

In some, the innkeeper is portrayed as harried and stressed, turning away the young couple with an irritated, “No vacancy.” Other adaptations depict a kind innkeeper as a generous caretaker who provides linen, food, lights, and the promise of midwife.

Problem: scripture does not mention an innkeeper.

Nevertheless, someone in Bethlehem pointed Joseph and Mary to the stable. The couple had no GPS and was traveling in an unfamiliar city. Through the ages that anonymous someone (maybe the innkeeper, maybe not) has been acknowledged as a hero, providing practical help for a pregnant woman in need. Mary was desperate. She needed a private place to labor and give birth. The unnamed guide pointed the way.

Likewise, pregnant women and their partners today often simply need practical help. Call it mangers for modern-day moms, whether it is food, transportation, shelter, access to medical care, or even maternity clothes.

When you come alongside these hurting people and provide resources, you’re a hero.

For You To Pray

Heavenly Father,
Move in God’s people to provide practical support for women and men who face an unplanned pregnancy.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More Ways to Encourage the Choice for Life

Two Ordinary People. One Extraordinary Act of Courage.

One Woman’s Choice for Survival

One Choice That Led a Legacy for Centuries

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Choosing Life: She Said Yes When She Had 3 Reasons to Say No

Posted on December 3, 2018 by Kathy Widenhouse

For You From The Word

Mary was greatly troubled … But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son.”
(Luke 1:29-31)

For You To Think About

Hispanic woman prayingA young fiancée discovered she was pregnant. She had at least three reasons she could have said “No” to life.

1. Pregnancy didn’t fit into her schedule. She was planning a wedding. How would she have time for a baby?
2. Pregnancy would drive away her future husband. He knew he was not the father. Someone had to be … and he would expect her to know who.
3. Pregnancy outside of marriage was punished. If community leaders discovered she was pregnant by a man other than her husband, she would be stoned.

Inconvenience. Rejection. Abuse. In spite of these overwhelming obstacles, Mary, the mother of Jesus, chose life.

Aren’t you glad she did?

For You To Pray

Lord of life,
Thank You that Mary chose life. Work in the hearts of pregnant women today. Move them to choose life, too. Provide support they need as they walk through an unplanned pregnancy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More about Choosing Life

Choosing Life: Mary’s Choice for Life

Choosing Life: Mary’s First Response and What She Did Next

Choosing Life: Mary Sought Out Support during Pregnancy

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Joseph’s First Response – and His Second One

Posted on November 27, 2018 by Kathy Widenhouse

For You From The Word

Because Joseph … did not want to expose Mary to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream.When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. (Matthew 1:19-20, 24)

For You To Think About

man with head in handWhen Joseph first heard that Mary was pregnant, he wanted out. The baby wasn’t his. Why stay?

The situation was especially distressing in Bible times, when women found to be pregnant out of wedlock were stoned to death.

Imagine Joseph’s heartbreak. The woman he was to marry was pregnant, but not by him. And it was likely she would die.

But the angel of the Lord confronted Joseph’s fear head on, giving Joseph another piece of information. The baby was fathered by the Holy Spirit.

It was at this point that Joseph modeled great faith. He accepted the pregnancy and his vital role in raising the Son of God.

A man who discovers that his partner faces an unplanned pregnancy may first react with fear. But will he stay that way? God can help him see an incredible opportunity in being a father – and give him what he needs to move forward.

For You To Pray

Heavenly Father,
Work in the hearts of men whose partners face an unplanned pregnancy.
Help them to make decisions that honor You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More Insight for Men

Christmas Choices: Joseph’s Choice

Joseph and Mary Were “The Least of These”

Joseph Made Plans in an Act of Love

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Two Ordinary People. One Extraordinary Story of Courage.

Posted on November 18, 2018 by Kathy Widenhouse

For You From The Word

Be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love. (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)

For You To Think About

“I value life in a different way than some,” says Jenae Holtzhafer, “As a result of my circumstances.”

1958 GMC bus: choosing life

1958 GMC bus

Jenae’s mother was a senior in high school  – a straight-A student, talented pianist, and skilled equestrian –  who put her dreams on hold when she discovered she was pregnant. Her father had recently graduated from high school. Family and friends urged them to abort.

“I’m only here because my parents chose life,” says Jenae.

They married and Jenae was born. What followed were eight very difficult years as they family lived in army tents, tiny apartments – even a 1958 GMC school bus (pictured above). Even so, Jenae succeeded at school. She went on to graduate from college. Today she is a happily married wife, mother, and photojournalist.

“Thank you, mom and dad for giving me the chance to prove what I could do. Thank you for your sacrifices and your tears,” says Jenae. “I love life and will strive to put it to good use — for that is why we’re here, isn’t it?”

For You To Pray

Loving Father,
Give those who face an unplanned pregnancy have the courage to choose life.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More Ordinary People Who Chose Life

Choosing Life: She Said “Yes” When She Had 3 Reasons to Say “No” to Life

Choosing Life: This Dad Had 2 Choices and Chose Life

Choosing Life: How One Anonymous Friend Helped a Young Couple Choose Life

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3 Great Reasons To Give Thanks

Posted on November 12, 2018 by Kathy Widenhouse

For You From The Word

Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. (1 Chronicles 16:8)

For You To Think About

Let’s give thanks to God for the victories being won in the fight for life!

3 reasons to give thanks in the fight for life1. The abortion rate in the U.S. has fallen in the last 20 years. In 1981 there were 29 abortions per 1,000 women. In contrast , in 2010 there were less than 20 abortions per 1,000 women. In Canada, the abortion rate has fallen 14% since 1997.

2. Fewer American teens are facing unplanned pregnancies. The U.S. teen birth rate declined 9% in 2010.

3. More Americans identify themselves as pro-life than pro-choice. Three consecutive polls have consistently documented a majority pro-life view among Americans , suggesting a true change in public opinion.

God is working His righteousness. In the midst of the battle for life, it is good to give thanks as He changes lives and hearts.

For You To Pray

Lord of life,
Continue to speak into the lives and hearts of Americans. Open their eyes to see that You are the Creator and that all life is valuable. Raise up more people who will stand for the cause of life.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More Reasons to Give Thanks in the Fight for Life

5 Facts That Prove We’re Winning to Pro-Life Battle

12% More Women Are Choosing Life

10 Reasons to Give Thanks in the Fight for Life

 

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No Two Adoption Plans Are Alike

Posted on November 2, 2018 by Kathy Widenhouse

For You From The Word

For the Lord gives wisdom and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. (Proverbs 2:6, NIV)

For You To Think About

How do birth parents reach the decision to make an adoption plan? No two situations are the same. There are as many approaches as there are birth parents.

Consider these stories from real-life birth mothers and birth fathers.

woman on swing, thinking and considering an adoption planJenna: I was 15 years old when I got pregnant. I had no idea what to do until the idea of adoption was presented to me. I was very uneasy at first but then I decided to look into it. It was the right choice for me.

Ruby: I was a 23-year-old single mother of a 2 year old chronically ill child when I found out that I was pregnant. I knew within weeks that I wanted to place my son for adoption because I could not care for him. It took me 4 months to find the right couple, but I did!

Betsy: I found out that I was pregnant and my first instinct was adoption. I truly believe that babies should be celebrated. Sadly, I wasn’t. So many people dream about having a child. I love my son and my choice.

Daryl: When I first found out my girlfriend was pregnant, I was happy. But then my girlfriend decided she was not able to handle being a mom. I wanted more for my son then I was giving him.

Each adoption is unique. There is no one-size-fits-all. We can stand by birth parents who face an unplanned pregnancy as they make their own one-of-a-kind decision by providing information, support, and resources – always asking God to fill them with His wisdom.

For You To Pray

Gracious Father,
Fill birth parents with Your wisdom. Help them to make the best decision for their children and themselves. Speak to them if Your desire for them is to consider adoption. Show me how I can provide emotional, spiritual, and practical support.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More About the Adoption Option

Tips for Presenting the Adoption Option

“Adoption Was a Serious Option for This Woman”

What Is the Adoption Triad?

Look for Opportunities to Present the Adoption Option in Conversation

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Sharing the Adoption Option Through Media

Posted on October 29, 2018 by Kathy Widenhouse

For You From The Word

We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard. (1 John 1:3)

For You To Think About

In a twist on media domination when communicating a woman’s choice, one organization offers hopeful, positive alternatives to abortion – with significant results.

Heroic Media adoption adHeroic Media draws on research to determine how to communicate most effectively with women facing an unplanned pregnancy, and then places positive, life-affirming media in 210 markets across the country. Over the last 8 years, the group has recorded up to a 20% reduction in abortion rates in those markets, tracked by calls to resource centers and abortion ratios to measure the impact of their messages.

Now the group is presenting the adoption option, too. Horizon’s newest video has been released during National Adoption Awareness Month as a way to encourage women facing unplanned pregnancies to consider adoption. The video spot shares the message that adoption is a loving choice that gives a birth parent the ability to choose a family for her baby and receive support throughout her pregnancy.

Fewer than 1% of women in an unplanned pregnancy choose adoption. “Most women don’t understand the feeling of empowerment adoption brings,” says Marissa Cope, Heroic Media’s Director of Marketing, Communications and Research. “We believe this video will alert women to a possibility they may not have yet considered and ultimately save the lives of unborn children.”

Media is a tool that can be used powerfully in the battle for life.

For You To Pray

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of media and the opportunity to use it in the battle for life. Touch minds and hearts of pregnant women as they see and hear about their options on video, on TV, and in print. Reveal Your truth and guide their choices.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More About the Adoption Option

No Two Adoption Plans Are Alike

Aborted Children Can’t Be Adopted

Adoption Awareness: You Don’t Need to Be a Perfect Parent

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