The Spiritual Battle for the Most Vulnerable
As I engage with families considering adoption or those who have already walked this journey, I always highlight one crucial aspect: spiritual warfare. This may seem unexpected to some, but it’s essential to understand the conflict that arises when we care for the most vulnerable members of society – children.
Throughout the Bible, we see a recurring theme of the world’s forces clashing with children. From Pharaoh’s edict to kill Israelite children to Herod’s slaughter of the innocents in Bethlehem, it’s clear that children are often at the center of spiritual battles. Why is this? The devil knows that Jesus’ words are true: those who enter the kingdom of God do so as little children, embodying dependence, vulnerability, and newness of life.
A Battle Against the Principalities
We’re not just dealing with economic or sociological issues; we’re facing a battle against the principalities of power in the heavenly places. When we stand up for the vulnerable – widows, orphans, and children – we’re doing so because we know that the crisis around us has spiritual roots.
In his book, Russell Moore emphasizes the importance of adoption for all Christians, encouraging readers to lead the way in adoption and orphan advocacy out of our identity as adopted children of God. By caring for the vulnerable, we’re not only meeting physical needs but also engaging in a spiritual battle.
More Than Just Good Preparation
When families move toward caring for the vulnerable through adoption, foster care, or orphan care, they’ll inevitably face challenges that require more than just good preparation for parenting, a support system, or a safe home. They’ll need prayer, a church community, and an ongoing sense of the Spirit’s guidance.
Reflecting the Gospel
Adoption reflects the gospel to a watching world, demonstrating our commitment to caring for the most vulnerable. As we adopt and encourage a culture of adoption in our churches and communities, we’re picturing something that’s true about our God – His love, compassion, and desire to care for the least among us.
By understanding the spiritual battle that surrounds adoption and orphan care, we can better prepare ourselves and our communities to care for the most vulnerable members of society, reflecting the gospel to a world in need.
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