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It's Time to Walk the Walk - Part VI
As we continue to look at those issues that threaten our society, in this Studies I wish to cover the matter of abortion. Few of the individuals reading this need to be convinced as to the wrong that is found in the act of an abortion. Many of you are more knowledgeable in this arena than I. In some future Studies I may examine in greater detail the moral, spiritual, psychological, physical, legal, social, and historical ramifications of this issue. However, at this time I want to look at some of the positive things we can do to stem the tide and perhaps help save the lives of children in our society. First of all we need to teach our children the value of purity. Across the board churches and families have done an inadequate job of teaching children about human sexuality. Unfortunately, many have left the job to the school system which often teaches birth control from a secular humanistic perspective. Sexual promiscuity is not a new thing. In our nation, though, it is no longer frowned upon but glorified as the normal pattern for life. Too many of our children are experimenting with behaviors they are not mentally or emotionally prepared to handle. These behaviors result in unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, and emotional trauma, which may trouble their lives years into their futures. God knew what He was doing when He directed that sexual relationships are honorable in marriage and are sin outside of that institution. We must also be supportive of those women who are pregnant with an “unwanted” child. It is easy to sit back and criticize a woman for a poor decision, as if we have never made poor decisions. It is another matter to walk the walk and offer our support so she may be able to keep that child or offer that child for an adoption. The first effort takes a sharp tongue. The second effort requires sacrifice of purse, time, and constructive energy. Most communities have agencies that help prospective mothers with counseling, maternity clothes, transportation to and from doctors, and supplies for a newborn. Our time and treasure would be well used if we supported these agencies. For the parents who are reading this article, I need not tell you that the situation does not become easier with the arrival of mom and newborn from the hospital. Few new moms know the basics of infant care. An experienced mother can be of invaluable service for a novice mom. Feeding, changing diapers, and bathing at times are minor matters compared to sleepless nights. Giggling and cooing are often offset by a childhood illness. And now for a revelation… Moms even get sick! Keeping this in mind, the mother of a newborn may just need a break, a time to sleep, to go to the store, or a few minutes outside of the home. Experienced mothers can help by giving the overstressed novice the break she needs by watching her child. And finally, remember, abortion is not the unforgivable sin. We need
to be willing to help those women who have made that choice move on with
their lives. Help women who have chosen to have an abortion. You do not
have to agree with that decision to care for the person who made it. The
attitude Jesus took toward the woman at the well (See John 4) would be
a great model for all of us to follow in our dealings with other people.
(See Archives, Hopelessness to Hope.) Individuals are changed for the
better when they have tasted the Living Water.
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