These past few weeks, I have been struggling with fear and anxiety about making it full term. I foolishly turned to internet forums of other twin mom’s experiences, which only served to heighten my fears.
After much prayer, I bought a pregnancy devotional journal by Catherine Claire Larson. It has helped my perspective so much! I am resolved now to turn first to scripture, prayer, and worship to deal with my fears, before I research the “typical” stories. A good friend reminded me this brilliant quote:
“Statistics don’t apply to people who trust God.”
In other words, our God is so much bigger than the odds. And His plan for me and for these babies is not defined by statistical information.
I am being much more proactive now regarding my education about pregnancy, labor, and delivery. But ultimately, the best preparation I can subscribe to is the Holy Word of God.
As I continue down this journey to overcome fear regarding D-day (delivery day), I plan to memorize several verses of truth and encouragement. To start, I have these few:
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Jeremiah 29:11-13…For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
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2 Timothy 1:7…For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
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Isaiah 26:3…You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! [As I have mentioned before, this is also the verse my mother had memorized when she was bringing me into the world.]
I am open to suggestions! Which verses of courage and trust have you committed to memory?
The verses that have always uplifted me is Psalm 121 which reminds me that my help comes from the Lord. Fear and anxiety can either be debilitating or be turned and used in a positive way, encouraging faith in God and His hand in your life. At the same time don’t go into birth without fully equipping yourself about the basics of what it looks like. I wish I had known/watched The Business of Being Born and read Ina May Gaskin’s books before my first as it always helps to be prepared. You might also check out http://www.birthwithoutfearblog.com which has some beautiful stories about birth. God bless!
Psalm 34:4- I sought The Lord who answered me and delivered me from all my fears.
This is my go to verse when I am struggling with fear and anxiety.
In a side note, my friend had her twins a year ago and from what I remember she was just a few weeks early. So still in the safe zone. She is a woman after Gods heart as well. Hope that helps ease your mind a bit. 🙂
Jeremiah 29:11 has always been a favorite of mine! I also love Romans 12:2 ” Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” When I’m stressing I just think about taking a step back and “renewing my mind” by refocusing on the fact that I am ultimately not the one in control. 🙂