Faith, Fear, and Fostering: Answering the Call to Fosterنموونە

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

As I mentioned earlier, I can’t remember exactly what sparked my desire to foster and adopt. But as time went on, especially when my husband and I began taking classes; I started to reflect on my intentions and question whether my heart was in the right place.

Foster and adoption classes are very honest about the realities of children in their care. Much of the training focuses on preparing you for the trauma, abuse, or neglect these children may have experienced. Real stories are shared in class: stories that will both break your heart and make you pause to consider the weight of this calling. Sometimes, they even make you question if you’re truly ready.

Though I can't remember what sparked my desire, but I do remember the first time I ever brought up fostering and adoption. At the time, my husband and I had just experienced a devastating loss. Our baby was birthed stillborn at five months. In my grief, I told him I wanted to foster and adopt. He immediately dismissed the idea, and though I was deeply disappointed in that moment, I now see wisdom in his response.

Looking back, I realize my desire, though pure in intention, was coming from a place of pain. I longed to fill the empty space in my life. My heart wanted to give and receive love, but my focus was inward.

Fostering children has to be a selfless act

It’s natural to love children and want them in your home, but the why matters. Your purpose must be rooted in helping and loving a child in need; not simply fulfilling your own longing.

This is vital because you have no idea what challenges you may face with the child placed in your care. In those difficult moments; when frustration rises, when your patience wears thin, it’s the knowledge that God called you to this work that will sustain you. That selfless intention will remind you to love even when it’s hard, to extend grace when you feel overwhelmed, and to persevere when progress feels slow.

That security in God’s calling gives you the strength to keep going. Why? Because when God calls you, He also equips you.

Before you begin this journey, take time to reflect on your why. Ask yourself honestly: Am I doing this to meet my own needs or to be the hands and feet of Jesus to a fatherless child?

When your answer is rooted in selflessness and trust in God, you will be able to withstand the storms and embrace the beauty of this sacred calling.