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

PRAYER THROUGH AND BEFORE FOSTERING

Prayer before and during fostering is crucial for this journey. I want to end this devotional with a prayer. Whether you read it quietly to yourself or allow me to speak it over you, my hope is that you hear God clearly and feel His peace fill your mind while His hand holds your heart.

Prayer:
“God, fostering is truly a calling that can bring anxieties, fears, and worries. We want to love a child deeply, but we also understand the risk of loving a child who may be hurting, afraid, and broken. We know there may be times when we have to let a child go after they’ve become part of our hearts. Lord, we acknowledge that this is a sacred calling; one You have entrusted to some of Your children to walk out in faith.

God, guide me, lead me, and prepare me. Lord, our life is about loving others as You do, and love always involves sacrifice. Heal me where it’s needed so I can be whole and ready to care for the child You place in my home. Teach me how to pray for them even before they arrive. Prepare my heart, my home, and my spirit for this journey. Bring people and resources into my life that will give me strength and encouragement when the calling feels heavy.

Lord, it is an honor to love a child You’ve entrusted to me. I know that in the midst of every challenge, You will provide strength, hope, provision, love, and community. You know what I need before I even ask (Matthew 6:8 ).

God, open my heart to the child, or children, you’ve called me to foster, regardless of age, race, or background. Help me to be led not by my flesh but by Your Spirit. Give me wisdom to discern when to say no and when to say yes.

Help me to walk in this calling with faith, trust, and hope. Thank You for allowing me to be an answered prayer for a hurting child. May my hands, feet, and heart reflect Your love, knowing You are holding me just as I am holding this child.

I love You, Father, and I pray that I will love the children You place in my care as deeply as You love me.

In Jesus name, Amen."