His Armor-Bearer

While my fiancé, Stephen, and I were dating, he told me he wanted a wife who would help him be found faithful before God. As he shared, I remembered what Jonathan’s armor-bearer said in 1 Samuel, and I shared with Stephen how I thought a wife should be able to say the same thing to her husband. That moment was a turning point. Stephen later said it was an answer to prayer. I had the armor-bearer’s words, 1 Samuel 14:7, engraved on his wedding ring to remind us of our commitment to support one another in our pursuit of Christ.

Our early years of marriage were messy. We were immature, selfish, and hurt each other often. But by God’s grace, we kept praying, apologizing, forgiving, and choosing love. Even when I didn’t feel like it, I wanted to support Stephen.

After our third child, I began feeling a strong desire to adopt. Stephen didn’t feel the same, and though I was disappointed, I surrendered the dream to God. Then came our fourth biological child, and adoption still lingered in my heart.

One winter day on a plane, Stephen read his Bible and clearly heard from God about adoption. He was certain this was God’s will—not mine imposed on him. I was overjoyed.

Over the next two years, we prayed, filled out paperwork, and prepared. I wanted to keep part of our future daughter’s Chinese name, while Stephen wanted a new name. One evening, he said, “Let’s name her Mia,” not knowing that it was also on my list and that it means “one” or “first” in Greek.

While in Israel, we received our first referral for a baby girl. I was excited, but Stephen did not feel peace. Reluctantly, I let go. Later, we received another referral—a girl named Yi. This time, we both had peace and moved forward. We soon discovered Yi was born the exact day God had spoken to Stephen on that plane in 2011. Her name also meant “one” or “first” in Chinese, just like Mia.

I’m still in awe of how God orchestrated everything. His guidance has been faithful in every season. Our story reminds me that the world needs more men supported by prayerful, faithful wives and that our trust must always rest in God, not in ourselves.

By Jill Kendrick

You can trust the Lord with the heart of your husband and the plans of your life.