"Orphan Care is Warfare"

"Have you ever wondered why there are so many fatherless children in the world? This is a spiritual matter. The world is not as it should be because of the fall. And why is it so hard to adopt? Could it be that there are spiritual forces involved? We aren't just dealing with ineffective governmental systems, we are engaging in spiritual war. You will face numerous trials in the adoption and orphan care journey, both in country and out of country. 'Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.'" (Eph 6:11)
(from Orphanology by Merida and Morton)

My heart goes out to families we know who are having difficulties on the adoption road. Some have waited ridiculous amounts of time for the next step in the process. Some have already met their children, but haven't been able to bring them home. Many are dealing with the anger and grief of an adopted child which often includes very little sleep for the new child and the parents (and we can all agree that you can handle most things if you're getting enough sleep, but without sleep...watch out!). The above quote is a great reminder that this is a spiritual battle. When you choose to adopt or take part in any orphan care ministry, you are answering the call of God in James 1:27 and Satan does not like that. He will fight you and you need to be prepared.
Many of you are weary. You are tired of being buried in paperwork, tired of waiting for a government agency to make a decision, tired of having a child you love so desperately be unwilling to receive your love. Do not give up hope for, "He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." (1 Jn 4:4)