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It feels like a long time since I actually finished a book. Usually, I will start one, read a little, and then pick it back up to finish it months later. But now I’ve finished one and I want to share my thoughts, and my recommendation, with you. “Labor with Hope” by Gloria Furman is a wonderful book for any Christian mom or soon-to-be mom.
This book is a refreshing look on labor and childbirth in the Bible. Let’s jump in!
Bible Based Hope
What really encouraged me while reading through “Labor with Hope” is that Furman always points you back to Scripture. Each chapter is founded on a selected passage and as she delves into the content, she continues to refer back to the Bible.
The Bible should be the basis on which we form our standards for all of life, motherhood included (2 Timothy 3:16). So I really appreciated this aspect of her book.
She helps you connect what you are experiencing and feeling as a mom with the Bible, and I’m so grateful.
Known Territory
“Labor with Hope” is a book about known territory for every mom. Furman includes all moms, whether you gave birth naturally, induced, miscarried, or adopted, you are included in this book.
But Furman, then takes it a step further. She explains concepts that are known to every mom (waiting, disciplining, hoping), and points us directly to those same concepts in our Savior.
Furman says, “Every aspect of motherhood serves to fuel our worship of Jesus. We take our eyes off of ourselves and look through the shadows to the substance, who is Christ.” pg. 65
Personally
In many ways, “Labor with Hope” has expanded my view of God’s character. But the most pivotal for me was seeing God’s character as our Father and His deep love for us.
There’s so much in the Bible that shows how God cares for us. And Furman poignantly points out that God has gone through pain, suffering, and death, all to bring us new life. For us to be reborn into fellowship with Him.
When I became a mom, I thought often about how my motherhood made me think of how God must feel toward me. Not that God is a mom, but that He is our parent, our Father. And as such He has always loved us and planned to make us His own even before we were born. He is the greatest father we will ever have.
And through that new insight into God’s character, I was encouraged in my own mothering. To love my family more deeply, to go through pain for them, to discipline consistently, to do the hard things.
Conclusion
“Labor with Hope” was truly a joy to read and I think it will remain on my bookshelf for quite some time, especially if we are blessed with another pregnancy. All the lessons enclosed are worth your time (and the effort it takes to make the time to read it!). So pick up your copy and start reading. Let me know what you think in the comments below!
Buy the book!
Related Posts:
Losing a Little One | Miscarriage
My All-Natural Birth Story | Aletheia Jane
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