Always in the repertoire of comedy movies and shows is a skit of the ill prepared dad being handed a baby. He holds it either as if it will break into a thousand pieces, or at arms length, hanging like a garment just sprayed by a skunk. It plays upon the old adage, men have “no idea” how to care for babies. And while it can’t be argued that God gifted women with a spirit of adeptness for child care, both men and women are necessary components within His design to grow children into happy, well adjusted adults. But the old comedy line plays upon an underlying feeling that sits under our skin waiting for the opportunity to reveal itself. When the struggle, or even the thought of struggle, presents itself in the scenario of child rearing, the feeling breaks the surface and we say to ourselves, “A baby? I don’t know how to take care of a child. I have no idea what I’m doing.” 

    When my children try something new and want to give up before they even start, often the reason is they feel like they don’t know what they are doing. But, when starting something new, who does? Having a baby is no different! It is important to read, study, go to classes, or spend time caring for other’s children, but you will still arrive at the birth of your child feeling ill prepared. Feelings aren’t fact. The truth is, we don’t need to know what we are doing. What we do need to know is the One who will get us through. God’s grace is good and He will walk with us in the journey of caring for our children. As long as He knows what He is doing (and He does) we are in the right place.