What makes a birth a Christian or a Christ-centered birth? Are we cursed to feel pain in childbirth? What about fear and pain? These are all good questions as you prepare and plan for the birth of your baby.
A Christian or Christ-centered birth does not mean the birth went perfectly smooth and no complications were involved. It does not mean that you used an epidural, or had a c-section, or did it “all-natural.” It does not mean that worship music was playing in the background or that there was a prayer meeting in the waiting room. It doesn't mean there was a total absence of fear. However, it does mean that God was present and working. It does mean that you were trusting Him. There is no criteria or list of requirements for a birth to be a Christian birth other than Christ Himself. It is God who created and designed the process of birth and it is He that promises to never leave us nor forsake us. It is He who gives us strength when we are weak and it is He who gives life. To have a Christian birth is to recognize that God is present, that He hears you when you call, and is working for your good. It is to trust Him to walk with you each step of the way. Yes, there may be worship music in the background and verses read or recited out loud, but it is Christ who makes a Christ-centered birth. The praise and the glory belong to Him.
What about the curse of pain in childbirth in Genesis 3:16? “To the woman he said, “I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children...” (Genesis 3:16a) Adam and Eve sinned against a Holy God and there were consequences for that. They became separated from the perfect fellowship they had with God, and now had sin in their hearts. This sinful nature has passed from parents to children ever since. Yes, because of sin our pain in childbearing has increased. I think it is important to see that it says in childbearing.,.not in labor. There is pain in every aspect of childbearing. Physical and emotional. Pain in childbearing goes beyond just the hours that a woman is in labor. Now, let's not stop there. The curse is not the end of the story. If we back up to verse 15, we find the very first promise of our Savior. The offspring or seed of the woman (Jesus) would crush Satan. God's plan of redemption would come to pass through many generations of women giving birth until eventually Jesus was born. Before God cursed Eve, He in His grace gave the hope of a Savior. Eve's biggest problem (and ours too) isn't pain in childbirth, it's that we are sinners separated from a Holy God. We have sinned against Him and we deserve His holy wrath to be poured out on us. We deserve death. But God in His love, made a way for salvation through Jesus Christ. “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.” (Ephesians 1:7-10) The pain we feel in childbearing points us to the hope of the gospel. One day Christ will return. “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)
So that's great, pain in childbearing points us to the gospel, but how does that help me through the pain of labor? What about my fears?
Pain in labor is“...an expected side effect of the normal labor process that lets women efficiently and effectively push their babies into the world. For this reason, labor pain is often called “pain with a purpose.”” (PCN) However, fear can increase pain. The Fear-Tension-Pain Cycle explains this: Fear produces tension, which produces pain, and pain can produce more fear thus creating a vicious cycle and increasing pain. Labor is painful, but there are many comfort measures and techniques that can help. Reducing fear plays a major role in managing labor pain. Reducing fear reduces pain. Who better to go to than our loving Father for help in this?
“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1-2)
God is with us always, He hears our cry for mercy and He gives us strength. He has perfectly designed the woman's body to carry and birth a baby. It is He who tells us, “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you by my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10) And, “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
Just like God did not leave us in our sin, He does not leave us to suffer through childbirth alone. He is our loving Abba, Father. Dear sister, I invite you to take a moment right now and cast your anxiety about your upcoming labor and birth on Him. Tell Him your worries, your fears, your hopes and dreams. Let Him meet you where you're at today. He loves you and He loves your baby deeply. Rest in His promises.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)
Resources:
Holy Bible, English Standard Version
Childbirth Without Fear by Grantly Dick-Read, M.D.
Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn by Penny Simpkin, Janet Whalley, Ann Keppler, Janelle Durham, April Bolding
Catharine is a birth doula and a stay home/homeschool mama of 4 (plus one on the way!). She has a passion for serving women on their motherhood journey. Catharine believes the memories surrounding birth are some of the most precious memories in a woman's life. How she is cared for during this precious and vulnerable time will make a big impact on her life. Each birth is unique and Catharine seeks to provide education and support so each mother can make informed decisions that are best for her. Her desire is that each mother can look back on her birth knowing she was loved and well cared for.
If you are looking for doula support for your birth journey please reach out!
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Disclaimer: This post is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, please discuss any questions or concerns with your provider.