Preparing to Parent: Overcoming Anxiety 

Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org

Scripture
"You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!" Isaiah 26:3 NIV

Thoughts for Today

The nine months of pregnancy are a time of preparation. The physical preparations like picking out names and furnishing a nursery might be exciting, but the most important preparation is emotional and spiritual. This is the time to consolidate your attitudes toward your pregnancy and toward child-rearing.

Emotional preparation should include taking steps to reduce anxiety and tension in your life. These stressful emotions are communicated to your unborn infant. When a mother's stress hormones become elevated, the baby may become agitated.

Consider This ...

In order to reduce your stress level, you may need to cut back on some present commitments. Take 30 to 60 minutes daily for yourself with no plans, no work. Just read, pray and rest. Listen to soothing music. Soft music has been shown to have a calming effect on both mother and baby.

Do you have fears concerning your pregnancy and childbirth? Discuss your concerns with a friend who has had a good experience in giving birth. Get educated by reading books and searching the Internet. Be sure to explore some of the excellent Christian books on the subject. Discuss any questions with your doctor.

Prayer

Father, I have felt anxious about all that is happening. Help me to use wisdom in my day-to-day activities. I do trust you. Help me to trust you more and to keep my mind fixed on you. And I thank you for the peace that you have promised.

In Jesus' name ...

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©Living Free 2020. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day® devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN, www.LivingFree.org. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending an e-mail to info@LivingFree.org