Social media has exploded with the historic news that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe v. Wade. People everywhere are praising God for this miraculous event - a remarkable answer to prayers that have circulated for half a century. Yet, you might find that you’re hesitant in joining the public celebration.
If so, please know you’re not alone. Many people, even Christ-followers, aren’t sure how to feel, so they choose to remain silent. If this describes you, I pray this article will meet you right where you are and encourage you today.
Here are four reasons you might not be publicly celebrating the overturning of Roe v. Wade:
1. You’re Not Sure What it Means Exactly
Depending on your age, Roe v. Wade might not be a topic that was addressed as you were growing up. Or, perhaps, you’ve never taken the time to research it and form your own opinion. Nevertheless, you’ve likely heard more about it recently, as the issue has been front-and-center.
In a nutshell, Roe v. Wade was a decision made by the Supreme Court in 1973 that determined the banning of abortion was unconstitutional. They further decided that a woman’s right to privacy included the option of abortion under the constitution. Of course, there’s much more to the story, and it’s worth reading for yourself, but the bottom line is that the Supreme Court has finally overturned that 50-year-old decision.
If you’re not exactly sure what this means, I encourage you to investigate it further. Pray for wisdom, believing God will give it. You don’t have to be an expert on the topic, but it’s important for Christians to know what they believe and why they believe it. More importantly, it’s imperative to know what God has to say about the life of the unborn.
A Prayer for Wisdom: Holy God, You are faithful and just. I look to You for wisdom regarding this historical decision today. Please, Lord, send the wisdom James wrote about in James 1:5 when he said, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” I trust You, Lord, in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.
2. You’re Afraid of Offending Friends and Family
I get it. You’re hesitant to cause waves on social media, and rightfully so. Sometimes, it’s best to remain silent when you know there are “hot buttons” within your friend and family circles. However, let me ask you this: Are you inwardly rejoicing at the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade? If so, is keeping it to yourself more beneficial than publicity declaring your support?
These are serious questions that deserve serious thought. Of course, no one says you have to post anything on social media. It’s always optional. However, what if your public support of the decision is an opportunity to share your faith and lead someone to Christ?
If you’re afraid of offending friends and family members, I encourage you to pray for God’s strength. It could be He is prompting you to “be strong and courageous,” as He prompted Joshua when He said, “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:7-9)
A Prayer for Courage: Lord God, is it Your will that I publicly celebrate the Supreme Court’s overruling of Roe v. Wade? Would posting on social media allow me to share my faith in Your Son, Jesus? Please help me know what to say and how to say it. Most of all, keep me within Your will and give me the courage to speak if You want me to speak. In Jesus’ holy name, amen.
3. Your Political Party Is against It
This topic is tough, as political tensions have been at an all-time high for quite some time. The last thing I want to do is create further division between political parties - especially for those within the Body of Christ.
If your chosen political party is against the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, you might not feel like you can publicly say anything good about it. After all, you’re likely involved in circles of people vehemently opposing it. If this is your predicament, please let me encourage you with a few thought-provoking questions.
- Do you align yourself more with political figures than with God and the Bible?
- Do you know what God says about the unborn?
- Can you step away from politics and investigate Roe v. Wade from a biblical standpoint?
Again, these are serious questions that involve a lot of prayer and consideration, and my biggest encouragement to you is to pray that God will make His Word clear. No matter what the agenda, God’s Word is the final authority.
A Prayer for Political Parties: Heavenly Father, You know better than anyone the divisions that exist between political lines. Unfortunately, these divisions have infiltrated Your people - the Church. Please forgive us for choosing to follow the world’s agenda over Your will. We need Your discernment in this and ask for clarity in Jesus’ powerful name, amen.
4. You or Someone You Know Has Had an Abortion
If there is any reason to be hesitant about publicly celebrating the overturning of Roe v. Wade, it’s to be empathetic towards those who’ve had an abortion. Whether it be a close friend or family member - or you, yourself - trying to remain compassionate is a kind thing to do.
In light of this, I encourage you to consider the amazing grace of God, who sent His Son as the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of the world. There isn’t anything beyond His mercy! As 1 John 1: 9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Could it be that God wants you to encourage someone with God’s forgiveness today? Is someone in your circle of influence hurting and in need of healing? I pray that this historical day will become a springboard for healthy discussions and decisions to move forward in the light of the Lord.
A Prayer for Those Who’ve Had Abortions: Dear God, thank You for Your amazing grace and mercy. We do not deserve such favor! In Your Son, Jesus, You provided a way back to You. Thank You so much for making the path clear. I pray for every woman who has had an abortion, that they will find forgiveness and healing within Your loving care. Help them know You love them and are ready to help them move forward. In the precious name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Photo credit: ©Dole/Unsplash
Jennifer Waddle is the author of several books, including Prayer WORRIER: Turning Every Worry into Powerful Prayer, and is a regular contributor for LifeWay, Crosswalk, Abide, and Christians Care International. Jennifer’s online ministry is EncouragementMama.com where you can find her books and sign up for her weekly post, Discouragement Doesn’t Win. She resides with her family near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains—her favorite place on earth.