What Does The Bible Say About Adopting An Orphan?

There are many reasons why couples might choose to adopt an orphan. Some of them have the heart to help orphans even though they already have their own children, so they choose to adopt a child from an orphanage. You can also find couples unable to have children on their own, so they choose to adopt a child. For couples that are not able to have children of their own for a certain reason, adopting an orphan is a great opportunity for them. In fact, adopting an orphan is a blessing for both future parents and the child. 

When it comes to adopting an orphan, the Bible clearly favors such a concept. We can read a story in Exodus about a Jewish woman named Jochebed who bore a son when the Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, ordered all male Jews or Hebrews infants to be put to death (Exodus 1:15-22). Jochebed panicked and went to the river. She took a basket and placed the baby inside it. She then let go of him. As the river drifted the baby away from her, she wept. Then, miraculously, the baby was found by one of Pharaoh’s daughters. She retrieved the child and adopted the boy into the royal family. The royal family gave him a name; they named him Moses. This adopted child then became one of the most faithful and blessed servants of the Lord (Exodus 2:1-10). 

We can also find another adoption story in the book of Esther. Esther herself was adopted by her cousin after her parents died. Esther then became a queen, and God fulfilled His purpose with her and brought deliverance to the people of Israel. Jesus Christ Himself was adopted by Mary’s husband, Joseph (Matthew 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.). Jesus Christ was conceived through the power of the Holy Spirit, and Joseph did not hesitate to take up Jesus Christ as his own precious child. The Bible is clear about adopting an orphan and considers it favorable. 

Adopted Sons and Daughters

The truth is all Christians are adopted. If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and trust Him for your salvation, then you become an adopted son or daughter of God. You have now become a part of God’s family. Through adoption, we have become the heirs of God. In Romans 8:15, we read, “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” (ESV) And God did this by His own sovereign will and out of His love. In fact, God has predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of His will (Ephesians 1:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will). As you notice, our adoption has a purpose, and He adopts those who believe in His Son Jesus into the Spiritual Family. We ought to give thanks and praise. 

 

Regardless of whether it is a physical or spiritual adoption, one thing is true—the Bible favors it. What is amazing about adopting an orphan is that you are not only receiving a tremendous gift from the Lord, but you are also giving your adopted child an opportunity to become a child of God. You are also giving your adopted child a chance to become a blessing to his or her generation. This is why adopting an orphan is huge. It is special since this is the will of God. In James 1:27 we read, “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” (ESV) Adopting an orphan is one of the most faithful things that a Christian can do. Bear in mind that these orphans belong to God, and He loves them! Showing love to orphans is basically showing love to Jesus Christ. 

Becoming a Godly Parent

Adopting an orphan is definitely beyond words, and it is something that we Christians should celebrate. How amazing it would be to be able to nurture an orphan with the Word of God and see Him grow and develop in Jesus Christ. Adopting an orphan is more than just filling in what is absent or lacking; it is about obeying the will of God. If you are planning to adopt an orphan, it is essential that you pray and ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Bear in mind that there are commitments and responsibilities involved when adopting an orphan. You need to be very careful since you are accountable to God. Consider your resources, ask for provisions, be in agreement with your spouse, and pray unceasingly. Ask the Lord for wisdom, and it will surely be given to you (Matthew 7:7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:).