There are few times in a woman's life when anxiety is greater than leading up to the delivery of a new baby. The anticipation of new life is a wonderful blessing and God's Word offers hope and comfort, especially as we await a difficult, painful labor. May you find solace in these verses, as I have.
Scriptures
- Psalm 23
- Psalm 100
- John 14:1-3
- Eccleiastes 3:1-8
- Psalm 139:1-18
- Philippians 4:13
- Romans 8:18-39
- Romans 5:1-10
- Philippians 4:4-9
- Isaiah 40:28-31
- Psalm 46:1-7
- Psalms 127-128
- Isaiah 66:9-13
- John 16:20-24, 33
- Psalm 145:1-18
- Isaiah 43:1-7
Hymns
(When more than one melody is available, I usually prefer the minor key.)
- God's Own Child
- O Love How Deep
- My Hope is Built
- Out of the Depths I Cry to Thee
- Built on the Rock
- On My Heart
- Abide with Me
- Jesus, Priceless Treasure
- Take My Life
- Lord, Keep Us Steadfast
Other
- Prayers, such as the Litany, The Lord's Prayer (said or sung), or Luther's Evening Prayer (said or sung)
- Classical Music
- Use caution with "birth mantras" as many of them come from a humanistic worldview
Ideas for Using the List of Scriptures and Hymns
- If you are tech savvy (or know someone who is), make a CD. Read aloud and record the Scriptures. Play (or sing) and record the hymns, or purchase them here.) This can be really special keepsake with your own voice and that of your family. It could be played in the weeks leading up to labor, and during the labor and delivery itself.
- Read the text of the Scriptures and the hymns and meditate/journal about God's promises as you prepare for delivery.
- Have someone available to read and/or sing live while you labor (if you find it inspiring, not distracting).
- Note that incorporating Scripture/hymnody during delivery can not only be a comfort for Mom and Dad, but also a witness to your birth team about the hope you have in the Lord.
