Compassion over Insensitivity: What Not to Say to Couples Struggling with Infertility

Discover what not to say to couples struggling with infertility as a Christian author shares insights and biblical wisdom. Find comfort and support in this sensitive topic.

Infertility is a sensitive issue that affects millions of couples worldwide. It's a challenging journey that can be emotionally draining and psychologically exhausting. Unfortunately, many people often say insensitive things to couples struggling with infertility, which only adds to their pain and frustration. As a Christian author with great knowledge of the Bible, I want to share some of the things not to say to couples struggling with infertility, and what the Bible says about this issue.

1. "Just relax, and it will happen."

Relaxing is a good thing, but it won't cure infertility. When you tell a couple to relax, you're trivializing their pain and making them feel like they're doing something wrong. Infertility is a medical condition that requires treatment. As Christians, we should be compassionate and supportive, not dismissive. The Bible says in Romans 12:15, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." We should empathize with those who are struggling and offer them comfort and support.

2. "Why don't you just adopt?"

Adoption is a beautiful thing, but it's not a solution to infertility. Adoption is a personal choice that should be made by the couple, not imposed on them by others. Infertility is a medical condition that can be treated, and couples have the right to explore all their options before deciding to adopt. As Christians, we should respect the decision of the couple and offer them our support. The Bible says in Galatians 6:2, "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." We should be willing to help those who are struggling, not judge or pressure them.

3. "You're not getting any younger."

Age is a factor in fertility, but it's not the only factor. When you remind a couple of their age, you're making them feel like they're running out of time and adding to their anxiety. Infertility can happen at any age, and couples should seek medical help regardless of their age. As Christians, we should encourage and uplift those who are struggling, not discourage them. The Bible says in Isaiah 41:10, "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 with my righteous right hand." We should remind them that God is with them and will help them through this difficult time.

4. "Maybe it's God's will."

God is sovereign, and His will prevails, but infertility is not God's punishment or plan for anyone. Infertility is a result of a fallen world, and we live in a world where things are not perfect. As Christians, we should be careful not to attribute everything to God's will and offer comfort and support instead. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." We should comfort those who are struggling with infertility, not blame them or attribute their pain to God's will.

5. "Just be grateful for what you have."

Gratitude is essential, but it's not a cure for infertility. When you tell a couple to be grateful, you're trivializing their pain and making them feel guilty for wanting more. Infertility is a legitimate pain that requires empathy and support. As Christians, we should be grateful for what we have and compassionate towards those who are struggling. The Bible says in Colossians 3:12, "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience." We should show compassion and kindness towards those who are struggling with infertility.

Conclusion

Infertility is a challenging journey that requires empathy, support, and medical help. As Christians, we should be compassionate and supportive towards those who are struggling with infertility. We should avoid saying insensitive things that trivialize their pain or make them feel guilty. Instead, we should offer comfort and support and remind them of God's love and care. The Bible is full of stories of couples who struggled with infertility, such as Abraham and Sarah, Rachel and Jacob, and Elizabeth and Zechariah. These stories remind us that God is with us in our pain and that He can do the impossible.

FAQs

1. Is infertility a sin?
No, infertility is not a sin. It's a medical condition that can be treated with medical help.

2. Is adoption the only solution to infertility?
No, adoption is a personal choice that should be made by the couple. Infertility can be treated with medical help, and couples have the right to explore all their options.

3. Does God punish couples who struggle with infertility?
No, God does not punish anyone. Infertility is a result of a fallen world, and we live in a world where things are not perfect.

4. Can infertility be cured with prayer?
Prayer is essential, but infertility is a medical condition that requires medical help. Couples should seek medical help and pray for wisdom and guidance.

5. How can I support a friend who is struggling with infertility?
You can support your friend by listening to them, offering them your love and support, and avoiding saying insensitive things. You can also pray for them and offer practical help if needed.