GOD Is In Control

I am reminded once again how little control we have over circumstances and how God protects His own.

For medical reasons, a woman was being induced for labor. This was her 4th baby and she had normal births with her first 3. The induction process began very slowly and continued to just not progress - no matter what we did. As I told her and her husband, I pulled all my rabbits out of my hat and any other hat I could find. I consulted with my physician and 2 other midwives for ideas, suggestions and advice. Nothing was working and we just had no explanation for her body not "getting the message" that we were asking it to start labor. So, after 2 1/2 days of trial and failure, and eventually signs from her baby that she was ready to be born, we proceeded with cesarean birth.

I was extremely frustrated during this time of induction for many reasons, but mainly because I could not understand what was wrong. Why her body, which had labored and delivered 3 babies in the past, did not cooperate with our efforts. Several hours before we went to surgery, I had to let go of my frustration and tell myself over and over that this is in God's hands. I finally prayed about it, felt peace about the outcome (whatever that would be) and proceeded to walk along the path with this family. In discussing the cesarean, I shared with this family that some things are completely out of our hands (despite all we think we know in medicine) and that sometimes God just has other plans for our births. Many times we find with the cesarean an explanation for why we ended up there instead of a vaginal birth but sometimes not. I always hope for an explanation because that helps me process everything that happens. I also shared my belief that God is in control of these circumstances and that sometimes He just doesn't let things happen for a reason. We may or may not ever know that reason, but I trust that it is in His control.

In this instance, we did find some very good reasons why her body never labored. I am so thankful to God for keeping control of this situation and keeping this mama and baby out of harm. I am also very thankful for reminders of His presence in my life, by giving me peace in the midst of an inner storm, and for helping me to trust Him more even in my uncertainty. I don't know why instances like this amaze me every time they happen. You would think I would remember how He has worked in the past and just rest in His wisdom, but that is less often the case. I think this is why it is so important to tell and retell all the great things that God has done-it keeps it fresh on our minds so that we don't forget or get distracted by our doubts. I never want to cease to be amazed by God, (and I can't imagine that happening), but I do aspire to rest more in His timing, His control, and His wisdom. It is infinitely greater than anything I will ever obtain!