With all the advancements Eli has made in the last few weeks, we have heard so many encouraging messages from people. Watching the boy begin to eat, walk, run, play, talk, and so much more has been a shock to so many people. For a child that wasn’t supposed to do most of that to catch up within 9 weeks of being home is nothing short of miraculous.
While that’s exciting, Amanda and I have had some deep conversations as of late.
Is our adoption “successful” because he can walk? Would it be successful if he is an honor roll student? Would it be successful if he ends up being a good member of society?
I think it is easy for us to sigh a sigh of relief once some of our fears subside, but would our adoption be a success if he never walked? What if he could barely pass classes? What if he struggles with anger problems?
You know when I think our adoption became a success?
I think our adoption was a success the moment we said yes.
Outcome does not qualify success. Obedience qualifies success.
Travis Agnew serves as the Lead Pastor of Rocky Creek Church in Greenville, SC. His most recent book is Just (About) Married.
FACEBOOK IMPORT:
Travis Agnew Just a reminder today for you to be faithful: Outcome does not qualify success. Obedience qualifies success.
Yesterday at 1:50pm · Like ·
1 person ·
Jill Burretto Bryant Travis, you are speaking directly to me today. I needed that reminder – THANKS!!!! That is JUST what I needed!!
Yesterday at 1:52pm · Like ·
Jill Burretto Bryant Can I print this and share it with my husband?
Yesterday at 1:53pm · Like ·
Wendy Nichols Amen Travis…gotta share that quote!
Yesterday at 1:55pm · Like ·
Ashley Linne I can’t push that “like” button enough times. And I need a big “AMEN” button.
Yesterday at 2:01pm · Like ·
Jill Burretto Bryant Same here!!! I wonder sometimes if we did the right thing adopting (when things get REALLY tough) and if it was REALLY God telling us to do this. I needed this reminder – that our adoption was successful when we said YES! We went into this with the right heart, and we ADORE our son, even when it’s too hard for us to handle.
Yesterday at 2:10pm · Like ·
Travis Agnew Glad to hear it, Jill!
Yesterday at 2:18pm via Email Reply · Like ·
Travis Agnew Absolutely! Share away!
Yesterday at 2:20pm via Email Reply · Like ·
Travis Agnew Right on – Jesus went to the cross with JOY even though it was difficult!
We are called to do the same.
Yesterday at 3:17pm via Email Reply · Like ·
Jan LeBrun Oh yeah! God IS.
Yesterday at 3:49pm · Like ·