Testimony of Healing October 31, 1988 Issue

When I first found out I was pregnant, I felt afraid of childbirth

Cheryl Ann McCarter Hoffman with contributions from R. Todd Hoffman

When I first found out I was pregnant, I felt afraid of childbirth. Gradually this fear gave way to faith in God's harmonious control. During the pregnancy I worked with a Christian Science practitioner. For his dedicated prayers I am very grateful. Also, the Bible, together with Science and Health and the other writings of Mrs. Eddy, was invaluable to me during that time. I felt completely well and continued all activities. The pregnancy proceeded very smoothly.

From my study of Christian Science I gained insights into the meaning of "the new birth." Miscellaneous Writings by Mrs. Eddy states (p. 15): "The new birth is not the work of a moment. It begins with moments, and goes on with years; moments of surrender to God, of childlike trust and joyful adoption of good; moments of self-abnegation, self-consecration, heaven-born hope, and spiritual love." Study also brought glimpses of God's joy in His spiritual creation. For all the spiritual truths I learned because of this experience, I am very grateful.

The birth was long and physically demanding, but I realized during labor that God had been with me always and He would not leave me now. During difficult times as well as easy times, God, good, remains and is in fact all. As I trusted in God's ever-presence and power, the birth took place. The child is healthy in all respects.

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