Praying through Infertility (Book Review)

I don’t often talk about it publicly, but my husband and I went through years of infertility before our daughters were born. We’ve experienced three miscarriages, medical testing and treatments, several failed adoption attempts, and finally three successful though high risk pregnancies.

Infertility and pregnancy loss are profound struggles that can shake the very foundation of our hearts and minds. The grief, the longing, the unanswered questions—all these emotions can feel overwhelming. But in these moments of deep sorrow and confusion, we can find solace and strength in our Christian faith.

Praying through Infertility Book Review

I recently received a copy of Praying through Infertility: a 90-Day Devotional for Men and Women, compiled by Sheridan Voysey, for the purpose of my review. The book offers hope and healing through faith, which is something I also discovered in our journey. I believe it’s a message that should be shared so that others going through it don’t feel so alone.

You can watch the book trailer here:

The book is written for both men and women so that couples can go through it together. I wish that it had existed years ago when my husband and I were walking through that difficult season.

There are 40 contributors from 9 countries with a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and outcomes, which really drives home the point that this is not an isolated problem and you are not alone in your situation. These writers deeply understand the complex feelings and issues of infertility and speak with compassion because they have experienced it themselves.

The devotions within Praying through Infertility cover a gamut of emotions and responding with faith, including these major topic areas:

A Journey of Faith and Hope

When faced with the heartache of infertility or the devastation of pregnancy loss, it is natural to question why these painful experiences are part of our journey. It’s important to remember that we are not alone in our struggles. Throughout the Bible, we find stories of individuals who faced similar heartaches and found comfort in God’s promises.

Hannah, who wept bitterly for a child, found solace in prayer and ultimately rejoiced in the birth of Samuel (1 Samuel 1). Sarah, who laughed at the impossibility of bearing a child in her old age, witnessed the fulfillment of God’s promise with the birth of Isaac (Genesis 21). These stories remind us that God hears our prayers and understands our pain.

Leaning on God’s Promises

In times of struggle, we can draw strength from God’s promises. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” This verse is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, God has a plan for us—a plan filled with hope and a future.

Psalm 34:18 offers comfort in times of deep sorrow: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Knowing that God is near, especially when we are brokenhearted, can bring immense comfort and a sense of His presence during our most trying times.

The Power of Prayer and Community

Prayer is a lifeline in our journey through infertility and pregnancy loss. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

In addition to prayer, leaning on our Christian community can provide tremendous support. Sharing our struggles with trusted friends, family, or a faith-based support group can help alleviate the sense of isolation. Others can pray with us, offer words of encouragement, and simply be there to listen.

Praying through Infertility was written for this purpose — to give a voice to the community of Christians who are struggling with this.

Embracing God’s Timing

One of the most challenging aspects of dealing with infertility and pregnancy loss is embracing God’s timing. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Trusting in God’s perfect timing can be difficult, but it is in this waiting that our faith can grow deeper and stronger.

Finding Purpose in Pain

While it may be hard to see in the midst of our suffering, God can use our pain for a greater purpose. Romans 8:28 promises, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Through our trials, we can become a source of comfort and hope for others facing similar struggles. Our testimonies of faith and perseverance can shine a light in the darkness for those who feel lost. Praying through Infertility is a good example of this.

Holding Onto Hope

Ultimately, our hope lies in Jesus Christ. Revelation 21:4 offers a glimpse of the future where “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” This promise of eternal peace and joy can sustain us through our earthly trials.

Infertility and pregnancy loss are profound and painful experiences, but they do not define us. By relying on our Christian faith, we can navigate these difficult waters with a sense of hope, purpose, and strength. Let us lean into God’s promises, seek solace in prayer, and find support in our Christian community. In doing so, we can find peace in the midst of our struggles and emerge with a deeper, more resilient faith.

Whether you, a friend, or family member is experiencing infertility, I highly recommend the devotional Praying through Infertility to help along the way.

Praying through Infertility Book Giveaway

You can win your own copy of Praying through Infertility by entering the giveaway here:

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Sara

Author/Speaker/Consultant at Heart and Soul Homeschooling

Sara is a homeschool mom to 3 creative girls. She holds a degree in Social Work specializing in early childhood development, which led to her interest in individualized educational options like homeschooling. She believes that learning should be a lifelong adventure, not just a checklist to get through. She is a writer, avid reader, introvert (INFJ), and dreamer of dreams.