The Gift of Infertility

ABSTRACT: Religious gender views influence expectations on the identity and purpose of women. Traditionalism teaches that the highest, sacred calling is to be a wife and mother. These portrayed admirable goals, but barrenness continues to result in confusion, doubt, shame, and a questioning God’s plan. This article began with the personal journey of the author from sadness to joy as she realized infertility was, in reality, a gift from God. Barrenness allowed her to experience and grasp God’s complete purpose, power, and promise. This testimony was shared to explain the effects of religious gender views. True peace was not found in rhetoric and theory, but through understanding and trusting in God’s design. Practical suggestions were provided to counsel and encourage other evangelical women discouraged by motherhood culture and point them to Christ. KEYWORDS: infertility, women, traditionalism, motherhood, identity, purpose, childre