The Bible teaches that being a friend to someone in need is a pretty big deal. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” John 15:13 shows us that, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Being a friend to someone means that we do what is necessary to help in their time of need.
Todd Gray
One group that needs a friend is un-born children in a state like Kentucky where legalized abortion is an option to terminate an unwanted pregnancy. Without a doubt, the circumstances surrounding the choice to end a life by aborting a baby are difficult. Any of us who hear the story of a mother who feels trapped to the point that abortion seems to be the only option would sympathize with her pain and want to help. However, taking away this baby’s right to life is not an acceptable option.
Kentucky Baptists are on the front end of an initiative called “Friends of Life KY” that has as a goal of seeing legalized abortion come to an end in the commonwealth. It is my personal belief that one day in the future, abortion will be viewed as the greatest human rights atrocity of our day. I believe that future generations will look back in amazement that more than 3,000 human beings were aborted in Kentucky each year and that those abortions were legal and defended by many.
How can you participate in the Friends of Life KY initiative?
1. Pray — Jesus said some things will not change but by prayer and fasting (Mark 9:29). Legalized abortion is so entrenched in the value system of many in our nation that the only way for it to ever be abolished is by a change of heart. Jesus is in the heart-changing business and we must pray for the Lord to change hearts as it relates to legalized abortion.
Sometimes God’s answer to our prayers amazes us. I prayed for the longest time that President Trump would be able to appoint one more Supreme Court justice, after he had already made two appointments, before his time in office ended. Even after praying this prayer daily for months, I was still amazed when Judge Amy Coney Barrett was confirmed to the court.
Please join me and others in praying daily that legalized abortion will be abolished in Kentucky and in the United States of America.
2. Educate Yourself — Any Christian who hears a detailed description of an abortion procedure will be shocked and saddened that such barbaric action is sanctioned and defended in our country. Take the time to learn more about abortion, how it takes place and which communities are targeted by abortion clinics. Listen to the first-hand stories of those who advocate for life and those who regret the irreversible choice of abortion.
3. Speak Out — Proverbs 31:9 requires that we speak up — use our voice — on behalf of those who are being oppressed. Unborn children being carried into an abortion clinic need our voice. Share your thoughts lovingly and with compassion. Reach out to your elected officials and let it be known that you are praying for them as they fight to end abortion in our state.
May the Lord use Kentucky Baptists to end the oppressive and inhumane practice of abortion in Kentucky.
Todd Gray is executive director-treasurer of the Kentucky Baptist Convention.
Todd Gray