What Would I Tell a Family Considering Adoption?

Last night I was asked what I would tell a family considering adoption.  I don't know how articulate my answer was in that particular moment, but after thinking about it there are a few simple things I would say:

1.  You don't have to be perfect.
2.  You don't have to be rich.
3.  You just have to be willing.
4.  If you feel God tugging on your heart in the area of adoption then, with your spouse, prayerfully consider doing it.  God may want you to go through a season of preparation before you take that step, but be willing to ask Him, with an open heart, if this is what He's calling you to do.  He will answer you!
5.  Keep in mind that we tend to overthink things-- you don't have to have everything figured out before you take this step of faith-- and that's what it is, a step of faith.
6.  Don't forget the children who right now are languishing in orphanages or foster homes, deeply, intensely longing for a family to call their own.  Then ask yourself, why can't we give them one?
7.  Remember that you cannot solve the entire orphan crisis, but you can do something.  If God is not calling you to adopt, then what is He calling you to do to defend orphans?  Do it.  Take a step.  One small step can lead to another and another. 
8.  Ask yourself, "If not us, then who?"

"Learn to do good.  Seek justice.  Help the oppressed.  Defend the orphan.  Fight for the rights of widows."  --Isaiah 1:17