Known and Loved: A 4-Day Devotional for Adult Adoptees by Iris BryantSampel

God Knows Who I Am

“O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, And are acquainted with all my ways.” Psalm 139:1-3

Have you ever wanted to skip a doctor’s appointment simply because of the paperwork?

Sitting in the lobby, looking at the myriad of questions about the family's medical history can be a trigger for an adoptee.

I know it has been that way for me.

Looking at the endless questions and the boxes that span pages is mentally draining.

Growing frustrated, I drew a large “X” on each page and wrote “UNKNOWN” across the top of the medical history section. That single act was empowering, but there were still variables that I wanted to know the answer to.

When I visited my OB before the birth of my son, I cried as I clutched the clipboard across my chest...

During the office visit, I became overwhelmed as I considered the information that was a mystery to me.

I did not know my background and family history, and I suddenly felt a pang of grief as I thought about this new life I would soon bring into the world.

In my heart, I pondered so many unanswered questions.

My son is now twenty-one years old, and I have concluded that there will always be questions I do not have the answers to, but I have a personal relationship with the One who knows and understands it all.

That day holds several painful memories, but each one is contrasted when I consider the depth of the knowledge and wisdom of our omniscient Father.

Understand there is nothing about your life that is unknown or a mystery to Him.

Find comfort in knowing that during our times of uncertainty and fear, He is close to us and available to hear exactly what is on our hearts–even those silent longings.

Cry out to Him and allow Him to comfort your heart and bring peace to every situation that troubles you.

Respond: What areas of your life still seem unknown to you? Have you poured out your heart to God and asked Him to bring you peace—even if you never have all the answers? Write a prayer today, exposing the vulnerable parts of your story to our loving Father. Then sit quietly in His presence. Trust Him and rest in Him as you wait to hear His response.