Unexpected Pregnancy? There’s Hope and a Future for You
Are you facing an unexpected pregnancy or know of someone who is? Today you will find inspiration and support in this incredible journey.
The year was 1986. While the world watched the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster unfold and Top Gun soared across theater screens, seventeen-year-old Lisa Steven faced her own life-changing moment—an unexpected pregnancy test that would alter the course of her life forever. But what began as a crisis would eventually transform into a calling that would impact thousands of young mothers.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).
From Broken to Blessed
Growing up in a tumultuous household marked by fighting and tragedy, including the devastating loss of her younger brother, Lisa’s early years hardly seemed like the foundation for a story of hope. Yet God was writing a different narrative—one that would prove that our beginnings don’t determine our endings.
The Reality of Teen Pregnancy Today
The landscape of teen pregnancy has changed dramatically since 1986, yet the emotional and spiritual challenges remain constant. Current statistics show that approximately 85% of teen pregnancies are unplanned, and many young mothers face their journey alone. Unlike Lisa’s story, which included supportive in-laws and marriage to her boyfriend John, today’s teen mothers often navigate single parenthood in an increasingly complex world.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).
The Power of Godly Response
One of the most striking elements of Lisa’s story is the response of her future in-laws to the news of her pregnancy. In a moment when condemnation could have severed relationships, they chose grace. Their calm, solution-focused approach – “How are we going to make this work?” – demonstrates the transformative power of Christ-like love in crisis situations.
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).
God’s Heart for Young Mothers
Lisa’s experience led her to a profound understanding of God’s special concern for teen mothers, whom she describes as modern-day “widows and orphans.” Many face their journey without family support or partner involvement, making them particularly vulnerable and close to God’s heart.
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress” (James 1:27).
Practical Support for Today’s Teen Moms
Drawing from Lisa’s journey and subsequent ministry through Hope House Colorado, here are essential ways to support young mothers:
Create Safe Spaces
Teen mothers need environments where they can be authentic without fear of judgment. Churches and community organizations can establish support groups specifically designed for young mothers, offering both practical and emotional support.
Provide Mentorship Opportunities
Connecting young mothers with mature Christian women who can offer guidance, support, and friendship is crucial. These relationships often become lifelines of hope and practical wisdom.
Offer Educational Support
Many teen mothers struggle to complete their education. Providing tutoring, childcare, or financial assistance for education can make a significant difference in their long-term success.
Build Community Connections
Young mothers need to know they’re not alone. Organizations like Teen MOPS (now MONCO) and Young Lives provide crucial support networks that can help teen moms thrive rather than just survive.
The Message Every Mother Needs to Hear
Perhaps the most powerful truth Lisa shares is this: “God chose you to be the mother of your child.” This message resonates not just with teen mothers, but with every parent who has ever doubted their adequacy. Even when the timing seems wrong or the circumstances aren’t ideal, God doesn’t make mistakes in choosing parents for children.
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart” (Jeremiah 1:5).
Hope for the Journey
For teen mothers reading this today, know that your story isn’t over – it’s just beginning. Whether you’re surrounded by support or feeling alone, God sees you, loves you, and has a purpose for both you and your child. There are people and organizations ready to walk alongside you, offering the practical and emotional support you need.
“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” (Romans 8:28).
Moving Forward in Faith
Lisa’s journey from teen mom to founder of Hope House Colorado demonstrates how God can transform our challenges into channels of blessing for others. Her story reminds us that no circumstance is beyond God’s redemptive power and that every life stage – even the unexpected ones – can become stepping stones to purpose.
If you’re a teen mom or know someone who is, remember that help is available. Organizations like Hope House Colorado (hopehousecolorado.org) stand ready to offer support, community, and, most importantly, hope for the journey ahead.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).