You are in a place of worship, drinking in His strength and glory. In His generous love, you are really living! Psalm 63:2-3 MSG

What an amazing expression of God, so beautifully worded. This version is taken from The Message Bible. I thought it was particularly appropriate to speak over a developing. At this point in pregnancy a growing baby really does "drink in" and "breathe" the amniotic fluid, preparing her muscle and organ systems for life outside the womb.

During the later part of my pregnancy, I would sit for long periods of time and watch my belly rhythmically rise and fall with the little one's gentle breaths. The movement was subtle and if I wasn't very still, I would have never seen it. There are so many wonderful processes going on inside the womb, most of them go undetected. One of the motivations for this book, and especially this scripture, is to not overlook all the levels of development of an unborn baby.

Not only is this child "drinking in" her physical atmosphere, but she also is affected by the spiritual atmosphere around her. This verse talks about being in a "place of worship". We as mothers can have an active role in allowing our baby to experience this before she is born. When we enter into an attitude and heart of worship toward God, we drink in His strength and glory. This gives life to our spirit and in turn gives life to the life within.

I could pull out statistics from studies which prove a mother's "mood" does affect her unborn child. I could also quote scriptures about how God calls parents to be the gatekeepers of our children's spirit. I'll save those details for another time. For now, be encouraged and challenged to know: What you expose yourself to; you also expose your baby!

In Week 19, I explained the story about God telling me the "seed of Judah" was within me. What I now understand that to mean; though I would never say I fully understand it, is that God has placed praise deep within me. (The name Judah actually means praise.) During each of my pregnancies, I had the wonderful opportunity to be a part of our church's worship team. I have no doubt that every time I entered into worship when they were in my womb "seeds" of praise were planted in their spirits. And today, seeing my children freely sing and dance for the Lord is proof of this scripture.

Be intentional about worship. Experience His generous love. Receive His strength and glory. And then know that all of this does "cross the placenta"!

In your presence, Lord, is fullness of joy. Thank you for surrounding me with your love. Help me to take it in and allow it to sink to the depths of my spirit. As I let You nourish me and strengthen me, also fill my baby with this same glory.