A year ago, after years of trying for a second child, I finally tested positive. I asked the Lord for a name, and I felt impressed to name the child Benaiah, which means “built by the Lord”, inspired by Isaiah 28:16 and 1 Peter 2:6 about Christ as the chief cornerstone.
However, during our first ultrasound scan, we discovered there was no heartbeat and no foetal pole. We had to undergo a medically induced miscarriage for the empty gestational sac two weeks later. I was shocked, confused and deeply disappointed.
During that season, there was one Sunday when Pastor Prince preached on Psalm 118:8: “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” Verse 22 of the same psalm speaks of Christ as the cornerstone, and I could not stop weeping. A few days later, at a server's ministry night, Pastor Gabriel mentioned that Benaiah was a good name. I broke down in tears once again. I felt the Lord's reassurance and experienced His tangible comfort.
During that period, I also met a leader and his wife, whom I knew had suffered a miscarriage but conceived again a month later. Their testimony brought me great comfort and reminded me that no matter what happens, God remains in control.
Through this ordeal, our family grew closer. My husband and daughter would pray and lay hands on my belly. A few months later, I conceived again, even though we were not actively trying. When I learnt that I was expecting a boy, we decided to name him Benaiah, believing that he would be built by the Lord, fearfully and wonderfully made.
On the morning of my delivery, I took my time to shower and pack my hospital bags as I was not sure whether the contractions I was feeling were true labour contractions. When I arrived at the hospital, I was immediately sent to the delivery ward.
When the senior nurse asked if I wanted any pain relief, I told her I was okay. She replied, “Wow, very good, mummy. You're very steady—no need for an epidural. How about I give you some laughing gas?” At that moment, I knew it was the Lord. When I had my firstborn, I experienced so much pain. This time, in less than half an hour of active labour, with no screaming involved, my son, Benaiah, was born healthy and well.
Our baby's delivery date also qualified us for the enhanced maternity and paternity benefits introduced in Singapore. What amazing timing!
Thank You, Jesus, for Your restoration and perfect timing. All glory be to God!
A sister from Singapore
