first of all
"God blessed them, saying: 'Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth.' " —Genesis 1:28
God's first words to humanity are: "Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth" (Gn 1:28). Catholics believe that God is almighty and all-loving. We believe that if God has commanded humanity to fill the earth, then He will also provide all the resources, food, and clothing that we need to obey His command.
In the last century, God's command to "be fertile and multiply" has been disbelieved and disobeyed more than perhaps at any other time in human history.The rampant use of artificial contraception, male and female sterilization, surgical and chemical abortions, the "pill," and other abortifacient methods by humanity screams clearly to God that we don't believe in His provisions and don't trust Him to care for us. So many see children as financial burdens, and wonder where the money, time, and energy will come from. What an insult to an almighty and all-loving God! Do we really even know Who He is anymore? (cf Jn 14:9)
When God gives a command, He gives the provision. Usually He doesn't supply what we need until we commit to Him in faith. Step out in faith. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence rely not" (Prv 3:5). God takes this seriously — that's why He first of all commands us to be fertile and multiply (Gn 1:28). Repent of not trusting God and defeating His plan for your life (Mk 7:9; Lk 7:30).
Prayer: Father, may I never disregard and set aside Your everlasting commandment to multiply. I refuse to follow the recent human tradition (Mk 7:8-9) of contraception in worldly marriage.
Promise: "God created man in His image; in the divine image He created him; male and female He created them." —Gn 1:27
Praise: St. Paul Miki and companions resisted ungodliness, trusted God completely, and were privileged to die as martyrs.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 3, 2006 & September 18, 2006
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