Written By Itoro E. Udofia
It’s been 40 years. This is the amount of time since the phrase “biological clock” was coined. In an article by Richard Cohen titled, “The Clock is Ticking for the Career Woman” published in the Washington Post on March 16, 1978 the challenges between pursuing a career and starting a family were explored. Since the introduction of the term, conversations about single women settling down well into their thirties has become commonplace.
Fear and anxiety have entered the hearts of women who are waiting for their season of marriage, navigating their career or pursuing goals in higher education. To put it simply this term “biological clock” has discretely shifted how we view maternal health and the journey towards motherhood.
How should single Christian women view their biological clock?
“Despite societal expectations or pressure from loved ones as a Christian woman your disposition regarding motherhood should embrace a kingdom perspective.”
1. Be a good steward of your time
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens”- Ecclesiastes 3:1
Use this time to develop emotionally, psychologically, and relationally. Who you are as a single woman will impact who you are as a wife and mother. This season of waiting is an opportunity to invest in yourself.
2. Be anchored in your faith
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” -Isaiah 26:3
Remind yourself of God’s faithfulness. The foundations of your faith should consistently be before you so that the character and nature of God keep you grounded. This season of waiting is an opportunity to establish a strong relationship with Christ.
Single women can come to terms with the desire of starting a family while pursuing their purpose by recognizing that their “biological clock” is at the mercy of a God who created all things.