I recently read an article in our local newspaper that told of a new blood test that women can get to determine the gender of their baby before it is born.  The test can be done as early as seven weeks and is surprisingly accurate.

     Although this test is not readily available in the United States, it has been available on  line for several years.  The promise of early and accurate results has caused researchers to take a closer look at the test.

     This test could be a real breakthrough for women who have a family history of certain diseases.  It could allow them to avoid more invasive tests later on during their pregnancy.    If they learn that the fetus is of a gender not affected by the disease they can be saved from a lot of worry.  If they find that the fetus is at risk, they can determine to end the pregnancy.

     However, some researchers are concerned that this simple blood test will become an instrument for gender selection.  If a family only wanted a girl, they could choose to abort that fetus and try again later.  If they were wanting a boy, and found the baby to be a girl, they might come to the same conclusion.

     This is a “can of worms” that I had hoped we would never open, but now that it is,  what stance will Christians take?  In Psalm 139:13-16, we are told how fearfully and wonderfully we are made.  God knew us before we were born.  I believe He has a purpose and calling for each of us.  How can we say of any child, “You are the wrong sex!”?  How can we dare to challenge God in His infinite wisdom?  I believe we are all created in the image of God. (Genesis 1:26-28)  God does not make mistakes.

    Only God has the right to choose gender.  Only God has the right to choose mental and physical strengths and weaknesses.  Only God has the right to make us look whatever way we look.  When we begin to overtake God’s wisdom, we are looking for trouble.