A Large Family as a Witness & Ministry
by Mrs. Traci Knoppe
Is your large family being a good witness and ministry? When you go to the store, are your children well behaved and polite? Is everyone neatly dressed, hair combed and shoes tied? Is mom showing signs of wear and tear by her looks and/or her demeanor, or is she pleasant, relaxed and looking her best?
Parenting is an awesome responsibility. Parenting several children can be a tiring, daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, it should be a witness to others and a ministry of God’s faithfulness.
I think one of the things opponants to large families feel, is that it can’t be done. There isn’t enough time to take care of everyone properly. They often can’t ‘handle’ their own one or two children, so the thought of more is overwhelming. It is imperative that Christian families properly train their children and make a presentable appearance when out in public. You don’t necessarily have to wear your Sunday best to the grocery store or Walmart, but take some time to look decent - as most definitely others will be watching. Why would anyone want the blessings of many children if the only examples they see are unruly children, disheveled and weary looking families?!
Witnessing as a Ministry: How do you respond when the inevitable questions are asked when you’re in public - you know the ones: “Are they all yours?”; “Don’t you know what causes that?”; “I couldn’t handle that many children!”; “I’m glad it’s you and not me!” and so on. What is your response? Do you ignore them, give them a rude look or try to defend yourself? Does your response bring glory to God? It may help to have some set responses memorized ahead of time. 
Also, don’t always assume that someone inquiring about your family is being negative about it,sometimes people don’t know how to approach the subject of many children and can appear rude, when in fact, they are seeking answers!!! I have found that in most situations, a quick, polite response is best. I don’t go into my convictions in detail.
Calling Cards: Some of you may be familiar with the Victorian tradition of calling cards. It used to be that if you visited someone’s home, you left your calling card on the table near the door. Not unlike business cards, calling cards have your name and perhaps your contact information on them as well. Perhaps printing off some calling cards for your family for handing out to those you meet while out in public can be a way to minister. These could be used for those who have sincere questions about a large family and have asked for more information regarding your convictions. This would allow them to contact you at a later time to inquire further. Of course, if you are not comfortable giving out your personal information, I understand - get their contact information instead! But having calling cards at the ready, is a great way to witness to those genuinely interested.
Training & Prayer: Children training is essential in any family. Specific training is needed for how to behave in public and how to respond to unique questions and/or situations that may arise from public response to a large family. Train ahead of time!!! Also, it may be wise to remind the children, prior to leaving home, of what behavior is expected. If you need child training help, I have some articles available that may help you.
Prayer is also essential. Before you leave your home, have prayer time. Pray that your family will be a good witness, that your behaviors and attitudes will be pleasing to God.
So go forth into the world and let your lights shine!
Learn More About Large Christian Families and the Quiverful Movement
The Duggars: 20 and Counting!: Raising One of America’s Largest Families–How they Do It
A Full Quiver : Family Planning and the Lordship of Christ
Does the Birth Control Pill Cause Abortions?
Ten P’s in a Pod : A Million-Mile Journal of the Arnold Pent Family
It Takes a Family: Conservatism and the Common Good
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[...] The question is: would America watch, listen and learn. The Duggar’s certainly get their fair share of press, and America tunes in to watch – is there enough interest for more than that? I get a ton of hits every day on this web site alone for the search term “quiverful” or “large Christian families” or derivative of that; why is that, if folks are not seeking answers, or are at least curious. We may not get our own TV show, but as a large quiverful Christian family, we are still a witness to others. I have an article on this very topic: A Large Family as a Witness & Ministry. [...]