You may be surprised to hear that Gil and Kelly Bates do not see children as a parameter for how much trust a couple has placed in God.
In a recent interview with Christian Examiner, Gil Bates shares how he and his wife ended up with 19 kids and why they decided to film a reality TV show.
"It's not a matter of how many children God gives you; it's really a matter for us of finding God's will for your life, and being willing to trust Him in whatever He's asked you to do," Gil tells Christian Examiner. "How did we end up with 19 kids? It was really nothing we planned for, but it was something we believe God led us to trust in Him. We didn't know it would be 19 kids, but I don't think we would have seen and experienced some of the amazing blessings we've seen in life had we not chosen to trust God."
When the Bates were offered a spot on reality TV, they were hesitant to accept, unsure of how a film crew what effect their family dynamic. But after much prayer and discussion, they decided to give it a try, seeing it as a ministry opportunity.
"So with a lot of shaking knees and a little reluctance, we moved forward one step at a time," Gil tells Christian Examiner. "It was a drastic change for our kids, but it's been a wonderful experience so far. It's been a positive for our kids and for us."
The production company chooses the family events that it will cover months in advance and only ends up filming two to three days a week. "They try to be really mindful of our family, realizing that our primary goal is to raise our family and live for the Lord," says Gil. " The show is kind of an outreach from our family."
Read more at ChristianExaminer.com.
Photo courtesy of UP
Thank you so much for doing it! You are a true blessing to our family and we so look forward with anticipation for Thursday evenings and now to the next season!
ReplyDeleteLove to watch this family on their show,would love to meet them some day
ReplyDeleteSuch a refreshing change to watch a show and not be shocked by the content, My family loves laughing and crying along with yours. Thank you for inviting us into your lives.
ReplyDeleteThis family is truly amazing. We were blessed with an opportunity to meet them and they have the ability to make you feel like family within the first 5 minutes. The truly live their lives for God. You meet them and you can see it in their actions. They're sweet, caring and loving. They radiate love.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for them to be back.