I'm certainly ALL for gut feelings, as you say. And, I DO think the Lord has ways of speaking to us-----have had that MORE than once in our lives...as I'm sure others have had the same!
BUT.......I would also tell you:
We, too, are hoping to adopt another baby. We'd really prefer privately...though I continue to look and inquire about little ones on state websites. Having adopted from the foster care system, it's certain that you'll have to devote more time than usual to a child who's been in the system....even if it's only been one foster home. (BTDT...and thought it would be SUCH a difference of ease....it wasn't.
)
Further, it's a fact as well, that when adopting from the foster care system....or even an older baby privately......when you have other children in your home (even littler ones)....you have to consider that ALL OF YOU are now 'adopting another child'. And that's something I think a lot of famlies don't take into consideration. You not only have to consider how a new child will fit with you and your spouse, but also how your other children 'will fit'. Sometimes, that's a LOT easier said than done. (And we had children that were very agreeable, very open to having more kids in the home. Still, as a couple of years went on, the situations at hand became more and more taxing.)
You're wise to consider well.....because disruption (and even dissolution or placement in RTC) IS awful!!!! It's gut wrenching and just plain horrible!!!!! But, it happens more often than systems would like you to know.....
Soooo, while I think God may be talking to you......be sure as well-----and I say this, because sometimes my own heart gets in the way more than what I really think God is trying to tell me(?)..........be sure that you really have considered all avenues. I'll even go so far as to talk to your private agency to see if they ever get older baby situations to place. I've known a few that did...and sometimes, couples DON'T want to take an older baby. In that case, you could come into the picture that way, without necessarily dealing with children who've been in the system. If you're not already in a support group for adopting families from the state foster system, you might consider joining one. They'd probably be your best bet in seeing what it can really be like, KWIM?
Just please be careful; and try not to solely listen to your heart. I KNOW how hard it can be. My best to you as you pursue this course. (((HUG)))
Sincerely,
Linny