Depending on the circumstances, the cost of adoption can range between nothing to $30,000. Adoption from the foster care system may not cost anything at all and a subsidy may be available. Adoption domestically or internationally can cost between $10,000 to over $30,000. Some of these typical costs can include: adoption agency fees, attorney and legal fees, medical expenses, child-placement agency fees, court fees, filing fees, foster care/orphanage reimbursement, home study and home study follow-up fees, locating fee (if applicable), post-placement supervision expense, finalization fees, birth mother expenses, travel expenses, in-country travel and lodging (international), government filing fees. Because the adoption of children needs to be planned, within reason, a decision to adopt must be made with prayer and the counsel of mature and trusted Christians. Adoption offers a chance at a new beginning for many children cared for by state and private agencies and international orphan situations. The financial barriers to adoption can seem overwhelming, but fortunately, we do not have to look at the outward appearance of things; we can look to the One who controls all the circumstances of our lives. Adoption is part of the Great Commission, and we see that God's heart of compassion for the fatherless is clearly expressed throughout Scripture. We see adoption by believers as "missions in reverse" because adoption provides an opportunity to reach across the globe and bring children into homes where Jesus is present and God's Word is central.

For a look into the more practical side of adoption, and to delve deeper into the subject, I suggest you take a look at the VideoJug Website and watch all their great films on adoption.