11 Apr, 2026 Bringing awareness to autism
Resources/Biblical Perspective
By Summer Lane
Photo: Pixabay
What is autism, and why is it suddenly on the rise?
According to Johns Hopkins, 1 in 31 children in the United States, as of 2022, will be diagnosed with the disorder. But what is autism? It is a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, per Autism Speaks. Every year, more children are diagnosed with this disorder, which often develops uniquely from person to person. For example, some kids may be completely non-verbal, while others many function at a higher level, but still suffer with repetitive behavior or social challenges.
From Autism Speaks:
There are many causes of autism.  Research suggests that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) develops from a combination of:
- Genetic influences and
- Environmental influences, including social determinants
These factors appear to increase the risk of autism and shape the type of autism that a child will develop. However, it’s important to keep in mind that increased risk is not the same as a cause. For example, some gene changes associated with autism can also be found in people who don’t have the disorder. Similarly, not everyone exposed to an environmental risk factor for autism will develop the disorder. In fact, most will not.
While the link between autism and vaccines has not been officially linked by medical experts, speculation remains. Additionally, for the Christian parent, many may wonder how to parent an autistic child. Where does one see the difference between an autistic behavior and genuine, willful disobedience? How can Christians administer loving correction and differentiate those two things?Â
In Christ, even the most difficult diagnosis can become a mechanism for hope and restoration. All children, regardless of their medical diagnosis, is a miracle who has been created in the image of God. We praise the Lord for these wonderful individuals, and here at the Counter Culture Mom Show, it was our honor to highlight autism this week and bring awareness to the condition, so that we can pray for those affected, and so that we can reach into our communities and support families as they care for their loved ones who grapple with the realities of daily living.Â
Two key guests visited the show in the last week and shared their firsthand knowledge about autism with the Counter Culture Mom Show, giving us a greater perspective and a sense of what it’s like to live with an autism diagnosis, and how we can share Christ’s love with those who live with the condition.Â
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
(Eph. 2:10)
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Juli Reynolds
One in 31 children in the United States has autism, and for parents, the journey often tests faith and endurance. Juli Reynolds is the board chair of the Anchor of Hope Foundation, a Georgia-based Christian organization that supports individuals with developmental disabilities and their caregivers through financial aid, community, spiritual encouragement, and programs promoting growth, independence, and purpose. The foundation defines developmental disability as one acquired in childhood requiring lifelong support, with autism being a primary example. Juli was inspired to become an Occupational Therapist after caring for her youngest brother with severe, nonverbal autism. She now helps connect parents with resources to support their children through every stage of life.
Johanna Pressley
A child who has been diagnosed with autism is also a child who has been made in the image of God. That beautiful truth is the guiding light for parents who seek to shepherd their children and train them up with a Scriptural foundation. Johanna Pressley is a Biblical counselor and the author of Biblical Counseling and Autism in Children, a resource-rich and easy-to-read handbook for parents who need help identifying disability-triggered behaviors versus sinful rebellion in their children. Many parents may find it hard to sift through research online. Johanna makes it easy! She gives the Christian perspective on parenting autistic children through the lens of a Biblical worldview and recognizing kids as image-bearers of their Creator.
Summer Lane is the #1 bestselling author of 30 books, including the hit Collapse Series and Resurrection Series. She is an experienced journalist and editor who is covering the White House and Trump administration. She owns Write Revolution News.
Summer is also a mom and wife who enjoys rural country living, herding cats, and gardening. She is passionate about writing on women’s issues, parenting, and politics from a theologically-grounded perspective that points readers to the good news of the gospel.
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