Avoiding Divorce

Avoiding Divorce

So guard your heart; remain loyal to the wife of your youth.

Malachi 2:15

THROUGH THE YEARS, I have counseled enough divorced persons to know that while divorce removes some pressures, it creates a host of others. If you are considering divorce, reflect on the following facts: Only a small percentage of divorced individuals claim to have found greater happiness in a second or third marriage. In fact, whereas the divorce rate in first marriages is 40 percent, the divorce rate in second marriages is 60 percent and in third marriages, 75 percent. The hope of the grass being greener on the other side of the fence is a myth.

I am not naive enough to suggest that divorce can be eliminated from the human landscape. I am simply saying that far too many couples have opted for divorce too soon and at too great a price. Divorce should be the last possible alternative. It should be preceded by every effort at reconciling differences, dealing with issues, and solving problems. I believe that many divorced couples could have reconciled if they had sought and found proper help.

Don’t settle for the myth that there is no hope for your marriage. Given the right information and the proper support, you can be a positive change agent in your relationship. Follow God’s advice as given in Malachi 2, and guard your heart. Remain faithful to your spouse, and seek help.

Heavenly Father, there are moments when divorce seems tempting. But I know it’s never an easy solution; it’s a path filled with pain and difficulty. Please give me a rock-solid commitment to my spouse, no matter what. Show me how to express love to my spouse and how to effect change in our relationship.

Divorce