For Some Couples Divorce Is The Only Reasonable Option

God’s words are, “I hate divorce.” (Malachi 2:16) 

But behind that confession is God’s own experience with the agony of divorce, God’s own pain with a marital breakup. Church people ran with that and projected heavy shame on people for making their decision. Married men decreed the divorced ineligible for church leadership and were suspicious of men leading anything from government to business. Married women treated divorced women in their loneliest moments like a threat.

“And I saw, when for all the causes whereby backsliding Israel committed adultery I had put her away and given her a bill of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah feared not, but went and played the harlot also.” (Jeremiah 3:8)

In some cases, people divorce for physical safety and, in others, for mental recovery and emotional safety. Sometimes, they hate what they are doing, and it’s not the public’s business to decide. Legally, in the U.S., divorce requires the consent of both parties. The exceptions are for adultery or cruelty.

With so much unfaithfulness and cruelty among Christians, is it possible that chunks of today’s church are wearing the ring, but their union is over?

You who are faithful, I urge you to stay true to the Righteous One who never stops loving. Feel the love!