Is There Any Hope For My Marriage?

Q: My husband travels a lot with his work, and he’s finally admitted he has a girlfriend in another city. Needless to say, I’m very angry and upset. Now he’s moved out and says he’s filing for divorce so he can marry her. Is there any hope for us? I’m an emotional wreck. — Mrs. R.S.

A: Over the years, many have told me that going through a divorce was worse than the death of a loved one — and I can understand why. Divorce is almost always intensely painful for at least one spouse, and those who claim otherwise aren’t facing reality.

Like death, divorce marks the end of what was once a treasured relationship, leaving in its wake grief and loneliness and even anger. It also causes fears and anxieties about the future, including financial hardship and worries about life’s practical problems. Divorce can also bring emotional burdens of guilt and insecurity, as a spouse wonders what he or she could have done to prevent it. No wonder Jesus said, “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate” (Matthew 19:6).

What your husband has done is wrong, both in your eyes and in the eyes of God. No doubt he thinks he’s making the right decision — but he isn’t. At the same time, God can intervene and bring him to his senses; occasionally I’ve seen it happen.

No matter what the future holds, may you turn to God in a new way and discover His peace and love. God loves you, and Christ wants to help you. If you have never done so, turn to Christ and put your faith and trust in Him. Then let the Psalmist’s prayer become yours: “Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer” (Psalm 4:1).

========

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.