Finding Hope and Help By Kurt Bruner, The Center for Strong Families.
Paul told the Corinthian church, “Those who marry will have troubles” (1 Corinthians 7:28). Even the most committed couples can struggle to fulfill their marriage vows. What happens when these marriage troubles become unbearable? Is there a point where couples should end a bad marriage? Consider the following steps as you prayerfully evaluate your situation.
Step One: Discern minor trouble from major
Unfortunately, many marriages end over troubles that could have been overcome. University of Texas researcher Norval Glenn found that divorces are often blamed on problems such as lack of commitment, too much conflict and arguing, unrealistic expectations, and lack of preparation. Despite what friends, family, or popular culture might say, these issues are insufficient reasons to end a marriage. Considering the serious, long– term impact of divorce on both spouses and children, spouses need to evaluate their circumstances through the filter of God’s Word and the covenant of marriage.
In their book, The Case for Marriage, Maggie Gallagher and Linda Waite explain that couples who think their only options are to either divorce or be miserable often find things getting better if they’ll just stick it out. In fact, almost 80% of those who were very unhappy in their marriage, yet chose to stay together, described themselves as very happy just five years later!
Step Two: Anticipate the Hope After the Trouble
Major trouble occurs when someone either abuses or abandons their role in a marriage, for example, when a spouse breaks faith with their spouse and/or violates their vows. God specializes in redemption and resurrection, even in seemingly hopeless situations. “Even marriages that have faced one or more of the big A’s, for example, abuse, affairs, or addictions, can be saved,” says Mitch Temple, a licensed, counselor who directs Focus on the Family’s marriage ministry.
Step Three: If needed, protect yourself and your family
If your relationship is marked by physical abuse, you may find yourself confused, frightened, and unsure about your next step. The most important thing is take steps to protect yourself and your children from harm. You should not risk the safety of your children or yourself. A period of structured and therapeutic separation, under the guidance and direction of a spiritual counselor, may be necessary. This time apart can make it possible for both mates to get the help the marriage needs.
Step Four: Seek guidance–don’t go it alone
Whatever situation you’re in, don’t struggle through a difficult marriage alone. You need the community of the Body of Christ for perspective and advice, counseling and encouragement, and for hope. Periodically, each of us needs a listening ear from someone who understands and who can give us objective, insightful direction.
Going Further at Home
- Love and Respect–Dr. Emerson Eggerichs discusses a powerful biblical model for each spouse by understanding and meeting the other’s most deeply felt need.
- Breaking the Cycle of Divorce–Dr. John Trent helps those who had no model of marriage stability break the cycle by creating a successful relationship.
- Boundaries in Marriage–Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend show couples how to apply the 10 laws of boundaries that can make a real difference in relationships by learning when to say “yes” and when to say “no”.
- Love Must be Tough–Dr. James Dobson offers hope for marriages in crisis–including those who have an unfaithful spouse.
- Recommended Websites–FamilyLife.com and FocusOnTheFamily.com
Going Further at Church
- Life Group–Adults are invited to connect with other adults at 8:00, 9:20, and 11:00 a.m. Visit bellevue.org/connect for a current list of classes that include couples classes as well as men’s and women’s classes.
- Wednesday Night Equip and Care Groups–Take advantage of equipping environments offered by both experts and the experienced. Visit bellevue.org/equip for a list of classes and groups currently available.
- Bellevue’sBiblical Counseling Ministry–Both male and female counselors are available for individual, marriage, and family counseling. Visit bellevue.org/biblical-counseling for more information, or to schedule an appointment call (901) 347-5830.
This free and confidential service provides relevant Bible-based instruction for life change and is available to both members and non-members.