Part six from a sermon series at Westside Christian Fellowship on Real Marriage—the truth about life together.
In my opinion, only God can truly answer this question. Spouses are encouraged to spend extended time in the Word and obedience to it, as well as extended times of prayer and fasting, and seeking godly counsel. All destructive relationships and toxic counsel must be severed as you seek to answer this question.
Many great bible teachers are divided on this issue. Some believe that re-marriage to another is never allowed unless one of the spouses dies, but others suggest that it is permissible when adultery and abandonment occur. On that note, I highly recommend resources on re-marriage and divorce from contemporary authors and teachers such as John Piper, John MacArthur, Jack Hayford, Mark Driscoll, and Kay Arthur, to name only a few.
One thing is certain, if the Scriptures on marriage and divorce were fully taught and acknowledged, it would create more serious consideration before marriage, and would be a great deterrent to divorce. Lack of regard for the Scriptures has taken us to the other extreme—no fault divorce.
I believe that God hates divorce; reconciliation is pleasing to Him. There are instances, in my opinion, when one is released through adultery and/or abandonment; however, reconcile should still be sought. First and foremost, God’s will is that we walk in integrity, follow His principles, use wisdom, be patient, and seek Him during the journey. For some, reconciliation may result, for others it may not.
As a final confirmation, before I committed fully to Morgan, I contacted my ex-wife three years after our divorce to validate my feelings of being released. She confirmed that she was in a long-term relationship (it eventually led to marriage), and she wished me the best. I felt that I had received my last and most solid confirmation. It was now clear that I could no longer allow past brokenness to cause future pain.
Although some stated that I should have contended for restoration for the rest of my life, I realized that I could not control the choices that others make. I may be able to influence or encourage them, but ultimately the choice to leave is up to them. My ex-spouse choose to leave and file for divorce. I contended for restoration for three long years after my divorce, but I felt that I was finally released.
Divorce is not the unpardonable sin; rejecting Christ is. Clearly understand that I’m not advocating divorce, nor am I saying that if you are currently separated that divorce become an option because better opportunities await you. God hates divorce and anyone who has been there knows why.
I must reiterate: I believe, first and foremost, in reconciliation and restoration but these are not always options. That’s why a personal relationship with Jesus and obedience to God’s Word is profoundly important. Through that relationship you will be able to make the right decision. It won’t be easy because lives have been damaged, dreams destroyed, and promises broken, but God continually redeems us through His forgiveness as we forgive others. God desires that we know His will and follow His lead, especially during the detours of life.
Many divorced Christians carry years of regret into future relationships. If God is doing a new thing, it’s vitally important that past brokenness does not prevent future plans. But if God is ministering restoration in your spirit, wait for it; contend for it; pray fervently for it. I also encourage you to remove everything that may hinder restoration (e.g., wrong relationships, strongholds, addictions, anger, un-forgiveness, bitterness, etc.), and seek Him wholeheartedly and unconditionally. He will direct you…this I know.
