The Role of Forgiveness in Christian Attitudes Towards Divorce

Divorce is a difficult and painful experience for everyone involved. It can cause emotional and spiritual devastation, particularly for those who believe that marriage is a sacred covenant between two people and God. However, forgiveness plays a crucial role in Christian attitudes towards divorce.

In the Bible, Jesus teaches that divorce is only permissible in cases of infidelity (Matthew 5:32). This strict stance on divorce is rooted in the belief that marriage is a commitment made before God and should not be taken lightly. Despite this, forgiveness is emphasized as a core value in Christianity. In fact, Jesus himself embodied forgiveness throughout his life, forgiving his enemies even as he was being crucified.

Forgiveness in the context of divorce means letting go of anger, bitterness, and resentment towards one’s former spouse. It means releasing negative emotions and choosing to move on with love and compassion, rather than holding on to feelings of hurt and betrayal. This can be a difficult process, particularly when the pain of divorce is fresh, but it is a necessary step in healing and renewing one’s relationship with God.

Forgiveness also extends to oneself. Many Christians who have gone through divorce feel guilt and shame, believing that they have failed in their commitment to God and their partner. However, forgiveness means accepting that mistakes happen and choosing to move forward with humility and grace.

It is important to note that forgiveness does not mean that divorce is always the best or only option. There may be situations where divorce is necessary, such as cases of abuse or neglect. In these cases, forgiveness may involve forgiving oneself for allowing the abuse to continue, forgiving the abuser for their actions, and trusting in God’s plan for healing and restoration.

Ultimately, forgiveness is essential for restoring peace and harmony in one’s life after divorce. It allows individuals to let go of the past, heal from the pain of divorce, and move forward with hope and faith in God. As Christian author and speaker Joyce Meyer once said, “Forgiveness is not a feeling – it’s a decision we make because we want to do what’s right before God. It’s a quality decision that won’t be easy and it may take time to get through the process, but we can do it.”