God Speaks to WomenSample

LIFE AFTER DIVORCE

Divorce is the death of a marriage. It is one of the most devastating experiences we may face in life. No matter the reason or how it played out, it is essential to remember that God loves and values us. He created us for His Kingdom purpose, and we are a part of God’s plan. Despite the disruption and challenges we faced, we still have value.

We must forgive ourselves. Sometimes it is easier for us to forgive others than to forgive ourselves. However, self-forgiveness is necessary for us to be healthy and thrive in every area of our lives. The following steps are essential to moving forward with forgiving ourselves: (1) Acknowledge we are a flawed human who is entitled to make mistakes. (2) Accept that failures are not weaknesses but growth opportunities. (3)Receive God’s forgiveness in our lives and extend our forgiveness to our ex-spouses. (4) Allow ourselves to be healed from our past.

We must embrace our new lives. Allowing ourselves to grieve is necessary for our healing. As we recover from the loss of our old lives, we will begin to embrace our new lives. Divorce brings many unexpected changes. We may have anticipated losing our houses but did not expect the loss of our friends. Our family structures and daily routines have changed, and possibly our financial security. It is important for us to take the time needed to evaluate and become acclimated to our new lives. This is the perfect time to rediscover and fall in love with ourselves.

Our divorces do not define us. Jesus’ disciples were not exemplary. They each had character flaws. However, He entrusted them with His mission to carry the Gospel to the world. Whatever we go through God is Faithful who promised and has assured us, “I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen (Matthew 28:20).”

PRAYER: Lord God Almighty, You are our Healer and the lifter of our heads. Touch every part of us and heal every broken place so that we may walk in wholeness with renewed strength and the joy of the Lord. Amen.