Broken Vows: Healing From Spousal BetrayalSample

Moving Forward Takes Time

One thing that makes navigating betrayal so challenging is the fear of the unknown. After the revelation of a spouse’s infidelity or deception, it may be hard to know what to do next. You try to find your bearings, work to make sense of what’s happening, stabilize yourself emotionally and mentally, keep up with your daily responsibilities, all while you carry the weight of the unknown. No doubt, your mind is flooded with questions:

• Will I ever be able to trust my spouse again?
• How long will it take for things to get back to normal?
• Is my marriage going to last?
• What do I tell my child(ren)?

There are so many questions and no easy answers. One thing is certain though: this journey of healing and recovery takes time. As much as we love instant things in our culture, this is a reality we have to accept. As you look out on the journey ahead, consider these options as healthy next steps on the road to healing. They may not make the journey shorter, but they will certainly make it easier:

• Join a support group. Pure Desire offers online groups for men and women who have experienced betrayal: for women, Betrayal & Beyond groups; for men, Hope for Men groups.
• Set healthy boundaries. Set boundaries around your physical, emotional, and
  mental health.
• Resist policing your spouse. Invest in yourself and put your efforts and energy into your healing.
• Stay spiritually connected. Find spiritual support through family, friends, your local church, or other resources like Pure Desire Ministries.
• Be intentional with big decisions. Before making any big changes, get wise counsel from a mentor, pastor, or professional counselor.
• Seek professional counseling. For some who experience betrayal, the idea of telling anyone is horrifying. Meeting with a counselor one-on-one may be the best place to start.

Don’t be afraid. Take the next step toward healing and discover a life free from the effects of betrayal trauma. This is the life God created for you.

Thought of the Day: The road ahead of me may be long, but I know God is with me. I will take intentional steps, day by day, trusting that my healing is closer every day.

For more information regarding this devotional and to download the full free e-book, please follow this link, https://puredesire.org/free-ebook-7-keys-to-understanding-betrayal-trauma/