Editor: There is, without doubt, a rise in the number of divorces in this country. Space does not permit to fully develop this topic; however, here are some things to look at concerning divorce.

The foundation is the most important ingredient in a healthy relationship and successful marriage. {{more}}A closer investigation will show that some persons got married for the wrong reason. The marriage was based on what the other partner could offer, such as financial security, sex and material things. Some are built on what they considered love. They went into marriage for the right reason and that is love for each other. However, years later, they discovered what they thought was love was merely an attraction or even obsession. As a result divorce occurs.

In many cases, the relationship was built far too early, in the sense that both partners were still far too young. Thus the attraction, feelings and obsession that they had and thought was love only turned out later not to be real genuine love from the heart.

Theologically, many persons got married to avoid fornication. This, I consider is a recipe for disaster. For a careful examination would show that many such marriages did not last long. In some cases, there was unfaithfulness. In this case, you are stopping a hole and digging another hole.

A relationship ought to be built on genuine love. A love that comes from the heart. 1 Corinthians 13: 4 – 7 outlines what genuine love really is. A person ought to love someone for who they are and not for what they can receive from the other partner. We know that none of us is perfect. Thus, a person must decide in his/her mind if he/she can live with the faults of the other person. It is indeed a mistake to think that I can change him/her or that he/she will change. Be yourself and love your partner for who he/she is.

It is rather unfortunate that many persons, both Christian and non-Christians don’t put much thought into the seriousness of marriage. Many enter into it blindly, hoping it would work out and if it does not, then they would divorce. This kind of mentality has left many homes divided and children are the ones who suffer. Many children suffer in silence, which later affects their own lives. Also it is a seed sown, which will be reaped by the children.

In a future article I would expand on more points. God hates divorce and it robs our nation of stable homes, which leads to many forms of social ills. Let us seek God’s face before entering into marriage. For Proverbs 3:5&6 guide us as to what we should do. May God bless the families and make them strong.

Kennard King