Stay Together for the Children’s Sake
(October 19, 2026)
Before I begin this article, let me say that if you are in a dangerous situation in
your marriage this article doesn’t apply to you. Get out of danger, now! For you
and your children’s sake. Having said that, I continue.
Satan is a deceiver and one of his favorite lies is this: “Don’t stay in a difficult
marriage just for the sake of the children. They are better off if you leave.” Friend,
every case is different and I would not dare to say to you stay in your marriage no
matter what. But what I am saying is this: Don’t make the decision to leave your
spouse lightly.
Difficult seasons come to every marriage, and some seasons can last a long time. I
went through an eight-year depression where I was severely incapacitated and
not a good husband or father at all. Even some Christians told Olive to leave me.
But my dear wife stuck with me, and God had mercy and healed me with the right
medication and counselling. I will always be grateful for her tenacity and
faithfulness.
I want to say a word about if adultery has occurred in the marriage. Jesus allows
for divorce if there has been adultery, but it is not commanded. I believe that
forgiveness and restoration is always the goal if there is repentance on the part of
the guilty party. Flagrant, repeated adultery is a different matter. May God give
you wisdom and discernment into this if you have experienced adultery in your
marriage.
Otherwise, if you are going through a tough period in your marriage, may I
encourage you to hand in there? But don’t go through it alone! Talk to a godly
Pastor or Elder or another Christian counselor who can help you navigate through
your situation. Especially if you have children. It is ok and often good for children
to see their parents stay together to work through problems instead of bailing out
when things get hard. I pray that God will give you wisdom and insight into your
situation and help you to do His will.