The Matter of Abuse

# 572 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:9 "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."

In marriage, man and woman are supernaturally joined together by God. Man is not to allow for separation (divorce) Well, what do we do when abuse is involved? No one should have to remain subject to physical, verbal, or sexual abuse. This is true!

But again, nowhere in Scripture does it list abuse as grounds for ending a marriage! The immediate need in these situations is the safety of the spouse and the children, and the healing of the abuser. This may require a time of separation, and intervention by the church and by the governing authorities.

There are laws against abusing others and they come to us through the God-ordained agency of civil government. Ro 13:3 says, “For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 For he is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.

Perhaps there needs to be a little more fear (induced by stricter penalties) for those who would abuse others. Such offenders need to think twice before they harm others.

The goal of separation and government intervention is the immediate and long-term safety of the victims. That speaks of rehabilitation for the offender and hopefully eventual reconciliation of the marriage. Separation until safety is restored is allowable, but not divorce.

Father, move in the hearts of magistrates and legislators to deal with abusers according to Your will. Help break the cycle of abuse wherever it appears.