Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2
2020 was a challenging year for many. While some people enjoyed the distraction of a slower pace that came with the lockdowns, others fell victim to unhealthy habits during that season. It was a time when married couples seemed to either grow stronger together or be torn apart.
You may still be dealing with the after-effects of that season of life. I want you to know that you are going to make it. There is hope for tomorrow. However, you must do one thing to see that hope for tomorrow. You must reach out for help.
Your marriage won’t survive if you are living a lie. It’s time to get honest with your spouse and yourself about the things the enemy is trying to use to take control of your life. As you read these words, you probably can think of that “thing.” The addiction that you know is killing you like weeds overtaking a garden. The secret sin you hope your spouse will never find out about. That secret relationship that you are feeding.
It’s time to take a step toward healing and Jesus.
That first step is often the hardest. The enemy wants you to think you have gone too far. The shame is too great. The enemy wants you to feel trapped, like there is no way out. There is hope for tomorrow through Jesus!
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10
You’re going to make it.
Who do you need to talk to? Do you need to confess some unhealthy thought patterns to your spouse? Do you need to tell your boss you have been dishonest with company funds? Take that first step. Chances are, you will find grace waiting for you on the other side of that step.
There may be consequences, but eventually, you will be able to recognize God’s grace in your life and His mercy. Don’t let the enemy keep you trapped in the lie that eats away at your life.
In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” Hebrews 12:4-6
We all need a community of like-minded people to walk through life with us. If you don’t have that community, pray that the Lord will send people into your life to walk with you. Then you must do your part and be vulnerable with those people. Don’t hide in the darkness. Let God’s light of freedom shine through the darkness of sin.
If you are the spouse who is watching your husband or wife spiral out of control, there is hope. You may realize something is wrong, but you can’t quite put your finger on it. You may see unhealthy thought patterns or addictions overtaking your spouse. I understand the pain. Life may feel like it will never be the same. It will. There is hope for tomorrow. There is healing.
You’re going to make it.
Pray that the Lord would help your spouse see the mercy and forgiveness that exists on the other side of an honest conversation. Don’t keep in the dark what God wants to be brought to light. Don’t let the embarrassment of shame stop you from moving forward. God can use your story for His glory. Your situation may be the catalyst for someone else to find hope and healing.
The process of healing may take time. It may require counseling, forgiveness, and therapy. It may even require a move to leave relationships in the past. Take the first step and watch how the Lord will open the path for you to walk with Him through the process.
Your marriage is worth the fight!
You’re going to make it.
God bless,
