A Destructive Marriage is not a Cross to Bear

A primary reason I stayed so long in a destructive marriage was because I incorrectly understood that enduring the "...or worse" was my cross to bear.

We all need to be reminded that the cross is a symbol of liberation, not oppression. Jesus endured the cross so we could walk in freedom and strength to accomplish the good, God-ordained work so marvelously begun in us.

As long as there are "pastors" (like the one here) who espouse ungodly suffering as acceptable and even deem it a virtue, there will be a need for domestic violence awareness.

As long as there are pastors who do not understand that abuse breaks the marriage covenant, there will be a need for domestic violence awareness.

Pastors are supposed to be shepherds guarding the flock from harmful, destructive theology that serves the enemy's plan to cripple or destroy one's ability to walk fully in their purpose.

This is why you must read God's word and understand it for yourself. All throughout the Bible God is shown to hate and be against those who love violence and oppression. Not only is He a liberator, but He also wants us to fight for liberation.

That fight starts with honoring the body temple He has given to us by keeping it healthy and safe from harm - including harm caused by others. Why? So we can have strength to carry out His will and bring Him glory.

God calls us to hard, not harm. Hard strengthens us to accomplish His will. Ungodly suffering - which causes harm to our mind, body, and spirit - weakens our ability to accomplish His will and advance His kingdom.

It really is pretty simple. Domestic violence in any form is against God and grieves Him.

Protect your purpose and be sure you're being shepherded by a pastor who follows God's word to help you do just that.

You matter.

Your voice matters.

Your story matters.

Your valley will be exalted and your triumph will bring glory to God.💜