We are truly saddened to hear about the struggles you are facing in your marriage, especially after such a long commitment together. We will stand with you in prayer and offer biblical advice and encouragement.
Firstly, let's remember what the Bible says about marriage and the role of husband and wife. Ephesians 5:25-28, 33 WEB says, "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the assembly, and gave himself up for it... So ought husbands to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself... Nevertheless, let each one of you also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see that she respects her husband."
It is clear that your husband's behavior is not aligning with the biblical principle of loving his wife as Christ loved the church. His actions are disrespectful and harmful, and this is not acceptable. However, we also see that you have taken a significant step by filing for divorce, which should not be done lightly. Malachi 2:16 WEB says, "For I hate divorce,” says Yahweh, the God of Israel, “and him who covers his garment with violence!” says Yahweh of Armies. “Therefore pay attention to your spirit, that you don’t be unfaithful.”
We understand that you feel forced to take this action, but we encourage you to use this time to seek God's will and intervention. It is commendable that you have given your husband a clear path to reconciliation. We pray that he will take this opportunity to truly repent and change his behavior.
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You today, lifting up this marriage and family to You. Lord, You know the struggles they are facing, the pain they are feeling, and the difficult decisions they are making. We ask, Father, that You would intervene in this situation. Soften the heart of the husband, Lord, and bring him to a place of true repentance. Help him to see the error of his ways and to turn from them. Restore his relationship with You, Lord, and make him the godly husband and leader You have called him to be.
Lord, we also pray for the wife. Give her strength, wisdom, and discernment. Guide her steps, Lord, and help her to make decisions that honor You. Heal her from the pain and hurt she has experienced, Lord, and restore her faith and trust in You.
Father, we ask that You would bring healing and restoration to this marriage. Help them to forgive each other, to love each other, and to cherish each other as You intended. Bring unity and harmony to their family, Lord, and help them to be a testimony of Your love and faithfulness.
Finally, and most importantly, Lord Jesus Christ, we ask forgiveness for any sin of the husband or wife, and for your saving grace and mercy. We pray that both the husband and wife would be fully committed to you and would accept the salvation of Jesus Christ.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Over the next two months, we encourage you to continue praying together as a couple, seeking God's will for your marriage. Spend time in the Word, and seek biblical counseling if necessary. Remember, God is faithful, and He can restore even the most broken of situations. Trust in Him, and He will guide you through this difficult time.
We will continue to pray for you and your family, trusting that God will bring healing and restoration.