Relationships Part 9: Divorce & Widowhood

Introduction:

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of the Teachable Woman podcast, where we delve into the complexities and beauty of life from a faith-based perspective. Today, our hosts, Reverend Michele Owes and Reverend Diana P. Cherry, tackle the sensitive topics of divorce and widowhood, exploring these life-altering events' emotional and spiritual challenges. Whether you're contemplating divorce, have already experienced it, or are navigating life as a widow, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and guidance rooted in Christian principles.

Show Notes:

Introduction to the Episode:

Reverend Michele Owes and Mrs. Reverend Deanna P. Cherry open the discussion by revisiting the success of the Teachable Woman podcast retreat and expressing their gratitude to the attendees. The episode then transitions to the day's topic: the complexities of divorce and widowhood.

I. Understanding Imperfections in Relationships:

• Rev. Cherry highlights the importance of understanding that marriage involves two imperfect people.
• Both partners must recognize their flaws and approach the relationship with humility and forgiveness, as unmet expectations often lead to thoughts of divorce.
• Rev. Owes asks if the listeners have forgiven their husbands 70 X 7 as per the Bible.
• The Power of Forgiveness: Forgiveness is highlighted as a critical element in marriage. Rev. Owes reminds listeners of the biblical call to forgive repeatedly and to reflect on their imperfections before condemning their spouse.

II. The Emotional Impact of Divorce:

• Rev. Owes shares the importance of maintaining love, respect, and godly principles in all relationships, whether intact, severed, or broken.
• Mrs. Cherry and Rev. Owes emphasize the importance of considering the long-term effects on children and maintaining a respectful relationship with the ex-spouse.

III. Seeking God's Guidance:

• Both hosts stress the importance of seeking God’s guidance before deciding about divorce.
• They remind listeners that God’s plan for marriage is a lifetime commitment, and decisions should not be made hastily or based solely on unmet expectations.
• Both hosts emphasize that every marriage involves two imperfect individuals and that acknowledging one’s own flaws is crucial in resolving conflicts within the relationship.

IV. Practical Advice for Communication:

• Communication Strategies: The importance of effective communication in marriage is discussed, with suggestions to seek God’s guidance in finding ways to communicate better with one’s spouse, even during difficult times.
• Rev. Owes offers practical advice for improving communication in strained relationships.
• She suggests praying for guidance and, if necessary, using silence to prevent further conflict while maintaining respect and love for the other person.

V. Reflecting on Commitments Made:

• The hosts remind listeners of the vows made at the altar and encourage them to slow down and reflect on those commitments.
• They emphasize that God will judge each person based on their adherence to these vows, not their spouse's.

VI. Personal Stories and Final Encouragement:

• The episode concludes with personal anecdotes from both hosts, reflecting on their own experiences and offering final words of encouragement.
• They urge listeners to consider the lasting impact of their choices and to seek God’s will in all matters of the heart.

VII. Summary:

In this episode, Reverend Michele Owes and Mrs. Reverend Deanna P. Cherry discuss the profound differences and similarities between divorce and widowhood. They emphasize recognizing both partners' imperfections and urge listeners to reflect deeply before making life-changing decisions like divorce. They encourage listeners to seek God's guidance, especially during difficult times, and to remember the impact of their choices on children and their spiritual well-being. With personal anecdotes and biblical references, they provide practical advice for those facing these challenging circumstances.