From my journal today, February 2, 2016
I read an inspiring article in the new Ensign Magazine today called "Forgiving My Ex-Husband". The woman who wrote the article was in her early 40s when her husband divorced her, left her to finish raising their teenagers, and to work a full-time job. She describes the incredible feelings of pain, rejection, and resentment she felt. I personally cannot imagine going through that experience myself.
I have watched this same scene playing out with friends or loved ones. Our daughter has watched this with LDS friends of hers. Their seems to be two general reactions and outcomes to this type of situation. With her friends she has mostly seen the wives become bitter, angry, and they get mad at God for what they are experiencing, feeling that since they were living the Gospel they shouldn't have to be subjected to such heartache and pain. They often turn from God and leave the Church. They allow Satan to fill them with hatred and resentment. Now this isn't to say that you wouldn't naturally feel extreme anger and betrayal in such a situation. The question is, how to deal with it.
Then there are those, like the author of this article, who do just the opposite and seek for the Lord's guidance and solace. They look to the example of the Savior and studied how He dealt with rejection and betrayal by even His closest disciples. With God's help this woman was able to forgive her ex-husband, and not belittle him before their children. In time she forgave him and even though he had remarried, they developed a friendly, positive relationship as they shared in rearing their children. It surely was the most challenging experience of her life, but she saw it through, finding new peace and joy in her life. I am grateful to be reminded of how much our Father in Heaven loves us, is aware of our needs, and how with His help we can go through anything and come out victorious.
I read an inspiring article in the new Ensign Magazine today called "Forgiving My Ex-Husband". The woman who wrote the article was in her early 40s when her husband divorced her, left her to finish raising their teenagers, and to work a full-time job. She describes the incredible feelings of pain, rejection, and resentment she felt. I personally cannot imagine going through that experience myself.
I have watched this same scene playing out with friends or loved ones. Our daughter has watched this with LDS friends of hers. Their seems to be two general reactions and outcomes to this type of situation. With her friends she has mostly seen the wives become bitter, angry, and they get mad at God for what they are experiencing, feeling that since they were living the Gospel they shouldn't have to be subjected to such heartache and pain. They often turn from God and leave the Church. They allow Satan to fill them with hatred and resentment. Now this isn't to say that you wouldn't naturally feel extreme anger and betrayal in such a situation. The question is, how to deal with it.
Then there are those, like the author of this article, who do just the opposite and seek for the Lord's guidance and solace. They look to the example of the Savior and studied how He dealt with rejection and betrayal by even His closest disciples. With God's help this woman was able to forgive her ex-husband, and not belittle him before their children. In time she forgave him and even though he had remarried, they developed a friendly, positive relationship as they shared in rearing their children. It surely was the most challenging experience of her life, but she saw it through, finding new peace and joy in her life. I am grateful to be reminded of how much our Father in Heaven loves us, is aware of our needs, and how with His help we can go through anything and come out victorious.
No comments:
Post a Comment