Isn’t this rather selfish of them since they are all now happily married?

on Apr 21, 2026

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: My wife and I are contemplating divorce. While there’s some element of love, we aren’t really happy anymore in the relationship. Our children have applied pressure, saying that we should stay together as an example to them. Isn’t this rather selfish of them since they are all now happily married? – T.P.

A: The family is the basic unit of society. But from the very beginning, since man sinned against God, the family has been in trouble.

On certain products, you will find the label, “For best results, follow the instructions of the manufacturer.” For best results in marriage and in rearing children and building a stable home, follow the instructions of the One who performed the first wedding in the garden of Eden. Those instructions are in the Bible. The reason the family is in critical condition today is that we have neglected the rules, the regulations, and the formula for a successful home.

A home and marriage divided can bring tension and unhappiness, leading husband and wife to give up. Don’t do it! God can heal any marriage when both surrender to God.

A wise counselor wrote about the topic of troubled marriages. Whenever he heard someone say, “I don’t love her,” or “I don’t love him anymore,” the first question he asked was this: “But are you willing to love?”

If we’re not willing to love our spouses, then God will not be able to restore the love we once had for our mates. Remember, feelings come out of commitment and sacrifice. We love God because He first loved us. We come to feel and understand God’s love because He offers it in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Be willing to set your self-centeredness aside and ask God to do a work in your heart that will bring healing and restoration, for the glory of God. He will.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)