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***This advice is aimed specifically at Christians. Although there may be messages of value for those of other faiths and spiritual beliefs, these are not covered here. I have based this solely on my own experience.***
As a Christian and a church goer, I have found that separation
brings a whole new set of issues that other single parents may not have to deal with.
Your church as a family
Very often if you attend a church, the church community can be like your family. This can be a good or a bad thing. If your church family is supportive of your situation it could make things much easier to bear. If, like me, your church family are at best neutral, and at worst condemning, then you have a new set of problems. For me this has been a hard road over nearly 2 years where I have tried to find my new identity as a single parent in an environment where there is very little support. I have finally made a break from my church. This not only affects me but also the kids as that is where they fitted and had friends.
Is your separation okay with God?
I was recommended an awesome book on this topic titled "Divorce and Remarriage" by David Instone-Brewer. My personal observation of Christian marriages that break down is that it is usually caused by one of the three "As" - Adultery, Addiction or Abuse. None of these are okay with God. He values His children far more than we value our own. And you would never want to see your children hurt, would you? This is not an easy thing to deal with, but keep in mind that God loves you more than you could ever know and what ever concerns or issues you have, He wants you to bring them to him, not reject Him along with the Christians/church that treat you badly.
How do you teach your kids about spirituality?
Chances are that you and your ex have different ideas about your faiths (even if you once were in sync with one another). It is worth having a think about how you want your kids to be involved with your faith now that you're separated. Do you want them to go to Sunday School? Should they continue to go to church with you or with your ex? What if you go to different churches now? While none of these need be a problem, its definitely an issue you need to think about.
Some people will never be okay with it
The sad truth within the Christian community that there are a number of judgemental and condemning people. They are convinced they know best and - often without finding out the truth of your situation - will judge or condemn you. It may be overt where things are said to you directly or to people around you, or it may be more subtle where they merely treat you in a different way. Unfortunately, some people will never change and it is left up to you to deal with it. You can ignore them, or you can move on, you can confront them - whatever works best for you. Just don't blame yourself if they can't reconcile their ideals with your reality.
But on the bright side...
Some people will truly show you Grace
The reverse side of the coin, is that you will meet some people who will truly be there for you and will show you true grace and acceptance regardless of your circumstances. These people really show you the face of God and should be cherished. Make sure you thank them and show your appreciation of them. Not all of these people will be found in typical Christian circles, but that doesn't make their support and acceptance of any less value. I have met some of these wonderful people through courses I've taken, at work and (of course!) on Minti.
The creator of the Universe is your friend
Never underestimate the fact that no matter what terrible circumstances you've been through, you are still loved immeasurably by the creator of the Universe. Having someone like that on your side cannot be underestimated. Don't let go of your faith just because the people around you are not supporting or encouraging you. Don't let someone else's idea of God determine your own relationship with Him. Explore your own faith and find out for yourself what you truly believe and who you have a relationship with. God's big enough to deal with all your stuff. Let Him do it.