3 Key Lessons To Life After Divorce
Life keeps unfolding; it won't wait around for you.
Life Experiences--they change us and shape us but they do not define us.
It's easy to share the "wins" in life, but many times if we are honest, we learn more with the "losses." Mine include divorces; that's right, plural. This is a heavy hearted statement that I am far from proud of. I believe in marriage and admire those who have the strength to stay through insurmountable adversities even though I didn't. I have however used these life experiences to grow and feel compelled to share three keys to life after divorce.
1. Forgiveness
Forgive your ex and yourself. Make time for the quiet time even if you don't feel you need it. Take this time to pause, read, pray, reflect and more importantly "listen" for God's direction. Saying "I'm sorry, forgive me" to another person and yourself is healing and takes strength; do not see this as a sign of weakness. God forgives us and gives us undeserving grace. Esphensians 4:32 says, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Pray for the strength to take this step of healing. I have learned that prayer may not change your circumstances, but prayer will change and prepare you for the road ahead.
2. Fall in love
With yourself. Self love is the best medicine. Learning to love yourself will set the tone for all future relationships. God made each of us unique; giving us talents and gifts, so know you have value. You are not where you've come from but what you choose to become.
3. Move forward
One day, one week, one month at a time. Focus on your choices today and know that God will meet you in your tomorrows when you get there. Life moves forward with choices, one after another, all shapes and sizes. Life keeps unfolding. It won't wait around for you. Don't wake up one day and realize you've been going the wrong direction or even standing still. As the saying goes, "Don't look back, you're not headed that way." So move forward, let go and let God share his purpose for your life. "Nothing can stop God's plan for our life" Isaiah 14:27.
Remember that although we can not change our yesterdays, we can change our tomorrows. I hope these three keys will aid in your ability to turn the page and start writing the next chapter. As you follow God's will for the next chapters in your life, pray for your mind, heart and eyes to be wide open so He may guide you, interrupt you, rearrange you and redirect you as needed.