Bible Discussion Thread

Katherine- look to verse 15. Paraphrased, if an unbeliever leaves his/her believing spouse, let that person go. Abuse is a large issue, and one that permanently affects not only the original target-in this case you-, but also those associated with either you or the abuser. Therefore, we have a responsibility to our children to protect them from imminent danger, be it any variety of abuse. When a subservient spouse allows their partner to damage anyone, the subservient spouse is also guilty of the abuse. Sometimes, we have to defend ourselves and those around us, lest we become accomplices to the abuser. It is easy for "wolves" to site scripture in an attempt to manipulate the believer, as this is the devil's great desception. Having said that, as long as you aren't exaggerating a hurtful behavior from your husband and attempting to be the center stage of an unnecessary drama, verse 15 explains that we, as believers, are not bound to remain with someone who delivers evil and continues to be a threat for doing further harm, either to yourself or secondary persons, including your children. It is an expected and responsible act,even a Christianly duty, to take care of ourselves as well as our children. Living under this evil only serves to enable the abuser to continue the cycle.