Divorce is one of the most difficult and emotional experiences a person can face. Whether it’s caused by infidelity, abuse, or simply growing apart, the pain and loss can be overwhelming.
During such times, many people turn to scripture for comfort, wisdom, and healing. The Bible offers valuable guidance on relationships, marriage, and divorce, providing compassion and understanding for those who are struggling.
In this post, we’ll explore 35 Bible verses about divorce. These verses not only offer spiritual insight but also encourage and remind us that God deeply cares for the broken-hearted.
Whether you’re going through a divorce or just want to understand what the Bible says about it, these verses can bring clarity and peace.
1. Malachi 2:16
“For I hate divorce, says the Lord, the God of Israel, and him who covers his garment with violence, says the Lord of hosts. So take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously.”
Explanation: This verse reflects God’s hatred for divorce because it often involves betrayal and brokenness. God values marriage as a sacred covenant and calls His people to remain faithful. It emphasizes the importance of commitment and honesty in relationships.
2. Matthew 19:6
“So they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
Explanation: In this verse, Jesus underscores the sacredness of marriage. It reflects God’s intention for marriage to be a lifelong union. The verse serves as a reminder that God desires for couples to remain together and work through their struggles.
3. Matthew 19:9
“And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery.”
Explanation: Jesus acknowledges that divorce is permitted in cases of sexual immorality but highlights the gravity of remarriage after divorce. This verse offers a clearer view of how God views divorce under specific circumstances.
4. 1 Corinthians 7:10-11
“To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife.”
Explanation: Here, Paul echoes Jesus’ teachings, emphasizing that reconciliation should be the goal for married couples, even after separation. The emphasis is on the sanctity of marriage and the importance of peace and restoration.
5. 1 Corinthians 7:15
“But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace.”
Explanation: This verse addresses situations where an unbelieving spouse chooses to leave the marriage. In such cases, the believer is not bound to continue the marriage, and the focus is placed on maintaining peace.
6. Mark 10:9
“Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”
Explanation: This verse reiterates the concept that marriage is a divine institution, and it should not be casually broken by human decisions. It calls for respect for God’s design and intention for marriage.
7. Luke 16:18
“Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and the man who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”
Explanation: Jesus stresses that remarriage after divorce, without biblical grounds, is seen as adultery. The focus is on marital faithfulness and the integrity of the marriage bond.
8. Romans 7:2-3
“For the woman who has a husband is bound by the law to her husband as long as he lives. But if the husband dies, she is released from the law of her husband. So then, if while her husband lives, she marries another man, she will be called an adulteress; but if her husband dies, she is free from that law, so that she is no adulteress, though she has married another man.”
Explanation: This passage explores the principle of marriage being a lifelong commitment. It illustrates that only death can break the marital bond and that remarriage is permissible if the spouse dies.
9. Deuteronomy 24:1-2
“When a man takes a wife and marries her, and it happens that she finds no favor in his eyes because he has found some indecency in her, and he writes her a certificate of divorce and puts it in her hand and sends her out from his house, and she departs from his house.”
Explanation: This Old Testament law acknowledges divorce but emphasizes the need for a formal and respectful process. It reflects the cultural context of the time but also serves as a guideline for how divorce was approached.
10. Proverbs 2:16-17
“To deliver you from the immoral woman, from the seductress who flatters with her words, who forsakes the companion of her youth and forgets the covenant of her God.”
Explanation: Though not directly about divorce, this verse speaks to the consequences of broken marital covenants. It warns against infidelity and the pain it can bring, highlighting the importance of remaining faithful.
11. Matthew 5:31-32
“It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery.”
Explanation: Jesus goes deeper into the reason behind divorce, clarifying that divorce should not be used for trivial reasons. It is only permissible for sexual immorality and emphasizes the seriousness of remarriage after divorce.
12. Ephesians 5:31
“For this reason, a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.”
Explanation: This verse emphasizes God’s design for marriage, where two individuals become united as one. It underscores the idea that marriage is a bond that should not be easily broken.
13. Hebrews 13:4
“Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled; for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.”
Explanation: The Bible stresses that marriage should be respected by all. This verse affirms that faithfulness is vital to the sanctity of the marriage relationship.
14. 1 Timothy 3:2
“Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.”
Explanation: This verse stresses the importance of marital faithfulness, particularly for those in leadership positions. It highlights the role of a spouse in maintaining integrity within the marriage.
15. Matthew 5:27-28
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
Explanation: Jesus deepens the understanding of adultery by stating that even lustful thoughts can be damaging. It calls for purity and faithfulness in both actions and thoughts.
16. 1 Corinthians 7:39
“A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.”
Explanation: This passage emphasizes that the marriage bond lasts until death. After the death of a spouse, remarriage is permitted, but it is important to marry someone who shares your faith in Christ.
17. Matthew 18:19-20
“Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”
Explanation: While this verse focuses on prayer and agreement, it can be applied to the marital relationship. It highlights the importance of unity and seeking God together in marriage.
18. Genesis 2:24
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”
Explanation: The creation story lays the foundation for marriage, showing that God designed it to be a union of two becoming one. Divorce breaks this sacred union, which is why it’s considered a serious matter.
19. Colossians 3:19
“Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.”
Explanation: This verse emphasizes the importance of love, kindness, and patience in marriage. Harshness and lack of respect can drive a wedge between spouses and may lead to divorce.
20. 1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”
Explanation: Husbands are called to treat their wives with respect and understanding. This is essential for a healthy, God-centered marriage that is resistant to conflict and divorce.
21. 1 Corinthians 7:28
“But those who marry will face many troubles in this life, and I want to spare you this.”
Explanation: Marriage is not without its challenges. Paul acknowledges that difficulties will come, but he encourages believers to persevere and seek God’s guidance in the midst of marital struggles.
22. Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.”
Explanation: This verse highlights the beauty and blessing of marriage when it is done according to God’s will. It reminds us of the significance of the marriage covenant.
23. Proverbs 31:10-12
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.”
Explanation: The ideal of a godly wife is portrayed here, showing how a healthy marriage is built on trust and mutual respect. These principles are essential to preventing the breakdown of the relationship.
24. Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Explanation: In times of marital pain or divorce, God is near. This verse provides comfort to those who feel broken by the experience of divorce, assuring them that God is there to heal and restore.
25. Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Explanation: Even in the painful experience of divorce, this verse reminds us that God is able to bring about good from difficult circumstances, offering hope for a future of healing and renewal.
26. Matthew 6:14-15
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Explanation: Forgiveness is essential, especially in the context of marriage. Holding onto unforgiveness can hinder reconciliation and healing, both in marriage and after divorce.
27. James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
Explanation: In moments of uncertainty and hardship, such as during a divorce, this verse encourages believers to seek God for wisdom and guidance in making decisions.
28. Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Explanation: Divorce can be a source of anxiety and stress. This verse encourages us to turn to God in prayer and trust Him for peace that transcends the pain we may feel.
29. Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Explanation: God offers assurance and strength to those who are struggling. Whether dealing with divorce or any other hardship, this verse promises God’s unwavering support.
30. John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Explanation: In times of turmoil, such as during a divorce, Jesus offers His peace—one that is beyond the world’s understanding. This peace can bring comfort and reassurance.
31. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
Explanation: This passage speaks to God’s role as the ultimate source of comfort. After a divorce, His comfort can help us heal, and later, we can offer that same comfort to others.
32. Psalm 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Explanation: God is the healer of broken hearts. This verse assures us that God sees the pain caused by divorce and offers to heal our emotional wounds.
33. Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Explanation: Divorce can lead to discouragement, but this verse encourages perseverance in doing good. Even after difficult seasons, God promises a harvest of blessings for those who do not give up.
34. Romans 12:18
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Explanation: Divorce may be unavoidable in some cases, but this verse encourages us to pursue peace in every relationship, even in the aftermath of separation.
35. Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”
Explanation: This verse reminds us that God has a plan for our lives, even after divorce. His plans are full of hope, and He will lead us into a future of restoration.
Conclusion
Divorce is undoubtedly a painful and challenging experience. However, the Bible provides a wealth of verses that can guide, comfort, and offer hope during these times of hardship.
Whether you’re currently navigating the difficult emotions of divorce or seeking insight into how God views this aspect of life, these verses can help you find peace and direction.
If you’ve found comfort in any of these Bible verses, or if you have your own thoughts or favorite verses about divorce, we’d love to hear from you. Share your experiences and reflections in the comments below.
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