To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not be separate from her husband (but if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband), and the husband should not divorce his wife.

--1 Corinthians 7:10-11

Is it okay for a believer to divorce an unbeliever? In 1 Corinthians 7:10, Paul deals specifically with the issue of a believer and an unbeliever being married.

In the New Testament church of Corinth, divorce was one of the issues new believers were questioning. Some who had come to Christ were wondering if they should leave their unbelieving mates.

Maybe you or someone you know is faced with this same question. If you came to know Christ after being married and your spouse has not yet made a decision to share your faith, what should you do?

According to our verse today, Paul discourages divorce for that reason. As a new believer, you should try to be a light for your spouse. Pray for them daily. If you love them, then you will want them to experience the same grace and joy you have found.

However, there are certain Scriptural grounds for divorce. If you are struggling in your marriage, I want to encourage you to discuss your situation with a godly friend or pastor. Go deeper into the Word for your answer.

IF YOU ARE STRUGGLING WITH THE ISSUE OF DIVORCE, PLEASE SEE A TRAINED CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR OR YOUR PASTOR.