Want to divorce my lying husband

Dear Pastor,

I am living in America, but I am vacationing in Jamaica at the moment. I am married, but my husband and I are not getting along. He has scandalised my name.

He told our two children that I am having sex with one of his friends, and that is a big lie. He is saying these things to get my children to turn against me. But I am sure that he will not succeed because they know that he is a liar.

When he met me, I already had my house. He tried to convince me to put his name on my title, but I did not agree. So from that time he has made up stories against me. I have worked hard over the years, and what we have in this house is what I have bought on my own. My relatives have helped me to send the children to school. I would like to make an appointment to see you.

One of my brothers and I bought this house. My husband does not have any money in it. My brother does not talk much. He said that I should keep quiet and let him handle the situation. My husband is always telling me what people say about me, but I know that he is not speaking the truth. He believes in obeah. Whenever I cook and I leave his dinner, he does not eat it. So I do not leave dinner for him any more. Every day he curses me like a dog. I am tired of this life.

My bishop told me that if I divorce him, I will have to live a single life until I die. I told the bishop that that rule is the church's rule. He says that it is in the Bible. Do I really have to stay single if I divorce this man? I will be looking for your answer in THE STAR.

Anonymous

Dear Writer,

I hear so many things that people say are in the Bible, but they are man-made doctrines, and that matter of divorce and remarriage has been a debate for many years.

Some churches are against it and some are not. If a couple is married and they can't get along, and they have tried to resolve their problems but are unable to come together in peace, they should be able to get divorced. The Bible says God hates divorce.

Divorce should not be rushed into. But, it is a necessary evil. Some men tell lies on their wives, and some women tell lies on their husbands. If you believe that you should divorce this man, do so; and don't condemn yourself for walking away from him.

I am sure that you would like to live in peace. You may find that you cannot live in peace for a couple of months. Divorce should be the last resort after you have tried everything to get this man to change his ways. I wish you well.

Pastor