COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (BP)--"Christians divorce at roughly the same rate as the world!" It's one of the most quoted stats by Christian leaders today. And it's perhaps one of the most inaccurate.
Based on the best data available, the divorce rate among Christians is significantly lower than the general population.
Here's the truth....Many people who seriously practice a traditional religious faith -- be it Christian or other -- have a divorce rate markedly lower than the general population.
The factor making the most difference is religious commitment and practice. Couples who regularly practice any combination of serious religious behaviors and attitudes -- attend church nearly every week, read their Bibles and spiritual materials regularly; pray privately and together; generally take their faith seriously, living not as perfect disciples, but serious disciples -- enjoy significantly lower divorce rates than mere church members, the general public and unbelievers.
Professor Bradley Wright, a sociologist at the University of Connecticut, explains from his analysis of people who identify as Christians but rarely attend church, that 60 percent of these have been divorced. Of those who attend church regularly, 38 percent have been divorced.[1]
The Christian divorce rate should be at 0% so 38% is not acceptable, but it's not as bad as some say it is.
If a couple is surrounded by other loving Christians, regularly reads the Bible, prays and seeks Godly wisdom in counseling, they can get through any difficulties. Worldly wisdom tells a struggling couple that divorce is the best option if someone's needs are not being met or adultery is a factor. Biblical wisdom says that God can heal all relationships and forgiveness is the first step.
When God says "I hate divorce" in the book of Malachi, a Christian should take that pretty seriously and not pursue anything that God specifically can't stand.
[1] http://www.crosswalk.com/family/marriage/divorce-and-remarriage/the-christian-divorce-rate-myth.html