10 Bible Verses for Broken Marriages

As someone in his 22nd year of marriage, I can testify to this: There are no perfect marriages and no perfect people. In a marriage that works, you will find two people who have many stories to tell of trials they’ve endured and choices they made not to give up on each other. In my own marriage, I have given my wife ample opportunities to choose to move forward with me, and although not in as great a quantity, she has given me opportunities, too.

But the reason our marriage is a success is not because of perfection. It’s a success because when it has been broken, we each decided our union is greater than either of us on our own. We decided, inspired by our faith, to work on our relationship. You can do that, too. When your marriage is broken, you can start by using these 10 Bible verses for broken marriages.

1. Lack of Commitment to the Marriage – (Proverbs 18:22)

Several years ago, in the midst of a midlife crisis, God impressed upon me that he had provided everything I need in my wife. Put into that perspective—that your wife is a tremendous blessing from the Lord in every way. Knowing that, a man can pour his whole heart into committing to being all she needs him to be, too.

2. Infidelity – (Exodus 20:14)

Cheating destroys marriages and families. For those reading who are on that road and want off, you can be forgiven and redeemed. But it will require a sincere heart, confession to both God and your spouse, and repenting from that activity. For encouragement, here’s a great resource.

3. Constant Conflict – (Ephesians 5:33)

If your marriage is filled with conflict, don’t give up.

This scripture instructs a husband to love his wife as he loves himself and that his wife must respect him. If your marriage is filled with conflict, don’t give up. Instead seek sound counsel and professional help that can bring peace into your home.

4. Substance Abuse – (1 Peter 4:7)

I grew up in a home utterly destroyed by my mom’s alcoholism. We must be of sober mind to lead, and of clear mind to pray for the help we need. So if your marriage is broken by substance abuse, seek the help necessary to recover and save your family.

5. Financial Issues – (Proverbs 21:20)

Financial stress strains a marriage. It’s one of the primary causes of divorce. But it doesn’t have to be permanent. Work together to learn how to manage money successfully.

6. Unrealistic Expectations – (Proverbs 13:12)

From birth, we are told how things should look and feel, and most of what we are shown is unattainable. However, when we place our hopes and expectations for our lives and marriages in the Lord, we connect to the “tree of life.”

7. Stress and Anxiety – (1 Chronicles 16:11)

I believe the only true source of hope, strength, peace, and purpose is God. When you focus on him instead of on whatever causes you stress, he’ll give you the strength to bear what you need to bear and the peace of knowing you’re in his hands no matter what you face.

8. Busyness – (Psalm 46:10)

Nearly all of us have the tendency to bite off more than we can chew at work and at home, and this creates chaos. But there is great value in being still with God. Sometimes, stepping away from the noise, into nature, or out of our everyday hustle for a little quiet time restores the peace our schedules threaten daily.

9. Lacking Grace for Each Other – (James 1:19)

“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” How many of our marriage problems could be solved just by adhering to this advice? When you’re tempted to snap at your wife, recall this verse and try to do what it says.

10. Lack of Sexual Passion – (Proverbs 5:18-19)

“May you ever be intoxicated with her love.” This is one of my most cherished verses in scripture, and one that runs on repeat in my head and heart. You and your wife are gifts from God to each other. Find out what new way you can be a gift to her today. Being that gift to her every day can rekindle the fire you may have thought you lost.

Sound off: What other passages of scripture are good Bible verses for broken marriages?