This is the first time I have ever gotten onto a message board so please bear with me as I learn. I am not sure what all of the icons represent so I hope I used this one correctly. My question is... is there anyone else out there confused about waiting for the prodigal spouse to return? How long should I wait, what do I do in the meantime? I have been visiting a couple of other sites in regards to separated and divorced spouses waiting for their partners. I've been separated for 18 months and have been working on my relationship with the Lord during that time and I believe it's the only thing that has kept me sane and hopeful. I continue to pray that God would work in my h's life, and that he would accept the Lord and decide to work on our marriage. At this time he feels alot of anger and resentment towards me and feels that the majority of our problems were my fault and that he's an o.k. guy and shouldn't have to change anything. Anyhow it's a long story but I'm still believing that God hates divorce and wants us to reconcile and have a Christian marriage. So pray for me, send me any hints or tips for patience and help me to increase my faith. God's Peace...... LAP

waiting,<BR>You are indeed right, the Lord hates divorce. I also believe that you are doing exactly what He is calling you to do, to seek Him. <BR>My h moved out a year ago but has been with the ow for 5+ years, although a long distance relationship, which it still is even now.<BR>It has taken me a wjile to get to where you are, and that is working on seeking God, my relationship with HIm. I have begun to do things for myself with God's help to change.<BR>I do not know if my h will come back, but for now I believe I need to remain standing. Therer are days that I too wonder how long, but then on others I am convicted tat I should stand for as long as it takes. I can only do this through God's strength. <BR>I think your question can only be answered between you and God. He is the creator and it is He that we stand in covenant with our spouses.<P>I had taken my wedding ring off 10 months ago, after getting mad at h after he moved out. I have always regretted it. This weeekend I felt convicted to put it back on. I did not put my engagement ring on, because that to me stood for the promise my husband made to me and broke. But my wedding ring represents not only my union with my h but the covenant with God.<P>H was not noticed the ring yet, I don't quite know what his reaction will be. But I am married and felt that is what God wanted me to do.<P>This is not an easy place to be, but you are right we could not do it without God. I encourage you to keep standing, until you hear differently from God. Remain focused on Him. We can not control our h's or their walk, but we can ours. For me being obedient to God is more important. The Lord will lead you where He wants you to be. Join us here for prayer and study, the women that post here are very encouraging.<P>Father,<BR>Please help us to hear only your voice in the matter of how long we remain standing for our husbands' returns and our marriage. Help us to seek You with all our hearts, and show us Your glory and power in the answer to our prayers. In Jesus name, Amen.