How to Overcome Adultery in Marriage
Scripture Verse:
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” — Colossians 3:13
Devotional: How to Overcome Adultery in Marriage
Adultery ranks among the most painful betrayals in a marriage. It breaks hearts, damages trust, and leaves deep wounds. However, by God’s grace, couples can overcome adultery in marriage and find lasting healing. While some marriages end, others not only survive but become stronger.
Overcoming infidelity involves more than staying together. It demands honest repentance, deliberate healing, and an active commitment to restore the marriage after adultery.
1. True Repentance Helps Overcome Adultery in Marriage
In order to begin healing, the unfaithful spouse must take real ownership. They should cut off contact with the third party, remove temptation, and live with full transparency. Repentance goes beyond words—it must show up in actions, especially if trying to overcome adultery in marriage.
As Jesus said, “You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). Therefore, changed behavior confirms genuine repentance.
2. Forgiveness Requires Courage and Discernment
Forgiveness doesn’t excuse wrongdoing. Instead, it frees the wounded spouse from bitterness. However, forgiveness doesn’t mean instant trust. That must be earned again, through consistency and time.
For example, if trust has been broken following adultery, clear boundaries may be necessary. More importantly, if repentance is missing, separation might be a righteous decision. To explore more spiritual encouragement, visit JordanAndKristen.com.
3. Rebuilding Trust Requires Action
The path to rebuild trust takes time and intentionality. The unfaithful partner should actively offer transparency—by sharing passwords, explaining absences, and inviting accountability. As a result, openness can help the faithful spouse feel safe again.
Likewise, the betrayed spouse needs to reject the enemy’s lies. Questions like “Was I not enough?” are rooted in shame. In truth, no one causes another person to sin. For biblical tools to overcome adultery in marriage, see Focus on the Family.
4. Seek God Together to Overcome Adultery in Marriage
Couples must pursue healing spiritually, not just emotionally. That means praying together, reading the Bible, and worshiping side by side. When both spouses seek God as a team, the marriage grows stronger.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 reminds us, “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Therefore, inviting Christ into your relationship makes restoration more powerful. For additional guidance on how to overcome adultery in marriage, visit FamilyLife.com.
5. Healing Is a Process, Not a Moment
To overcome adultery in marriage, couples need patience. Setbacks may occur, but perseverance can lead to lasting restoration. God restores what sin tried to destroy—but we must walk that journey faithfully.
As a result, couples who commit to healing may experience a stronger, more Christ-centered marriage than they ever had before.
Application
- If you were unfaithful: Show lasting repentance through changed actions, open communication, and humility.
- If you were betrayed: Grieve honestly. Forgiveness takes strength, and healing can’t be rushed.
- Pray together: Spiritual unity is essential for true restoration after adultery.
- Seek wise counsel: Trusted pastors or Christian counselors can provide vital help to overcome adultery in marriage.
Prayer
Father, You are the God of restoration. Where there has been betrayal, bring healing. Where there has been broken trust, build something even stronger. Give both spouses wisdom—let the unfaithful spouse show true repentance, and let the betrayed spouse find the strength to forgive. Bring healing, Lord, and help them to walk this difficult road with You at the center. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
