Emotional Affairs: When closeness becomes destructive – Part 3

Emotional affairs. I’ve shared through the videos and blogs in this series what I think are the crucial things to know about them: how to diagnose the symptoms if you think you might be in one; what are the immediate steps you need to take to end a wrong relationship; and finally, what kinds of long-term commitments do you need to have, not only to heal but to grow in wholeness.

I really hope that you’ve been helped and feel invigorated in your desire to trust in Christ while you walk through a holy and probably a painful obedience in letting go of this relationship. But maybe you’re wavering. Perhaps you’re struggling with thoughts like, “Is this really that big of a deal? I mean, seriously, who’s going to be hurt by the closeness that I have with him, with her? It’s not a physical relationship. Why is my spouse making such a big deal out of this close friendship that I have?” Or maybe you’re thinking that ending this relationship is just too hard. It’s too scary. That to not have this person in your life would be just anguishing, something that you can’t even really consider.

I’ve saved my last comments for you. Brother, sister, I urge you to take this step of faith and to turn from this emotional affair. This is your spiritual act of worship, as Romans 12:1-2 says, to offer yourself up as a living sacrifice to Christ, the one we call Lord. God commands us in Hebrews 12:1-2 to throw off everything that hinders, and the sin which so easily entangles, and to run our race of faith.

He is a loving Lord for you, full of mercy and compassion, and he is holy. He commands us to follow and trust him with all of our hearts and in all areas of our lives. The consequences of ongoing disobedience will be more pain and broken relationships. But through Christ, the fruit of obedience is life and peace.

Jesus is near, and he will strengthen you for the journey that’s in front of you. He’ll provide comfort in the deep places of your soul where only he has access. Tim Keller, pastor, said that when God removes something from our lives for his good purposes, what he is taking away is a gain to lose, because it would be a loss to keep.

Christ will not fail you or abandon you. Seek him as your gracious Savior. You can trust him with your desires, needs, and fears, and experience his peace. He will get you to the other side of this. Trust in him.