Before You Enter a New Relationship

"I made a mistake after my separation and the first part of my divorce," admits Cindy. "I started dating a very nice man. Then I realized, 'Wait a second—as flags were going up—this is the same kind of guy I just divorced.'

"Fortunately, he had said to me 'You're not ready to date yet,' for he too had been divorced. At first I thought, What do you mean? I know when I'm ready to date and when I'm not. But he was right. I wasn't ready."

Cindy, with her three teenage children watching, made the decision that she needed to experience complete healing before she began to date again. She realized that she needed to be okay on her own, and she knew she could only move forward with God at the helm of her life.

Before you enter a new relationship, you and your children need to be healed. Teach your children that God can be the one to meet all of your needs and He will provide the healing you so desperately need.

"With all your heart you must trust the LORD and not your own judgment. Always let him lead you, and he will clear the road for you to follow. Don't ever think that you are wise enough, but respect the LORD and stay away from evil. This will make you healthy, and you will feel strong" (Proverbs 3:5-8 CEV).