Infidelity in Christian Marriage (Part 5)
Welcome to the March edition of Singles’ World. In the last edition, I discussed lack of intimacy as one of the causes of adultery and also proposed biblical solutions to it.
As stated at the beginning of this series, this study has become necessary in view of the increasing prevalence of adultery and divorce in society today—including within Christian families, which ought to serve as examples to the world. Sadly, even the families of ministers of God are not exempt, as cases of infidelity and divorce are becoming more common. This unfortunate trend casts the Church of God in a negative light and makes it more difficult for unbelievers to embrace the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Christians are expected to be true disciples of Jesus Christ, living according to His teachings. Although believers are not immune to life’s challenges, adultery—being a work of the flesh—should not be found among Christian families.
In this edition, I wish to discuss another cause of adultery. It is my prayer that the Lord will grant us receptive hearts to receive the truth of His Word, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Spiritual Weakness / Broken Fellowship with God
Apart from lack of intimacy, spiritual weakness—manifested through a broken or declining fellowship with God—is a major cause of adultery. When devotion declines in the home, moral sensitivity also declines.
One of the key antidotes to sin is walking in the Spirit, as stated in Galatians 5:16: “Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” This implies that when we are sensitive to the voice and promptings of the Holy Spirit—our Guide and Teacher—it becomes difficult to live carelessly in sin, including adultery.
This underscores the importance of maintaining regular devotion to God. When we neglect or trivialise our quiet time and daily fellowship with God, and allow worldly or carnal activities to replace it, we gradually push aside the influence of the Holy Spirit and give room for the enemy to take control.
It is in the place of prayer and devotion that we receive divine warnings against impending temptations. Through consistent, reverent, and meditative study of the Word of God, the Holy Spirit speaks personally to us—highlighting specific Scriptures and directing our attention to what we need for each day.
The Holy Spirit knows:
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The challenges ahead
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The hidden dangers along our path
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The “valleys,” “hills,” and “rough roads” before us
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The individuals who may become sources of temptation
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The relationships and transactions that could endanger our lives
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The enemies disguised as friends
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The “wolves in sheep’s clothing” that threaten our lives and ministry
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Even opportunities, favours, or promotions that may weaken our resistance to sin
When we fail to maintain close fellowship with God through the Holy Spirit, our moral sensitivity becomes weakened. We begin to tolerate what we once rejected because the Word of God forbids it. We start to embrace what we previously condemned.
The boundaries we once respected—especially in our interactions with the opposite sex—begin to fade. We begin to misuse the grace of God as a licence for sin. Actions that once troubled our conscience no longer do so.
As stated in Romans 13:14, we begin to “make provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” Scripture also warns in Ecclesiastes 10:8 that “whoso breaketh an hedge, a serpent shall bite him.”
For example:
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You once refused to give or receive seductive compliments from a married person
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You avoided inappropriate physical contact (such as hugging or pecking)
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You avoided secret dealings with someone of the opposite sex
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You rejected worldly influences and suggestive dressing
However, as your devotion declines, your perception changes. You no longer see things as the Holy Spirit does. What once repulsed you now becomes acceptable, and your spiritual guard is lowered.
This explains why King Saul, though once anointed by God, consulted the witch of Endor when he could no longer hear from God. It also explains why David cried out in Psalm 51:11, pleading with God not to take His Holy Spirit from him.
When you are far from the Holy Spirit, you are naturally drawn towards the world, and sin becomes inevitable. James 4:8 declares, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” The reverse is also true—when you draw away from God, you distance yourself from His protection.
In a world where Satan is actively seeking whom he may devour, your safety is not guaranteed outside of close fellowship with God.
Today, many Christians are preoccupied with careers and worldly pursuits, neglecting their relationship with God. Prayer, Bible study, and regular church attendance have become burdens rather than opportunities for spiritual growth.
One of the greatest safeguards against adultery is a strong and consistent fellowship with God.
When you notice:
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A decline in your devotion
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A weakening love for God
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Reduced commitment to His service
