The divorce rate has risen greatly in the past 100 years.

In 1900 the rate was about 8%.

In 1940 the rate was about 20%.

In 1970 the rate was about 33%.

In 2011 the rate was about 50% of first marriages.

The rate was about 60% of second marriages.

The rate was about 73% of third marriages.

Regardless of the cause, God hates divorce.

One of the best safeguards against divorce is marrying a Christian.

I Kings 11:1-8

The four major causes of divorce have been listed as follows:

Sexual incompatibility

I Corinthians 7:1-3 - Husband and wife are to fulfill their duties to each other.

Financial irresponsibility

Galatians 5:3 - Christians are to show self-control.

Alcoholism

Proverbs 20:1 - Drunkenness condemned

I Peter 4:3-5.

Religious discord

It is a great strain to a marriage when both are not Christians.

Things that will make divorce impossible:

Love and respect for God’s law

Love and respect for one another

Do not be angry at the same time.

Do not go to bed angry.

Knock out selfishness. Do not say: “My mate is not treating me as he/she should.” Rather ask: “Am I treating my mate as I should?”

Summed up: be a Christian!