Morally, it doesn’t make moral sense to make it harder for women and children to seek safety simply because someone might misuse divorce.
Divorce may harm children, but forcing oppression may end their lives. People will misuse systems, but forcing victims of abuse or adultery, etc. to prove their case only traumatizes and further punishes victims while encouraging adulterers and abusers to better hide their rebellion. It adds stress and financial barriers to a situation that already seems impossible.
No-fault divorce protects both parties as it leaves room to seek safety while protecting reputations.
Some may believe that public shame is a beneficial thing and this should be considered, but at the same time leaving abuse is the most vulnerable and dangerous time for victims. A righteous image is the main motivator of abusive people and a tarnished reputation is a main factor that leads abusers to seek vengeance.
Proving fault requires evidence and this unnecessary legal process keeps victims within the reach of their abusers long-term. Enslaving a victim to a location and years-long court battles over betrayals they already know were committed leads to emotional and psychological breakdowns, financial strain, harrassment, stalking, torture, and even death.
Sometimes, what looks good on paper doesn’t pan out that way in real life. God’s Word is clear that He allows divorce, works justice and righteousness for the oppressed, and delivers the weak and needy from the hand of the wicked. His Word is clear that He doesn’t want innocent children to be irreversibly destroyed.
It’s not the victim’s job to convince strangers what happened behind closed doors. It’s not the government’s job to validate what God already knows.
If God delivers someone from a broken covenant, society should not stand in the way of His will. They should at least be provided a way out.
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. – Ephesians 5:15-17
The Lord works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed. – Psalm 103:6
Rescue those who are being taken away to death; hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter. – Proverbs 24:11
Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked. – Psalm 82:4
