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Divorced and Thriving: How to Break the Stigma Around Second Chances

  Let’s be honest; nobody walks down the aisle thinking they’ll one day be divorced. You plan the wedding, dream of forever, and hope love will always be enough. Unfortunately, it isn’t always so. And when it all falls apart, society often makes it worse. Especially here in Nigeria, where aunties at every family gathering suddenly become relationship counsellors, whispering things like, “What happened?” or “You’ll find someone soon, by God’s grace.” As if your worth expired with your marriage . Now, here’s the truth: divorce isn’t the end of your story. It’s a chapter; a painful one, yes, but also powerful. It can be the beginning of rediscovery, healing, and even thriving. So, let’s talk about breaking the stigma and embracing second chances in love, in life, and in yourself. 1. The Stigma Is Real, But It’s Also Outdated: In our culture, divorce is still whispered about like a scandal. People say “she’s divorced” in hushed tones, as if it’s a crime. Men face judgment too, t...
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Faith Talks: Practical Ways to Deal with Anxiety According to Scriptures

 

African man praying with a Bible

Let’s be honest, life can feel overwhelming at times. There are days when it seems like everything is spiralling out of control: bills piling up, relationships strained, the future uncertain. And even if you’re someone who trusts God, anxiety can still creep in quietly and settle in like an unwanted guest.

If you’re in that space right now, first, take a breath. You’re not alone. So many of us wrestle with anxiety in one form or another. Thankfully, the Bible doesn’t ignore this very human struggle. In fact, Scripture offers wisdom, comfort, and practical tools for navigating anxious seasons.

Now, let’s talk about some down-to-earth ways you can deal with anxiety, guided by the truths of Scripture, and in a way that’s honest, actionable, and rooted in grace.


1. Acknowledge Your Feelings, Then Bring Them to God: It’s okay to admit when you’re anxious. Being a person of faith doesn’t mean pretending everything’s fine. Even Jesus, in the garden of Gethsemane, experienced deep distress (Matthew 26:37-39). He didn’t hide it, He took it straight to the Father.

You can do the same. Be real with God. Say it out loud or write it in a journal: “God, I’m anxious about this job interview… this diagnosis… this decision I have to make.” Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

The key here isn’t to deny anxiety exists, it’s to bring it to the One who can help carry it.

African lady praying


2. Speak Truth Over Your Mind: Anxiety often feeds on worst-case scenarios and “what-ifs.” That’s why it’s so powerful to replace those fear-based thoughts with truth from Scripture.

Try this the next time your mind starts spiralling: pause and speak, or read, a promise from the Bible out loud. For example:

● “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” —Psalm 56:3

● “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” —1 Peter 5:7

● “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.” —Isaiah 26:3

This isn’t about positive thinking or empty mantras. It’s about rewiring your inner dialogue with something grounded and eternal.

African man reading a Bible


3. Practice Gratitude, Even in the Small Things: Gratitude and anxiety don’t like to share space. That’s why Philippians 4:6 includes “with thanksgiving” as part of the prescription for peace. You don’t need to wait for something big to go right before giving thanks.

Try this: when anxiety hits, list three things you’re thankful for, no matter how small. A plate of food, a kind text, or sunshine after the rain. It won’t erase your problems, but it shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s still good.

Lady writing a list


4. Surround Yourself with People Who Remind You of God’s Faithfulness: Anxiety thrives in isolation. One of the most helpful things you can do is talk to someone. It could be a friend, a mentor, or a trusted believer, who won’t just offer advice but will pray with you, remind you of truth, and maybe even sit quietly with you in the hard moments.

Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” Sometimes, God speaks to us through the people around us. Don’t be afraid to reach out

Youths having Bible study



5. Take One Step at a Time, and Trust God With the Rest: Anxiety loves to drag us into the future with thoughts of, ‘what if this happens? What if that doesn’t work out?’ But Jesus says in Matthew 6:34, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

It’s okay to plan. But try not to live in next week, next year, or next decade. Stay present. Ask God, “What’s one thing I can do today?” And then do it, trusting that He’ll meet you in tomorrow just like He did today.

Girl looking out a window



In conclusion, dealing with anxiety doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you’re human. And faith isn’t about pretending everything’s fine, it’s about leaning on a God who is strong when we are not.

So, if your heart feels heavy, be kind to yourself. Take a breath. Talk to God. Speak truth. Ask for help. And remember this: “The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” —Psalm 34:18

That includes you.

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