Bad behavior Quote by Lewis B. Smedes
“Forgive a wife-slammer if you can. But you don't have to live with him. Forgive a husband who is abusing your children if you can. But only after you kick him out of the house. And if you can't get him out, get help. It's available. In the meantime, don't let him near the kids, and don't let anyone tell you that if you forgive him it means you have to stay with him. [There's an important difference between forgiving a person and tolerating their bad behavior.]”
About This Quote
Source Book: Forgiveness and Freedom, Lewis B. Smedes, 1995
Forgiveness does not require staying in an abusive situation; safety and boundaries come first.
In simple terms: Forgive, but protect yourself and children.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize safety, then consider forgiveness.
Themes
forgiveness
abuse
boundaries
Mood
empathetic
determined
Type
self‑help
advice
When to use this quote
- domestic violence counseling
- legal protection
- support groups
- family planning
Key Concepts
psychology
ethics
personal safety
Questions to Reflect On
- What steps can you take to ensure safety before forgiving?
- How does setting boundaries affect healing?
A Different Perspective
Forgiveness may be impossible without removing the threat.
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