Here are a few tips to breaking up with grace:
Don't jump right in to a new relationship.
Rebound relationships are fairly common. But they usually aren't a good idea. By rushing right in to a new relationship, you might be tempted to compromise your standards. Instead, spend some time digging into the Word to see what standards God has for your future spouse. (Check out Titus 1:5–9 to get started.)
Do ask God to bring someone into your life in His timing.
Ask God to show you what kind of person He would like you to link your heart to. Write out a list of the qualities you most want in your future husband or wife. Pray for God to bring you a man or woman who is a good match for you in His timing. You can trust Him. Here's proof.
Yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary (Isaiah 40:31).
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "...plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11).
He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end (Ecclesiastes 3:11).
Don't self-destruct.
I've seen breakups serve as the catalyst for a number of dangerous behaviors in the lives of young women and men I know. Cutting, drinking, purging, overeating, undereating, and rage are a few of the behaviors I see most often.
I know that breakups hurt. But making the choice to self-destruct only makes things much, much worse.
First Thessalonians 5:16–18 urges us, Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Make the choice to live out your faith even when your heart is broken.
Do find someone to talk to.
If feel like you are unable to move on after a breakup, reach out to a wise Christian adult for help. There is no shame in asking for wise guidance and support. It is also okay to seek out a Christian counselor. Don't feel silly or embarrassed or ashamed. Ask for help and keep asking until the break starts to mend.
Take it from someone who's been there—your heart won't hurt forever. It is my prayer that while you are healing, you will cling to the promises God already offers you.
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds (Psalm 147:3).
