Every book I’ve read on marriage says the same thing about having
close friends of the opposite sex: it’s not a good idea. When we are married
and still have close friends of the opposite sex we end up building an
emotional closeness in that relationship. Emotional intimacy should be reserved
for our spouse alone. We can have close friends of the opposite sex, but it’s
better to see them in a group setting. One on one meetings with friends of the
opposite sex builds too much emotional intimacy. Recommendations like these can
seem unnecessary or silly, but the experts know what they are talking about.
Audrey Meisner was close friends with a much younger man and
for many years he remained just that, a friend. She never imagined that she would
end up having and affair with him one day since he was much younger, and they were just
friends.
Bob and Audrey Meisner also had another struggle that so
many of us face, they were busy people, very busy. Where do you fit in time
to connect and work on your marriage when your schedules are packed with the
kids, work and ministry? Bob and Audrey tell their story about how in a busy
season of their lives Audrey ended up having an affair that almost ended their
marriage.
Bob had a bold and mature mentor who challenged him to
forgive his wife, just like God forgave him on the day of salvation. Bob wanted
to punch his mentor in the face for even suggesting
forgiveness as an option, but over time he chose to do just that, even if the
hurt was deep and it took time to heal from it.
