Escaping Instead of Engaging
Addictions
Day 4 of 21 · Tuesday 5 May 2026
Scripture reading
“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”
Genesis 2:24, KJV
Teaching lesson
When things got difficult, they each had their way of coping.
He withdrew. Became quiet. Distant.She filled the silence with activity, anything to avoid the tension.
Neither addressed the issue.Both avoided the discomfort.
At first, it felt easier.
No confrontation. No difficult conversations.
But over time, the distance grew.
What started as avoidance became separation, not physically, but emotionally.
Escape can take many forms: work, entertainment, sleep, silence.And while it may bring temporary relief, it slowly weakens the bond that marriage is meant to build.
Genesis reminds us that marriage is about becoming one, not two individuals living separate emotional lives.
Connection requires courage.
It requires choosing to stay present, even when it’s uncomfortable.
To lean in, not pull away.
Because what you avoid today often becomes the problem you face tomorrow.
Together
Your challenge
Choose one small issue you’ve both been avoiding and talk about it calmly today.
On your own
To reflect on
- Do I tend to withdraw or avoid when things get difficult?
Prayer focus
“Pray for courage to engage, wisdom in communication, and a heart that chooses connection over escape.”
With love and prayer,Sharlene
Vividly in Love offers encouragement and practical tools, not counselling. If your marriage is in a season that needs professional support, Sharlene’s counselling practice, Vivid Resolutions, works with adults and couples across the Caribbean.
This is not a crisis service. Emergency contacts vary across the Caribbean. If there is immediate danger, contact your local police or ambulance service. In Trinidad and Tobago: Police 999, Ambulance 811, or 800-COPE (2673) for a mental-health crisis.