Introduction
There is a natural tendency for people to rejoice when they hear about the adversity of others, especially those in the public eye.
Such is the case with Apostle Solomon Oduro, a pastor, and his wife, Rev. Charlotte Oduro. On Monday, 10th February 2025, a press release from the Apostle’s office confirmed that the couple had been separated for three years and had now decided to make their divorce official, informing their loved ones and followers.
Part of the statement read:
“It is with a deep sense of responsibility and solemn reflection that Apostle Solomon Oduro officially announces the dissolution of his marriage to Rev. Charlotte Oduro. This decision has been reached after much prayer, discussion, and careful consideration.”
He concluded by requesting that “his loved ones, well-wishers, and the Body of Christ uphold both himself and Rev. Charlotte Oduro in prayers.”
While I would have preferred for this matter to remain private, it has already generated a mix of reactions. Some defend their preferred party, while others take delight in the downfall of well-known Christian figures.
In this article, I want to highlight why we should not rejoice when others face misfortune but rather learn from their experiences and live wisely to avoid similar pitfalls.
1. We Must Recognize That Every Marriage Faces Challenges.
The statement from Apostle Oduro clearly indicates that the couple faced numerous challenges throughout their 16 years of marriage. Whatever their struggles were, they were real and significant.
Having been married for just over five years myself, I can attest to the reality that every marriage has its own challenges. There is no perfect marriage. Whether Christian or non-Christian, all marriages come with struggles that couples must navigate.
If you are not yet married but find joy in hearing about another’s divorce, pause and reflect on what could happen in your own future. If you are married, consider the possible trials your own union might face.
Jesus said in Matthew 7:24-27 that the storms of life come to both the wise and the foolish. However, the wise remain standing because they have built their lives on the solid foundation of God’s Word.
2. Anyone Can Face Difficulties.
One of the biggest shocks for many regarding Apostle Oduro’s divorce is that he is a pastor and the wife is a well-respected marriage counselor. However, divorce does not discriminate. If the right conditions are present, it can happen to anyone—regardless of their spiritual standing.
A Christian marriage that is not built on the solid rock of God’s Word is vulnerable. This serves as a warning that none of us are immune to failure in marriage if we do not play our part well.
In Genesis 4:7 (NKJV), God asked Cain: “If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.”
Rather than laughing at someone else’s misfortune, we should take the opportunity to examine our own relationships. If you were in their position, would your marriage have survived 16 years of challenges? Let’s take this as a lesson to safeguard our own marriages.
3. We Must Show Mercy to Those in Trouble.
When we hear of others going through difficulties, our response should be one of mercy, not mockery. I doubt that when Apostle Oduro and his wife got married 16 years ago, they envisioned divorce in their future. Life happens. Unexpected trials can overwhelm even the strongest individuals.
Some people endure unbearable marriages, while others make the painful choice to separate. In this case, the Apostle mentioned that they had already been separated for three years before finalizing their decision.
Rather than ridiculing those in distress, we should take heed and strive to avoid the same pitfalls. Many who mock others eventually find themselves in similar situations.
Paul advises in Galatians 6:4-5 (NKJV): “[4] But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. [5] For each one shall bear his own load.”
If we desire mercy from God, we must extend mercy to others. No one is without weaknesses—our struggles may simply not be in the public eye.
4. We Must Pray for Them.
Finally, we should take to heart the Apostle’s request for prayer. Instead of making fun of their situation, let’s lift them up in prayer. Imagine how their families, children, and loved ones feel in the face of public scrutiny.
I recall a similar situation involving a couple I knew. When they went through a divorce, I committed them to prayer, asking God to bring healing and restoration. It is heartbreaking to witness marriages crumble, but we must remember that God is able to mend broken hearts and give people a second chance.
Rather than engaging in blame games and speculation, let’s intercede for them. God’s grace can still abound toward them for good.
Conclusion
It is disheartening when people respond to the misfortune of others with joy, saying, “Even a pastor and a marriage counselor could not save their own marriage.” However, Proverbs 24:17 (NKJV) warns us:
“Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, And do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles.”
This situation may also discourage some from considering marriage, thinking, “If even they failed, what hope is there for the rest of us?” But we must remember that while some marriages fail, others succeed.
My grandparents were married for over 60 years. They were not perfect, nor was their marriage free of challenges, yet they persevered. Long-lasting marriages are possible.
Instead of mocking those who fall, let’s learn from their experiences and strive to build marriages that stand the test of time.
