According to scripture, what should a spouse do if the other continues in willful abuse?

The answer focuses on the understanding of marriage as a covenant but also recognizes that the well-being and safety of individuals are paramount. Scripture suggests that while marriage involves commitment, it is not intended to perpetuate harm or abuse. Seeking divorce as a last resort aligns with the principle that God desires relationships characterized by love, safety, and mutual respect.

In instances of willful abuse, the appropriate response involves seeking help and, when necessary, legal separation or divorce to protect oneself from ongoing harm. This approach not only addresses the severity of the situation but also acknowledges the seriousness of the commitment one made in marriage.

The other choices lean towards enduring the abuse or viewing it as a testing of faith, which can lead to further harm and conflict with the biblical understanding of love and care between spouses. Recognizing the need for intervention or separation reflects a responsible and scripturally aligned decision in the context of abuse.