When one spouse gives up on a marriage, the lack of love grows anger, grief, isolation, and frustration. Does the Bible then say we can walk away from our commitment? No.
1 Samuel 25:3 tells us how Abigail honored her vows to a cruel, obstinate, stubborn man. "…now the man's name was Nabal, and his wife's name was Abigail. And the woman was intelligent and beautiful in appearance, but the man was harsh and evil in his dealings…" The chapter continues the story telling us rich Nabal refused to give food to King David's hungry men. David was so angry, he said he would punish Nabal's greed by killing all the men (including servants) in Nabal's grand estate.
Well, when Abigail heard this, she was horrified and ashamed. She immediately prepared provisions for King David and went to greet him with a great load of good food. David's heart was softened. He blessed Abigail for her wise actions. Abigail returned home, and told Nabal the story. Nabal then died of a heart attack.
What happened to Abigail? 1 Samuel 25:40, "…servants of David came to Abigail at Carmel, they spoke to her, saying, 'David has sent us to you to take you as his wife.'" Wow! God rewarded Abigail for her fidelity and years of suffering by making her David's wife.
God does not always reward our good behaviors in this life. However, we can be sure that when we honor our commitments according to God's will, our character is beautifully developed. And in the resurrection, we will be rewarded for our suffering.
