Laura Lentz, the wife of former Hillsong church pastor Carl Lentz, has made her first public statement months after her husband was fired for "moral failures".
"I have taken time away from social media because it was not good for my soul," Laura wrote on an Instagram post.
In November last year, Carl Lentz was made redundant as lead pastor of Hillsong New York for having had an affair. The former pastor acknowledged not to have upheld the standards of a Christian leader and admitted he had been unfaithful.
Alongside a picture of tall palm trees, Laura explained how the trees were symbolic of her current situation.
"I have looked at these palm trees every day for the past few months & there are many symbolic meanings to these amazing trees. a few that have resonated with me during this season of my life: they are strong, can weather the biggest storms, they always grow upwards. freedom, righteousness, reward, resurrection just to name a few...
"I have taken time away from social media because it was not good for my soul, i have blocked & deleted more people & comments than i can count. trolls are cowards, SOME "Christians" are anything but kind, gracious, or loving...but that won't stop me from growing upwards & getting stronger," Laura said.
The news of Carl Lentz's infidelity sparked criticism across the world as he was often referred to as a "celebrity pastor". He publicly baptised Justin and Hailey Bieber, and Selena Gomez and Kevin Durant were also among his congregants.
Laura continued by explaining what she had learned during her "darkest valley".
"I have learnt a lot about myself over the past few months. now more than ever i know the kindness of God, His grace, forgiveness & strength. i have found true friendships- the ones who have been with me on the mountaintops are the same ones who are with me during my darkest valley!! i will not forget who abandoned us, but i choose to keep my heart free of bitterness & remain thankful for those that have stayed & loved us.
She concluded her post by emphasising that she does not want to judge, nor does she want to be judged but rather wants to be known as a woman "who sees the good in people".
"One thing a friend told me during this time is, "i would rather be accused of being too gracious toward someone, over being accused of judging someone too harshly"... i want to be known as a woman who sees the good in people & truly loves people unconditionally.."