W04: Doctrines of Eternal Marriage

Elder Bednar said, “We have been strongly counseled by the First Presidency to devote our best efforts to strengthening of marriage and the home.” The family, and especially our marriages are a part of God’s plan. We came to the earth to receive a body and create a family. Once we make that commitment to be married and sealed in the temple, we have to continue to work at keeping the commandments and putting our family first. Working together as a couple with the same values and goals is essential to having a successful marriage. When a couple understands how marriage fits into the plan of happiness, then it becomes clearer on why we do the things we do.

Being in a marriage is more than just being friends sharing a house. We can talk together, share feelings, and show compassion, and empathy for one another. It’s important to involve God in our journey so that we will have the tools needed to stay close to our spouse.

We need to be aware of the adversary that he is there and wants us to fail. I received a text from a dear friend today. She wanted to tell me that she was getting a divorce. She explained that her husband has been having an affair since January. She had stood by him in hopes to help him through the repentance process and she so desperately wanted to keep her family together. But, a few weeks ago he said he decided to stay with his girlfriend and wanted a divorce. Her and I texted about Satan and his hand in every marriage. He wants us all to be miserable. I love this family dearly and they have always been an active part in the wards they have been in. Nobody is immune to temptation and the evil that surrounds us. Elder Hafen explains the way Satan can influence the way we think when he said, “he exaggerates the need for having space, getting out, and being left alone. Some people believe him.”

President Smith talks about the need to put God’s kingdom first. Keeping the commandments is talked about as one of the most important things we can do. I was evaluating the genogram and viewing the multiple divorces in my family. In most cases there was breaking of the commandments. Most of the divorces were clear to see that one member in the marriage decided to take a path that was not in line with the Lord. I know in my own marriage I must continue to take inventory as to the things we need to improve on. It’s good to discuss these things with your spouse so that each can have a part in finding ways to improve. There is always room for improvement.