L3 Threats To Marriage

In 1995 The Proclamation to the World was announced. At the time, I thought to myself, “Well ok, that’s nothing new”. As amazing as it was, it seemed to be common knowledge. Now, it is easy to see that the Lord was preparing the world for what was to come. We have a clear definition of marriage and the family structure from God. Same-sex marriage is a tough topic to have at times. It is becoming increasingly common and families are affected by it. Satan uses it to cause contention and upset. Many people feel that because we do not agree with same-sex marriage that it also means we do not love those who choose to live it. This is not true. People have the agency to live and choose how they will live their life and so do I.  

I believe that marriage is ordained of God, not man. Marriage is between a man and a woman.

 The Divine Institute of Marriage reminds us about these important scriptures.

“Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, and said, for this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?”  Matthew 19:4–5.  From the beginning, the sacred nature of marriage was closely linked to the power of procreation. After creating Adam and Eve, God commanded them to “be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth,” Genesis 1:28 and they brought forth children, forming the first family. Only a man and a woman together have the natural biological capacity to conceive children. This power of procreation—to create life and bring God’s spirit children into the world—is divinely given. Misuse of this power undermines the institution of the family. [M. Russell Ballard, “What Matters Most Is What Lasts Longest,” Ensign, Nov. 2005, 41–44]

I believe marriage is sacred and is central to our Heavenly Fathers plan. We are to multiply, replenish and teach our children. Both, a mother and a father are needed in the home. Studies have shown that the absence of either parent has a negative effect on children and society as a whole.

The Proclamation to the world states, “We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society.” [26] “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102.

So, what can I do in a world that is trying to redefine Marriage and family?

I can stand as a disciple of Christ. I can teach my children that marriage is ordained by God and is between woman and man. Marriage is needed to fulfill the plan of salvation and the only way to receive Eternal happiness. I will also teach my children to love and respect others no matter what their belief, choices or relationship choices.  We are all God’s children and loves each and every one of us. I can agree, to disagree and still love you. 

L2 Marriage Trends; and Divorce

Growing up I dreamed about what it would be like to be married and have a family. It was always happy thoughts and of course, there was never a negative thought. I had no idea how hard marriage could be. I had no idea how hard Satan would try everything he could to destroy the sacredness f marriage and family. Families and marriages are struggling in society. There has been a rapid decline of marriage in the nation. 50% of marriages are ending in divorce. Divorce and single-family homes are having a negative effect on our children. Children show signs of emotional problems, conduct or disobedience issues, poor academics, poor self-esteem, and social issues. Cohabitating couples are two times as likely as married couples to break up before a child turns 12. Children are (significantly) more likely for physical, mental and emotional abuse.

“Many of the social restraints which in the past have helped to reinforce and to shore up the family are dissolving and disappearing. The time will come when only those who believe deeply and actively in the family will be able to preserve their families in the midst of the gathering evil around us.”   -President Spencer W. Kimball. How can we address this issue and restore the beauty of marriage and family? 

I think once we recognize the issue, we need to be aware of and strengthen ourselves and our families.

Dallin H. Oaks said

“The best way to avoid divorce from an unfaithful, abusive, or unsupportive spouse is to avoid marriage to such a person. If you wish to marry well, inquire well.” 

Marriage is not easy. Choose a spouse that has common goals, values, and desires for the family and marriage. Together, partners can work for that goal and work through the tough times together.

As a little girl, I had wonderful examples of loving and happy marriages. As I have grown older and the longer, I’ve been married, I clearly see how Satan is working on destroying the family. I have family members and friends that have divorced.  I have seen first-hand how the children and extended families are affected by divorce. I can’t change others. I can strengthen my marriage and family. I can teach my children the sacredness and beauty of marriage. I can choose every day to love my spouse.

The family proclamation states, “Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities.

Marriage Is....

Marriage is choosing to love the same person every day.