The family is a basic unit of society. However, its definition and expectations tend to also change with the whims of society. The Lord’s view of the family does not change. It is the most important aspect of our lives here on earth and is central to His plan for our happiness.
In 1995 the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a scriptural proclamation to the world about their stand on the family. In it, the marriage relationship is clearly explained based on scriptural and gospel principles. In short, marriage is to be a partnership and ideally it is a progressive and wholesome relationship between two disciples and God, Himself. Members of the LDS Church believe that marriage, and the family unit it forms, is an eternal contract between a man and a woman and Heavenly Father. They are bound together in a commitment to goodness and happiness and desire to support each other in becoming more Christ-like.
If this is the goal of a marriage, how do our individual roles as disciples of Christ help us toward this type of eternal happiness? Simply put, we practice the same Christ-like traits within our home that we take with us out into the world.
In Genesis 2, the Lord councils Adam and Eve to cleave to each other and become one. When problems arise, our partner is still our first priority. Disciples look to their mate first and remain together and unified with the Lord in their goals and purposes. They do not turn to extended family and friends for comfort and council. They do not speak ill of their partner in front of others.
Marriage and family leaves little place for selfishness. Here, the world would have us think otherwise. But the Lord has said forget yourself and serve, consider another’s needs above your own and yours will be met as well. Following the example of Christ, you should never let a day go by where you have not considered your partner’s happiness and well-being.
Marriage is the ultimate act of charity. It is work and requires us to call into play every attribute of goodness and kindness that we can to support and help each other. When we remember to bring God into our marriages, we draw closer to Him and to each other. No family unit will reach perfection and exclusive happiness in this life. It is a process and commitment to those principles that focus on eternal goodness and a path that will lead us there. It takes firm and sometimes overwhelming commitment, but the Lord has promised us it is worth it. He has never hinted that His paths are easy. He has only assured us that the blessings would be obtainable within our best efforts and joyful in their outcome.
