We are not here on earth solely to concentrate on our own desires. We are here to bless and teach others about Heavenly Father gospel.
Blessing others must first begin at home. Fathers and mothers have an important responsibility of teaching their children the gospel. Doing these things well is our purpose in life. Marriage between a husband and a wife is essential to Heavenly Father’s plan.
Each of our missions in life includes a family. Having the structure of a family helps refine us. In a family we are forced to choose between right and wrong. Home is a laboratory of great learning experiences; where we can learn to be the person we are meant to be.
Heavenly Father expects us to be kind and considerate to our families. Just as we are to those we work with, go to school with and encounter in other ways.
Heavenly Father understands that it will be a struggle for us to overcome the challenges that we face in our families. But, He is there to help us if we are willing to ask. He loves us and He wants us to succeed at making our families the best.
However, if we take this counsel lightly we will have failed in the most important responsibility of our existence.
David O. McKay said it best; “No other success compensates for failure in the home.”
There are two ways we can fail in our homes. First, we fail when we refrain from having a spiritual environment where children are taught to pray and think on the things of the scriptures. Secondly, we fail when we choose not to live in our family situations as Jesus Christ would.
Margaret S. Lifferth, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, shares some profound truth when she say, “In today‘s world, children will need not only a devoted mother and father, but they will need each of us to protect, teach, and love them. Personal obedience and example in every part of our lives are the ultimate gospel lessons for children. So study, learn, and apply the gospel.” (“The Family Is Central to the Creator’s Plan,” Ensign, Feb 2008, 69)
We are to be diligent in this cause. Jesus never said it would be easy only that it would be worth it. However, we will be blessed for all our efforts in the end.
