Covenant Marriage

"The temple reminds us that God means for families to be eternal. " That may be one of the most beautiful phrases I've ever read. But in today's world, it also sounds like a fairy tale. "Once upon a time...our family was forever." With the depressingly high divorce rate, one can only wonder if anyone is going to make it to their happily ever after.

The doctrine of eternal families taught by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is different than what is taught by any other religious group. This unique doctrine requires us to take a unique perspective on what makes marriage work.

First, marriage isn't a contract, it is a covenant. What is the difference, you might ask? A contract marriage is between husband and wife. A covenant marriage is between husband, wife, and God. A covenant marriage is a solemn promise between the couple and deity, with promised blessings for keeping promises and staying faithful. Bruce C Hafen has said, "When troubles come to a covenant marriage, the husband and wife work them through. They marry to give and to grow, bound by covenants to each other, to the community, and to God. Contract companions each give 50 percent; covenant companions each give 100 percent." When the focus is on building an eternal marriage, our perspective on problems change. They become something to overcome together, not something to tear a couple apart.

Second, eternal marriages and families are an essential part of God's plan for us on earth. Men and women compliment and complete each other and their different strengths are an important part of their marriage. These differences actually allow men and women to work together to build eternal families. Both men and women are needed to bring children into the world. A home with a mother and father is best for children, communities and society as a whole. The stability a covenant marriage provides is comforting and uplifting.

Finally, in a covenant marriage, husband and wife are drawn to the Lord as they keep the promises made in holy temples. According to David A Bednar, "The couple learns to serve and cherish one another, as they share life experiences and grow together and become one, and as they are blessed through the uniting of their distinctive natures, they begin to realize the fulfillment that our Heavenly Father desires for His children." The greatest joy we will find in life will be found within families. That is God's plan; to find joy and fulfillment in keeping promises and learning and growing.
Marriage today is difficult at best. But by following God's pattern and plan for families, we give ourselves the best chance for happiness.

**Week 4**