Importance of Fidelity in Marriage

Satan is real! He is working hard to break up families by encouraging many so-called innocent relationships between those of the opposite gender. Some may be tempted to "justify" these friendships as they are co-workers, neighbors, ward members, etc. However, we must remember that Satan is also subtle. He has a way of luring people into relationships or situations that can become extremely dangerous. He is always trying to find a way to destroy the family, particularly marriage between husband and wife. We must be ever vigilant in protecting and nourishing our marriages. We can do this by honoring marital vows with complete fidelity as stated in, "The Family, A Proclamation to the World."  We must ever be grateful (and faithful) for our spouse.

In his book, H. Wallace Goodard shares several suggestions that can help us prevent trouble or temptations. My favorite was this one which states:

"Celebrate the sweet gift of companionship. The amazing message from our marriage partner is. "I am trusting you with my life, my body, my hopes, my dreams. Please be kind and gentle." Each of us should rejoice in the sacred gift of spousal trust. If we have squandered any part of it, we should work to re-qualify for it."

Isn't that beautiful? It is a powerful message for each of us to consider. We have chosen to be with our spouse and have trusted our whole souls to them and them to us. We must cherish this union! We won't be perfect at this but as we put forth our best efforts and include the Lord in our relationship, he will help us be successful and withstand the trials we will inevitably face.

 I also loved the quote that Goddard shares in his book from a wise colleague of his, James Marshall. "The grass is greener on the side of the fence you water. If we tend our own little patch, even with all its weeds and rocks, we will find a joy that passes understanding. If we sit on the fence and dream, we will lose our allotted garden spot. And the devil knows that."

What an incredible visual this is! It is easy to find fault and think the grass might be greener somewhere else from time to time. However, this is a message directly from Satan himself. Don't entertain it! Instead, let us be grateful and seek the good in our spouse. I am reminded of a quote from our dear prophet, Russell M. Nelson from a conference talk a few years back, he stated, "My dear brothers and sisters, the joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives." When we focus on the marriage covenant and remaining on the covenant path and its great importance in Heavenly Father's plan, we will find joy in loving, serving, strengthening and being a faithful spouse no matter what circumstances we find ourselves in.

                                                                               References

Goddard, H. W. (2009). Drawing Heaven Into Your Marriage : Eternal Doctrines that Change Relationships. Cedar Hills, UT : JoymapPub., c2009.