Thomas Wood

Building upon a Righteous Foundation

While marriage is difficult, and discordant and frustrated marriages are common, yet real, lasting happiness is possible, and marriage can be more an exultant ecstasy than the human mind can conceive. This is within the reach of every couple, every person. (Kimball, 1976)

The ABCs of Successful Development

A. Awareness of or Acquaintance with another person;

B. Buildup of the relationship;

C. Continuation following Commitment to a long-term relationship (which may result in marriage for many couples);

D. Deterioration or Decline in the interdependence of the couple;

E. Ending of the relationship.

(Hawkins, 2011)

The Cold Hard Facts

But interestingly, the cold, hard evidence of marriage's benefits began piling up and gradually amounted to Everest-like proportions. (Hawkins, 2011)

Should We Work It Out?

But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife. . . What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. (Mark 10:6-9)

Later Years of Marriage

The family is ordained of God. Marriage between a man and a woman is essential to His eternal plan . . . The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. (Family, 1995)

The Power of Eternity

Unlike marriages that last only “until death do you part,” temple sealings ensure that death cannot separate loved ones. For marriages to continue after death, they must be sealed in the right place and with the right authority. The right place is the temple and the right authority is the priesthood of God (Doctrine and Covenants 132:7, 15-19).

How to Apply Forgiveness and Repentance

It is not enough to simply try to resist evil or empty our lives of sin. We must fill our lives with righteousness and engage in activities that bring spiritual power. We must immerse ourselves in the scriptures and pray daily for the Lord to give us strength beyond our own. At times, we should fast for special blessings. (Doctrine and Covenants 1:32)

Understanding Abuse

Bring up your children in the love and fear of the Lord; study their dispositions and their temperaments, and deal with them accordingly, never allowing yourself to correct them in the heat of passion; teach them to love you rather than to fear you. (Widtsoe, 1977)