Eternal Families Quotes

JESUS CHRIST & THE PLAN OF SALVATION:

"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." (Rev. 3:20) Are we satisfied with far less than the Lord is willing to give us, essentially opting to go it alone here rather than partner with the Divine? (Sheri Dew) The Atonement of the Only Begotten Son of God in the flesh is the crucial foundation upon which all Christian doctrine rests and the greatest expression of divine love this world has ever been given. Its importance in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints cannot be overstated. Every other principle, commandment, and virtue of the restored gospel draws its significance from this pivotal event. (Jeffrey R. Holland, "The Atonement," Ensign, March 2008) "Nothing in the entire plan of salvation compares in any way in importance with the ATONEMENT. It is the most important single thing that has ever occurred in the entire history of created things." (Elder Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, 60.) "The life of Adam and Eve is the story of receiving the Atonement, which empowered them to overcome their separation from God and all opposition until they were eternally 'at one' with the Lord and with each other." (Elder Bruce C. Hafen) WITHOUT THE ATONEMENT our lives would be different... (BY TAD C. CALLISTER) 1. There would be no resurrection. (2 Nephi 9:7)2. Our spirits would become subject to the devil. He would have "all power over you" and "seal you his"— "angels to a devil." (Alma 34:35) 3. We would be "shut out from the presence of our God. (2 Nephi 9:9) 4. We would endure a never-ending torment. (Mosiah 2:39) 5. WE WOULD BE WITHOUT HOPE. (1 Cor. 15:14,19) "The basis of all righteous hope, is the person of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In Him all hope has its existence. Without Him there is no hope. But because He was and is and ever will be, there was, is, and ever will be hope...In Christ who lives and loves and works miracles now there is always hope." (Elder John H. Groberg, Hope, 48, 65)

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF AGENCY IN REVELATION?

"God grant us wisdom in these things. God grant us the courage and the ability to stand on our own feet and use our agency and the abilities and capacities we possess; then let's be sufficiently humble and amenable to the Spirit to bow our will to his will, to get his ratifying, confirming seal of approval, to get in our lives in that way the spirit of revelation."(Elder Bruce R. McConkie) Eight different purposes or types of revelation: (Elder Oaks) 1. Testifying 2. Prophesying 3. Comforting 4. Uplifting 5. Informing 6. Restraining 7. Confirming 8. Impelling POSSIBLE REASONS WHY WE DO NOT RECEIVE REVELATION : Stewardship Timing Faith, lessons to be learned, self-reliance... Choose between alternatives that are equally acceptable or both are equally unacceptable. Some future event makes the decision not necessary. Trivial- you choose. "President Lorenzo Snow declared that it is the grand privilege of every Latter-day Saint... To have the manifestations of the spirit every day of our lives."(Elder Dallin H. Oaks, "Revelation," BYU Devotional, 1981.) "Your problem and mine is not to get God to speak to us; few of us have reached the point where he has been compelled to turn away from us. Our problem is to hear." (President Eyring, To Draw Closer to God, 1997, p. 29) As we study things out in our minds, inspiration will come to our minds in three common ways: 1-sudden strokes of ideas 2-enlightenment—things make sense to us, connections are made—AHA 3-knowledge or experiences brought to our remembrances."(Joseph Smith, Teachings of the Prophet.. P151) "If the voice of the Lord is still and small and whispers to us, then we must find ways to reduce the inner noise in our lives and create times of inner stillness and quiet. There are many sources of inner noise: (Elder Gerald N. Lund, The Voice of the Lord, BYU, 1997)Sin, Anger and contention, Physical tiredness, stress, busyness, apathy and worry (DISTRACTIONS),Irreverence,"Having your Wants so high that you don't listen" "Be STILL and know that I am God."(D&C 101:16) "... After you have gotten the message, after you have paid the price to feel His love and hear the word of the Lord, go forward. Don't fear, Don't vacillate, don't quibble, don't whine... Beware the temptation to retreat from a good thing. If it was right when you prayed about it and trusted it and lived for it, it is right now. Don't give up when the pressure mounts. Certainly don't give in to that being who is bent on the destruction of your happiness. Face your doubts. Master your fears. "Cast not therefore your confidence." Stay the course and see the beauty of life unfold for you." (Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, Cast Not Away Therefore Your Confidence, Ensign, Mar 2000)​​​​​​​ "I believe that in our own individual ways, God takes us to the grove or the mountain or the temple and there shows us the wonder of what His plan is for us. We may not see it as fully as Moses or Nephi or the brother of Jared did, but we see as much as we need to see in order to know the Lord's will for us and to know that He loves us beyond comprehension." (Elder Holland, Cast Not Away Your Confidence, Ensign, March 2000.)

UNIT 6- ETERNAL ORDINANCES AND COVENANTS

"I remember my deep sense of gratitude that my sweetheart and I had been sealed eternally to each other and to our children... I realized that our marriage in the temple was my most important accomplishment. Honors bestowed upon me by men could not approach the inner peace provided by sealings performed in the house of the Lord." (President Nelson)

BE HAPPY SINGLE:

"It is one of the great ironies of our age that we are blessed with so much and yet we can be so unhappy. The wonders of prosperity and technology overwhelm us and shower us with security, entertainment, instant gratification, and convenience. And yet all around us we see so much unhappiness... Happiness doesn't come as a result of luck or accident. It most certainly doesn't come from having all of our wishes come true. Happiness doesn't come from external circumstances. It comes from the inside—regardless of what is happening around us." President Dieter F. Uchtdorf"All is Well," Ensign, July 2015 "I have yet to see marriage, by itself, turn an unhappy person into a happy person. A really happy married person is almost always one who was or could have been happy as a single person... While we are striving for quality conduct in our lives, we must ever realize that being single will never be as painful as being married to the wrong person. Avoid getting married just to be married." Elder Marvin J. Ashton"Be a Quality Person,"Ensign, February 1993

HOW DOES CHRIST'S ATONEMENT MAKE PROGRESSION AND ETERNAL MARRIAGE POSSIBLE?

"Jesus Christ took upon Himself the sins of the world and it is only through faith in Him and obedience to the laws and ordinances of His gospel that salvation and exaltation are possible (Alma 34:8). Because of the redeeming sacrifice of the Son of God, eternal families are possible. Without the Atonement, no one could live in God's presence or inherit all He has, or be sealed for eternity. The Atonement allows God's children to be reconciled to Him (Eph. 2:16); to be cleansed from all sin (D&C 76:52); to be sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise (D&C 76:53); to become gods (D&C 76:58) and receive all that God has (D&C 76:59); to be made perfect (D&C 76:69); and to dwell forever in the presence of God and Christ in the celestial kingdom as husbands and wives in eternal families. (Judd, Dorius, and Dollahite)

DISCOVERING TRUTH:

"My young friends, as you accept the responsibility to seek after truth with an open mind and a humble heart, you will become more tolerant of others, more open to listen, more prepared to understand, more inclined to build up instead of tearing down, and more willing to go where the Lord wants you to go...I believe our Father in Heaven is pleased with His children when they use their talents and mental faculties to earnestly discover truth." (President Dieter F. Uchtdorf) 3 Levels of dealing with ambiguity:(Elder Hafen) 1. "Optimists"- Blind obedience 2. "Pessimists"- skepticism becomes a guiding philosophy "When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God.." (2 Nephi 9:28) 3. "Improver"- a loving and knowing kind of obedience— "WHERE WE NOT ONLY VIEW THINGS WITH OUR EYES WIDE OPEN, BUT WITH OUR HEARTS WIDE OPEN AS WELL." "Our Heavenly Father knew how difficult it would be for us to sift through all the competing noise and discover truth during our mortality. He knew that Satan would try to deceive us. So He gave us the heavenly gift of the Holy Ghost to illuminate our minds, teach us, and testify to us of the truth." (Elder Uchtdorf)

WOMEN & THE PRIESTHOOD:

"Our Church doctrine places women equal to and yet different from men. God does not regard either gender as better or more important than the other... When men and women go to the temple, they are both endowed with the same power, which is priesthood power. ... Access to the power and the blessings of the priesthood is available to all of God's children." - Elder M. Russell Ballard, 2014 "President Gordon B. Hinckley explained that it was the Lord, not man, 'who designated that men in His Church should hold the priesthood and that it was also the Lord who endowed women with capabilities to round out this great and marvelous organization, which is the Church and kingdom of God.' When all is said and done, the Lord has not revealed why He has organized His Church as He has." (Elder Ballard) "As baptized, endowed daughters of God, we have the privilege of: Receiving the gift and power of the Holy Ghost Receiving personal revelation Being endowed in the temple with godly power and with the knowledge to access that power Leading, serving and teaching by the Spirit Having angels as our associates Receiving spiritual gifts—including charity, spiritual intuition, and moral courage, (which are found in women in abundance) Receiving all of the blessings of the Atonement Entering the new and everlasting covenant of marriage Bearing and rearing children and becoming partners with the Almighty in the progression of His children Most important, we have the opportunity to receive eternal life. As Paul taught the Romans: We are 'heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.' WHAT DO MORMON WOMEN GET? POTENTIALLY, WE GET EVERYTHING!!" (Sheri Dew, Women and the Priesthood, p. 134-135) "WHEN ALL IS SAID AND DONE, EACH OF US HAS THE PRIVILEGE OF CHOOSING WHETHER OR NOT WE WILL BELIEVE THAT GOD IS OUR FATHER, THAT JESUS IS THE CHRIST, AND THAT THEY HAVE A PLAN DESIGNED TO HELP US RETURN HOME TO THEM. ... OUR TESTIMONIES AND OUR PEACE OF MIND AND OUR WELL-BEING BEGIN WITH THE WILLINGNESS TO BELIEVE THAT OUR FATHER IN HEAVEN DOES INDEED KNOW BEST." ( Elder Ballard) " And he that receiveth my servants receiveth me: And he that receiveth me receiveth my Father; And he that receiveth my Father receiveth my Father's kingdom; therefore all that my Father hath shall be given unto him." (D&C 84:36-38)

ATONEMENT & ADVERSITY:

"Our understanding of the Atonement is hardly a shield against sorrow; rather, it is a rich source of strength to deal productively with the disappointments and heartbreaks that form the deliberate fabric of mortal life. The gospel was given us to heal our pain, not to prevent it."(Hafen, "Beauty for Ashes: The Atonement of Jesus Christ," Ensign, April 1997, 39)

UNIT 7A- DATING & COURTSHIP

"There is nothing more powerful than love, nothing so motivating or that touches so many lives. There have doubtless been more books written, more movies made, and more songs sung about love and falling in love than any other topic and, perhaps, all other topics combined. Finding your eternal valentine is the ultimate treasure hunt." (Elder Lynn G. Robbins, Finding Your Sweetheart, BYU-I address, Feb. 2002) "Latter-day Saints place an unusually strong emphasis on marriage, believing that marriage is ordained of God (D&C 49:15) and is a prerequisite for obtaining the highest heavenly state after mortality (D&C 131:1-4; see Exaltation). "Because of the belief that people should be married and the doctrine that they can maintain marital ties throughout eternity, Latter-day Saints take dating and courtship more seriously than those for whom marriage has less religious significance." (Daniel H. Ludlow, Encyclopedia of Mormonism, 358) I remind you that the association you now enjoy as students is probably the best time of your lives to find your own beloved eternal companion. Do so with a prayer in your heart. It will be the most important decision you will ever make. It will influence your life from now through all eternity. - Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, BYU devotional, October 31, 2006 What has made dating an endangered species? Here are some contributing factors: The cultural tides in our world run strongly against commitments in family relationships. The leveling effect of the women's movement has contributed to discourage dating. As women's options have increased and some have become more aggressive, some men have become reluctant to take traditional male initiatives, such as asking for dates, lest they be thought to qualify for the dreaded label "male chauvinist." Hanging out is glamorized on TV programs about singles. The meaning and significance of a "date" has also changed in such a way as to price dating out of the market. (from Elder Dallin H. Oaks, The Dedication of a Lifetime, CES Fireside, 1 May 2005, Oakland, California). These pressures against commitments obviously serve the devil's opposition to the Father's plan for His children. That plan relies on covenants or commitments kept. Whatever draws us away from commitments weakens our capacity to participate in the plan. Dating involves commitments, if only for a few hours. Hanging out requires no commitments, at least not for the men if the women provide the food and shelter. (Elder Oaks - The Dedication of a Lifetime - May 2005) The doctrine of the plan leads men and women to hope and prepare for eternal marriage, and it defeats the fears and overcomes the uncertainties that may cause some individuals to delay or avoid marriage. (David A. Bednar) The "list" is not for evaluating someone else - the list is for you and what you need to become. And so if there are three primary characteristics that [you] hope to find in an eternal companion, then those are the three things [you] ought to be working to become - then [you] will be attractive to someone who has those things. ...You are not on a shopping spree looking for the greatest value with a series of characteristics. You become what you hope your spouse will be and you'll have a greater likelihood of finding that person. Elder David A. Bednar, Mormon Channel, Conversations, Episode 1

*RELIABLE SOURCES: WORDS OF LIVING PROPHET, HARMONIZED SCRIPTURES, UNITED VOICE OF THE 1ST PRES/QUORUM OF 12, REPEATED TEACHINGS OF GA'S, CHURCH PUB

"Unanimity "provides a check on bias and personal idiosyncrasies. It ensures that God rules through the Spirit, not man through majority or compromise. It ensures that the best wisdom and experience is focused on an issue before the deep, unassailable impressions of revealed direction are received." (James E. Faust, Ensign, November 1989, 8). Are Prophets Infallible? "We recognize that our forebears were human. They doubtless made mistakes.... There was only one perfect man who ever walked the earth. The Lord has used imperfect people in the process of building his perfect society.. If some of them occasionally stumbled, or if their characters may have been slightly flawed in one way or another, the wonder is the greater that they accomplished so much." - Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, "The Continuous Pursuit of Truth," Ensign, April 1986, p. 5

HOW DO WE OBTAIN CHARITY?

"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ.."(Moroni 7:48) ●"DON'T JUST PRAY TO MARRY THE ONE YOU LOVE. INSTEAD, PRAY TO LOVE THE ONE YOU MARRY." INCREASE IN HEAVENLY KNOWLEDGE:"The children of Zion love in proportion to the Heavenly knowledge which they have received; for love keeps pace with knowledge, and as the one increases so does the other, and when knowledge is perfected, love will be perfected also. (Orson Pratt, The Seer, 156) "Of course such Christ-like staying power in romance and marriage requires more than any of us really have. It requires something more, an endowment from heaven... The love we each yearn for and cling to- is bestowed upon true followers of Christ." (Elder Jeffrey R. Holland) LESSONS FROM PAUL ABOUT THE MEANING OF CHARITY: ●"For now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face; now I know in part; but then shall I know even as I am known." (1 Cor. 13:12) ●"God is busy building a race of men who know how to love. I believe that the fate of the earth itself depends on the progress we make- and that the time is now very short. As for what we'll find in the next world, here too I believe that what we'll discover there depends on how well we get on with the business of loving, here and now.George G. Ritchie "...If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us...And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect...."(1 John 4: 12,16-17) ●"That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend... and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God." (Ephesians 3:17-19)

UNIT 1- THE ETERNAL FAMILY AND THE NATURE OF GOD

"Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come; for behold, it cometh quickly, saith the Lord. Amen." (D&C 87:8)

WOMEN AND THE PRIESTHOOD:

"Whoever functions in an office or calling received from one who holds priesthood keys exercises priesthood authority in performing her or his assigned duties. Whoever exercises priesthood authority should forget about their rights and concentrate on their responsibilities." (Elder Dallin H. Oaks, The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood, Ensign, May 2014) "President Gordon B. Hinckley explained that it was the Lord, not man, 'who designated that men in His Church should hold the priesthood and that it was also the Lord who endowed women with capabilities to round out this great and marvelous organization, which is the Church and kingdom of God.' When all is said and done, the Lord has not revealed why He has organized His Church as He has." (Elder Ballard) "Our Church doctrine places women equal to and yet different from men. God does not regard either gender as better or more important than the other... When men and women go to the temple, they are both endowed with the same power, which is priesthood power. ... Access to the power and the blessings of the priesthood is available to all of God's children." (Elder M. Russell Ballard, 2014) "Woman shares with man the blessings of the Priesthood...In the glorified state of the blessed hereafter, husband and wife will administer in their respective stations, seeing and understanding alike, and co-operating to the full in the government of their family kingdom...Then shall woman reign by Divine right, a queen in the resplendent realm of her glorified state, even as exalted man shall stand, priest and king unto the Most High God. Mortal eye cannot see nor mind comprehend the beauty, glory, and majesty of a righteous woman made perfect in the celestial kingdom of God." (James E. Talmage, "The Eternity of Sex," Young Woman's Journal, October 1914, 602-3) What do Latter-day Saint women get? "As baptized, endowed daughters of God, we have the privilege of: Receiving the gift and power of the Holy Ghost Receiving personal revelation Being endowed in the temple with godly power and with the knowledge to access that power Leading, serving and teaching by the Spirit Having angels as our associates Receiving spiritual gifts—including charity, spiritual intuition, and moral courage, (which are found in women in abundance) Receiving all of the blessings of the Atonement Entering the new and everlasting covenant of marriage Bearing and rearing children and becoming partners with the Almighty in the progression of His children Most important, we have the opportunity to receive eternal life. As Paul taught the Romans: We are 'heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.' WHAT DO MORMON WOMEN GET? POTENTIALLY, WE GET EVERYTHING!!" (Sheri Dew, Women and the Priesthood, p. 134-135) "WHEN ALL IS SAID AND DONE, EACH OF US HAS THE PRIVILEGE OF CHOOSING WHETHER OR NOT WE WILL BELIEVE THAT GOD IS OUR FATHER, THAT JESUS IS THE CHRIST, AND THAT THEY HAVE A PLAN DESIGNED TO HELP US RETURN HOME TO THEM. ... OUR TESTIMONIES AND OUR PEACE OF MIND AND OUR WELL-BEING BEGIN WITH THE WILLINGNESS TO BELIEVE THAT OUR FATHER IN HEAVEN DOES INDEED KNOW BEST." ( Elder Ballard)

LABORATORY FOR GODHOOD:

"Your marriage is a laboratory for godhood. The responsibilities and opportunities of a marriage in its mortal sphere, are analogous to the work and purposes of our heavenly parents. You will beget children; you will teach and inspire them; you will learn to grant to them agency and independence; your work will be to bring to pass their eternal life. But parenthood is not the only crucible for exaltation. You and your spouse must develop an eternal relationship. A celestial marriage provides each partner with an unequalled opportunity to become selfless, loving, godlike—first in their relations to the other and then to their fellowman... With each trial, challenge, and even failure that is met and overcome, your life will be transformed and strengthened." (CES Manual- Achieving a Celestial Marriage, p.65) "If we really try, our home can be a bit of heaven here on earth. The thoughts we think, the deeds we do, the lives we live influence not only the success of our earthly journey; they mark the way to our eternal goals."(President Thomas S. Monson, Ensign, Oct. 1988, 80-81) "Then shall they be gods, because they have no end; therefore shall they be from everlasting to everlasting, because they continue; then shall they be above all, because all things are subject unto them. Then shall they be gods, because they have all power, and the angels are subject unto them." (D & C 132:20) "Therefore, I would that ye should be perfect even as I, or your Father who is in heaven is perfect." (3 Nephi 12:48) "If men do not comprehend the character of God they do not comprehend themselves."When we understand the character of God, and know how to come to Him, he begins to unfold the heavens to us, and to tell us all about it. When we are ready to come to him, he is ready to come to us." (Prophet Joseph Smith, The King Follett Sermon)

1. STUDY THE QUESTION OUT IN YOUR MIND. FROM YOUR OWN WISDOM- WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU SHOULD DO?

(1. sudden stroke of ideas, 2- enlightenment- things that make sense to us, connections are made- aha or, 3- having knowledge or experiences brought to our remembrances) 2. HOW WOULD YOU LIKE THE LORD TO HELP YOU? 3. SEEK CONFIRMATION FROM THE LORD ON YOUR DECISION. Be Still! What "feelings" do you have? What impressions/ ideas do you have? "The spiritual part of us and the emotional part of us are so closely linked that it is possible to mistake an emotional impulse for something spiritual. We occasionally find people who receive what they assume to be spiritual promptings from God, when those promptings are either centered in the emotions or are from the adversary. It is not wise to wrestle with the revelations with such insistence as to demand immediate answers or blessings to your liking. You cannot force spiritual things. Such words as compel, coerce, constrain, pressure, demand, do not describe our privileges with the Spirit... You can create a climate to foster growth...; but you cannot force or compel..."(President Boyd K. Packer, The Candle of the Lord, Ensign, Jan. 1983, p. 53)

THE FALL AND ADAM & EVE:

*"God conversed with him [Adam] face to face. In his presence he was permitted to stand, and from his own mouth he was permitted to receive instruction. He heard his [God's] voice, walked before him and gazed upon his glory, while intelligence burst upon his understanding." (Prophet Joseph Smith, Lectures on Faith, 13) *"When Adam and Eve received the first commandment, they were in a transitional state, no longer in the spirit world but with physical bodies not yet subject to death and not yet capable of procreation. They could not fulfill the Adam and Eve came to this world to perform exactly the part that they acted in the Garden of Eden; and I will say, they were ordained of God to do what they did, and it was therefore expected that they would eat of the forbidden fruit in order that man might know both good and evil by passing through this school of experience which this life affords us. (The Discourses of Wilford Woodruff, Pg.233) *"The Fall was not an accident, not an obstruction to God's plan, and not a wrong turn in the course of humanity. "The Lord...created the earth that it should be inhabited" by his children (1 Ne. 17:36), and since Adam and Eve would have had no children in their Edenic condition, the Fall was a benefit to mankind. It was part of the Father's plan, being both foreknown to him and essential to the human family. All these things were "done in the wisdom of him who knoweth all things" (2 Ne. 2:24) (Encyclopedia of Mormonism) *"Father's first commandment without transgressing the barrier between the bliss of the Garden of Eden and the terrible trials and wonderful opportunities of mortal life" (ELDER Dallin H. Oaks, "The Great Plan of Happiness," Ensign, Nov. 1993, 72-73). *"Some Christians condemn Eve for her act, concluding that she and her daughters are somehow flawed by it. Not the Latter-day Saints! Informed by revelation, we celebrate Eve's act and honor her wisdom and courage in the great episode called the Fall (Dallin H. Oaks, "The Great Plan of Happiness," Ensign, Nov. 1993, 73). *"Joseph Smith taught that it was not a 'sin,' because God had decreed it (see The Words of Joseph Smith, ed. Andrew F. Ehat and Lyndon W. Cook, Provo, Utah: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1980, p. 63). *Elder Joseph Fielding Smith said: 'I never speak of the part Eve took in this fall as a sin, nor do I accuse Adam of a sin. ... This was a transgression of the law, but not a sin ... for it was something that Adam and Eve had to do!' (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols., Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1954-56, 1:114-15) *"Elohim [our Heavenly Father] certainly could not force innocent parties out of the garden and still be a just God. . . Adam and Eve--and we--knowingly and lovingly absolved God of the responsibility for the 'thorns and thistles' of a fallen world that was personally chosen by us, not capriciously imposed by him." (Jeffrey R. Holland, (Christ and the New Covenant: The Messianic Message of the Book of Mormon [1997], 203, 204).

THE CREATION AND ETERNAL FAMILIES:

*"Happily for us, brothers and sisters, the vastness of the Lord's creations is matched by the personalness of His purposes! Therefore, in the expansiveness of space, there is stunning personalness, for God knows and loves each of us! (see 1 Nephi 11:17). We are not ciphers in unexplained space! While the Psalmist's query was, "What is man, that thou art mindful of him?" (Psalm 8:4), mankind is at the very center of God's work. We are the sheep of His hand and the people of His pasture (see Psalms 79:13; 95:7; 100:3). His work includes our immortalization—accomplished by Christ's glorious Atonement! Think of it, brothers and sisters, even with their even with their extensive longevity, stars are not immortal, but you are. (Elder Neal A. Maxwell - Our Creators Cosmos) *"And were it possible that man could number the particles of the earth, yea, million of earths like this, it would not be a beginning to thy creations." Moses 7:30 (June 1930) *"Abraham received promises concerning his seed, and of the fruit of his loins—from whose loins ye are, namely, my servant Joseph—which were to continue so long as they were in the world; and as touching Abraham and his seed, out of the world they should continue; both in the world and out of the world should they continue as innumerable as the stars; or if ye were to count the sand upon the seashore ye could not number them." D&C 132:30 *This earth is but one of many creations over which God presides. "Worlds without number have I created," He said. "And I also created them for mine own purpose; and by the Son I created them, which is mine Only Begotten." Grand as it is, planet Earth is part of something even grander--that great plan of God. Simply summarized, the earth was created that families might be. Scripture explains that a husband and wife "shall be one flesh, and all this that the earth might answer the end of its creation." -President Russell M. Nelson "Creation," General Conference, 2000) *"It is held by some that Adam was not the first man upon this earth, and that the original human being was a development from lower orders of the animal creation. These, however, are the theories of men. The word of the Lord declares that Adam was "the first man of all men" (Moses 1:34), and we are therefore in duty bound to regard him as the primal parent of our race. It was shown to the brother of Jared that all men were created in the beginning after the image of God; and whether we take this to mean the spirit or the body, or both, it commits us to the same conclusion: Man began life as a human being, in the likeness of our Heavenly Father." *"There seems to be little evidence that the Creator of the universe was ever in a hurry. Everywhere, on this bounteous and beautiful earth, and to the farthest reaches of the firmament, there is evidence of patient purpose and planning and working and waiting." (Elder Richard L. Evans, Conference Report, Oct. 1952, 52.)s of our heavenly Father." *"We do not have to worry about the patience of God, because he is the personification of patience, no matter where we have been, what we have done, or what we, to this moment have allowed ourselves to think of ourselves... "God will not forsake [us]." (Elder Marvin J. Ashton, Speeches of the year: BYU Devotional Addresses, 1972-73 BYU Press, 1973, 104.) *Patience is tied very closely to faith in our Heavenly Father. Actually, when we are unduly impatient, we are suggesting that we know what is best—better than does God." "Without patience, we will learn less in life. We will see less. We will feel less. We will hear less. Ironically, rush and more usually mean less." Further, Elder Maxwell reminds us that impatience is like constantly pulling up the daises to see how the roots are doing, or opening the oven door every five minutes to see if the cake is done baking.(Elder Neal A. Maxwell, Patience, Ensign, Oct.1980) *George Bernard Shaw said: "Life isn't [so much ] about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." Don't worry about searching for who you are; focus your energies on creating the kind of person you want to be! You will discover that as you pursue that journey you will not only find yourself, but chances are you will be pleasantly surprised and proud of the person you find along the way." *"As beneficiaries of the divine Creation, what shall we do? We should care for the earth, be wise stewards over it, and preserve it for future generations. And we are to love and care for one another... We are to be creators in our own right--builders of an individual faith in God, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and faith in His Church. We are to build families and be sealed in holy temples. We are to build the Church and kingdom of God upon the earth. We are to prepare for our own divine destiny--glory, immortality, and eternal lives. These supernal blessings can all be ours, through our faithfulness. -President Russell M. Nelson, "Creation," General Conference, April 2000) *"If I were to ask you who is the happiest being in all the universe—the one with the most joy—you would no doubt respond, "God." Accordingly, God wants us to become perfect like Him so we can experience His quality of joy and thus best fulfill the measure of our existence. That is why His plan for us is sometimes called "the plan of happiness" (see Alma 42:8, 16). (Tad R. Callister, Our Identity and Destiny)

AGENCY:

*"NEXT TO THE BESTOWAL OF LIFE ITSELF, THE RIGHT TO DIRECT THAT LIFE IS GOD'S GREATEST GIFT TO MAN." "AGENCY IS THE IMPELLING SOURCE OF THE SOUL'S PROGRESS. IT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE LORD THAT MAN BECOME LIKE HIM. IN ORDER FOR MAN TO ACHIEVE THIS IT WAS NECESSARY FOR THE CREATOR FIRST TO MAKE HIM FREE." (Pres. David O. McKay) *"THE MORE WE EXERCISE OUR AGENCY WISELY, BASING OUR CHOICES ON RIGHTEOUS PRINCIPLES, THE MORE CHRISTLIKE WE BECOME. THUS THE FREEDOM TO CHOOSE IS A VERY SACRED GIFT. (Elder Condie, "Agency: The Gift of Choices", Ensign, Sept. 1995) "And the Messiah cometh in the fullness of time, that he may redeem the children of men from the fall. And because that they are redeemed from the FALL they have become FREE FOREVER, knowing good from evil; TO ACT FOR THEMSELVES and not be acted upon.." (2 Nephi 2:26) *Four great principles must be in force if there is to be agency: (Elder Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, 26) 1. LAWS MUST EXIST- Laws must exist which can be obeyed or disobeyed. 2. OPPOSITES MUST EXIST- One force pulling one way and another pulling another way. 3. KNOWLEDGE OF GOOD AND EVIL- We must know the difference between the opposites. 4. We have an unfettered POWER OF CHOOSE. *"In all this world there is no substitute for personal integrity. It includes honor. It includes performance. It includes keeping one's word. It includes doing what is right regardless of the circumstance." (President Gordon B. Hinckley) *"Satan is the "father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to contend with anger, one with another" (3 Ne. 11:29; emphasis added). The verb stir sounds like a recipe for disaster: Put tempers on medium heat, stir in a few choice words, and bring to a boil; continue stirring until thick; cool off; let feelings chill for several days; serve cold; lots of leftovers. A cunning part of his strategy is to dissociate anger from agency, making us believe that we are victims of an emotion that we cannot control." (Elder Lynn G. Robbins, "Agency and Anger," Ensign, May 1998) *"There is another responsibility correlated and even coexistent with free agency, which is too infrequently emphasized, and that is the effect not only of a person's actions but also of his thoughts upon others. Man radiates what he is, and that radiation affects to a greater or lesser degree every person who comes within that radiation." (President David O. McKay, Gospel Ideals, p. 302)

UNIT 2: THE PLAN OF SALVATION AND THE ETERNAL FAMILY- CREATION

-Moses 1-8 -Alma 18: 24-39 *"The great Jehovah contemplated the whole of the events connected with the earth, pertaining to the plan of salvation before it rolled into existence, or ever "the morning stars sang together" for joy; the past, the present, and the future were and are, with him, one eternal "now"; he knew of the fall of Adam, the iniquities of the antediluvians, of the depth of iniquity that would be connected with the human family, their weakness and strength, their power and glory, apostasies, their crimes, their righteousness and iniquity; he comprehended the fall of man, and his redemption; he knew the plan of salvation and pointed it out; he was acquainted with the situation of all nations and with their destiny; he ordered all things according to the council of his own will; he knows the situation of both the living and the dead, and has made ample provision for their redemption, according to their several circumstances, and the laws of the kingdom of God, whether in this world, or in the world to come." Joseph Smith and the Plan (HC 4:597.)

MARRIAGE AND THE PLAN:

*"We were born in the image of God our Father; He begat us like unto Himself. There is the nature of Deity in the composition of our spiritual organization. In our spiritual birth, our Father transmitted to us the capabilities, powers and faculties which He possessed, as much so as the child on its mother's bosom possesses, although in an undeveloped state, the faculties, powers and susceptibilities of its parent. (Tad R. Calister, Our Identity Determines our Destiny) *"But the whole subject of the marriage relation is not in my reach, nor in any other man's reach on this earth. It is without beginning of days or end of years; it is a hard matter to reach. We can tell some things with regard to it; it lays the foundations for worlds, for angels, and for the Gods; for intelligent beings to be crowned with glory, immortality, and eternal lives. (Brigham Young - Discourses of BY p. 195) *"Thus celestial marriage is the gate to exaltation. It opens the door. Those who have a continuation of the family unit in eternity have exaltation. If the family unit does not continue in eternity, there is no exaltation, or in other words, there is no eternal life. By definition, eternal life is God's life. It is the type, kind, status, and quality of existence which he enjoys as an exalted being...". (Elder Bruce R. McConkie, BYU Speeches of the Year, April 20, 1960, p. 4.6) *"Except a man and his wife enter into an everlasting covenant and be married for eternity, while in this probation, by the power and authority of the Holy Priesthood, they will cease to increase when they die; that is, they will not have any children after the resurrection. But those who are married by the power and authority of the priesthood in this life, and continue without committing the sin against the Holy Ghost, will continue to increase and have children in the celestial glory."(Prophet Joseph Smith, HC, Vol. 5, p.391) *D&C 131: "In order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into this order of the priesthood [meaning the new and everlasting covenant of marriage]... (if not, he cannot have "increase.") *"By divine design, men and women are intended to progress together toward perfection and a fullness of glory," said Elder David A. Bednar. When we marry, we become partners in the progress of one another." *"The nature of male and female spirits is such that they complete each other. Men and women are intended to progress together toward exaltation" (Church Handbook 2:1.3.1.)

THEOLOGY ON THE FAMILY & PILLARS OF ETERNITY:

*"What is the plan of salvation? It is the system ordained by the Father to enable his spirit children to advance and progress and become like him (Moses 4:1-4; Abr. 3:22-28). It consists of three great and eternal verities-the Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement -without any one of which there could be no salvation. Bruce R. McConkie, Sermons and Writings of Bruce R. McConkie , p.73 *A great council in heaven was once convened, in which it seems that all of us participated. There our Heavenly Father announced His plan. Scriptures refer to this plan of God by many names. Perhaps out of deference to the sacred name of Deity, or to depict its broad scope, it is also called the plan of happiness, the plan of salvation, the plan of redemption, the plan of restoration, the plan of mercy, the plan of deliverance, and the everlasting gospel. Prophets have used these terms interchangeably. Regardless of designation, the enabling essence of the plan is the atonement of Jesus Christ. As it is central to the plan, we should try to comprehend the meaning of the Atonement. Before we can comprehend it, though, we must understand the fall of Adam. And before we can fully appreciate the Fall, we must first comprehend the Creation. These three events-the Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement-are three preeminent pillars of God's plan, and they are doctrinally interrelated. (President Russell M. Nelson, Perfection Pending, and Other Favorite Discourses , p.225 - 226 *What is the plan of salvation? It is the system ordained by the Father to enable his spirit children to advance and progress and become like him (Moses 4:1-4; Abr. 3:22-28). It consists of three great and eternal verities-the Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement -without any one of which there could be no salvation. (Bruce R. McConkie, Sermons and Writings of Bruce R. McConkie , p.73 *"The family concept is one of the major and most important of the whole theological doctrine. In fact, our very concept of heaven is the projection of the home into eternity. [EXALTATION], then, is essentially a family affair; and full participation in the plan of salvation can be had only in family units" (Elder Hugh B. Brown) *1. The Creation of the earth provided a place where families could live. 2. The Fall provided a way for the family to grow in mortality. 3. The Atonement allows for the family to be sealed together eternally. It allows for families to have eternal growth and perfection. "When we speak of qualifying for the blessings of eternal life, we mean qualifying for the blessings of eternal families... Without the family, there is no plan; there is no reason for mortal life." (Sister Julie Beck) CREATION: Made in God's image with potential to become like Him: "To live LIKE the Father, not just live WITH Him...Eternal life means to BECOME LIKE THE FATHER and to LIVE IN FAMILIES in happiness and joy forever." (Pres Eyring) FALL: Give us a mortal experience for refinement of body and spirit: Overcome physical and spiritual death to become like God. (Laboratory for Godhood: Join with God in procreation---bringing children to the world, Have dominion over other--raising children in light and truth, development of Christ-like attributes--putting all the gospel principles into practice with one another in marriage and family.) ATONEMENT: Event that makes it possible for us to become AT-ONE with God and AT-ONE with each other-- to do His holy work as couples/family.

WHAT IS CONSIDERED DOCTRINE?

**Doctrine="something that is taught" or a teaching, instruction TYPES OF DOCTRINE: *CORE DOCTRINE (unchanging truths of salvation), SUPPORTIVE DOCTRINE (elaborates, describes, expands on core doctrine), POLICIES/PROGRAMS/PROCEDURES. (subject to change), ESOTERIC DOCTRINE (unknown or only partially revealed or yet to be fully explained) Criteria for Core Doctrine: 1. Eternal - not changing - not time-bound "Procedures, programs, policies, and patterns of organization are helpful for our spiritual progress here on earth, but let's not forget that they are subject to change. In contrast, the core of the gospel—the doctrine and the principles—will never change." (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, October 2008) 2. United Voice of the First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve There is an important principle that governs the doctrine of the Church. The doctrine is taught by all 15 members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve. It is not hidden in an obscure paragraph of one talk. True principles are taught frequently and by many. ( Elder Neil L. Anderson, GC, October 2012) 3. A doctrine is a truth related to our salvation "A gospel doctrine is a truth - a truth of salvation revealed by a loving Heavenly Father. Gospel doctrines are eternal, do not change, and pertain to the eternal progression and exaltation of Heavenly Father's sons and daughters. Doctrines such as the nature of the Godhead, the plan of happiness, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ are foundational, fundamental, and comprehensive. The core doctrines of the gospel of Jesus Christ are relatively few in number." (Elder David A. Bednar, Increase in Learning, p. 151.)

NATURE AND CHARACTER OF GOD:

*Character- all knowing, all powerful, changes not--same from everlasting to everlasting, creator, just, merciful, gracious, slow to anger, full of truth, abundant in goodness, no respecter of persons, charitable- He is love. "We are the offspring of God. He is our Father, and we have a mother in the other life as well" (President Lorenzo Snow, Teachings of Lorenzo Snow, 16; see also Conference Report, October 1898, 56). "God is a married being, has a wife....We are the offspring of Him and His wife" (President George Q. Cannon, as cited in "A Mother There: A Survey of Historical Teachings about Mother in Heaven, 20). ➢Both were mortal - both are now glorified, perfected beings ➢Both are our eternal parents ➢Both possess all power, knowledge and goodness ➢Both possess all true joy and happiness (Alma 41:11) ➢Both exist for the express purpose of helping us become as they are •In other words... ➢Both share in the same work - our growth, perfection and eternal happiness (Moses 1:39) "All men and women are in the similitude of the universal father and mother, and are literally the sons and daughters of Deity" (The First Presidency: Joseph F. Smith, John R Winder, Anthon H. Lund, The Origin of Man: Messages of the First Presidency, 4:203). Erastus Snow taught that "we should understand that Deity consists of man and woman? ....If I believe anything that God has ever said about himself...I must believe that deity consists of man and woman. There can be no God except he is composed of the man and woman united, and there is not in all the eternities that exist, or ever will be a God in any other way" (Erastus Snow, Journal of Discourses, 19:269-270). See Genesis 1:1, 26-27 "The glorious vision of life hereafter .... is given radiant warmth by the thought that ... [we have] a mother who possesses the attributes of Godhood" (Elder John A. Widtsoe, 34 "Sisters, I testify that when you stand in front of your heavenly parents in those royal courts on high and you look into Her eyes and behold Her countenance, any question you ever had about the role of women in the kingdom will evaporate into the rich celestial air, because at that moment you will see standing directly in front of you, your divine nature and destiny" (Elder Glenn L. Pace, "The Divine Nature and Destiny of Women," Devotional Address, Brigham Young University, 9 March 2010). "Logic and reason would certainly suggest that if we have a Father in Heaven, we have a Mother in Heaven. That doctrine rests well with me. "However, in light of the instruction we have received from the Lord Himself, I regard it as inappropriate for anyone in the Church to pray to our Mother in Heaven." (President Gordon B. Hinckley, "Daughters of God," General Conference, October 1991).

NEW & EVERLASTING COVENANT:

*The gospel is the everlasting covenant because it is ordained by Him who is Everlasting.. *Each time this everlasting covenant is revealed it is new to those of that dispensation. *All covenants between God and man are part of the new and everlasting covenant. *Celestial marriage is "a new and an everlasting covenant" or the new and everlasting covenant of marriage. "The new and everlasting covenant is the sum total of all gospel covenants and obligations" (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation) New and Everlasting Covenant of Marriage= Patriarchal order= priesthood government by family organization The patriarchal order is, in the words of Elder James E. Talmage, a condition where "woman shares with man the blessings of the Priesthood," where husband and wife minister, "seeing and understanding alike, and cooperating to the full in the government of their family kingdom" (Young Woman's Journal 25 [Oct. 1914]:602-603). A man cannot hold this priesthood without a wife, and a woman cannot share the blessings of this priesthood without a husband, sealed in the temple. (Encyclopedia of Mormonism, p. 1067) "When we as Latter-day Saints talk about marriage, we are talking about a holy, celestial order. We are talking about a system out of which can grow the greatest love, joy, peace, happiness, and serenity known to humankind. We are talking about creating a family unit that has the potential of being everlasting and eternal, a family unit where a man and a wife can go on in that relationship to all eternity, and where mother and daughter and father and son are bound by eternal ties that will never be severed...It is a unit out of which exaltation and eternal life grow; and when we talk about eternal life, we are talking about the kind of life that God our Heavenly Father lives."(Elder Bruce R. McConkie, Celestial Marriage, New Era, June 1978) *Frequently we perform marriages in the temple. These marriages are properly called celestial marriages, temple sealings, or eternal marriages. The thing that we really do is to organize the most basic unit in the Church-the family. The family is the most important relationship in this life. In reality, the bride and groom are called to assignments in the family from which they are never released, except by transgression. This is the one eternal unit which can exist in the presence of God. (A Theodore Tuttle) Frequently we perform marriages in the temple. These marriages are properly called celestial marriages, temple sealings, or eternal marriages. The thing that we really do is to organize the most basic unit in the Church-the family. The family is the most important relationship in this life. In reality, the bride and groom are called to assignments in the family from which they are never released, except by transgression. This is the one eternal unit which can exist in the presence of God. (A Theodore Tuttle) Many people reading this section of the Doctrine and Covenants do not grasp its full import. Accordingly, I thought both of you might benefit from a brief comment or two about its meaning. The gospel, which is called "the new and everlasting covenant," includes many specific covenants, one being called "the new and everlasting covenant of marriage." This title, or name, is simply another way of saying "patriarchal order." Thus, that portion of section 131 could read: "And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into the patriarchal order of the priesthood."...Furthermore, we learn that "the highest order of the Melchizedek Priesthood is patriarchal authority" and that "the patriarchal order of the priesthood is the right of worthy priesthood-holding fathers to preside over their descendants through all ages; it includes the ordinances and blessings of the fulness of the priesthood shared by husbands and wives who are sealed in the temple" (in Daniel H. Ludlow, ed., Encyclopedia of Mormonism, 5 vols. [1992], 3:1067, 1135)....The Lord has told us that the patriarchal order will be the order of things in the highest degree of the celestial kingdom; thus, without participation in the sealing ordinance, you simply cannot qualify for admission to that high and holy place. Of course, some individuals, through no fault of their own, may not have the opportunity to marry in this life; they will yet have that opportunity (see Harold B. Lee, The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde G. Williams [1996], 256-57). (Cree-L Kofford, "Marriage in the Lord's Way, Parts One and Two," Ensign, June/July 1998) "The whole subject of the marriage relation is not in my reach, nor in any other man's reach on this earth. It is without beginning of days or end of years: it is a hard matter to reach. "We can tell some things with regard to it: it lays the foundation for worlds, for angels, and for the Gods; for intelligent beings to be crowned with glory, immortality and eternal lives. In fact, it is the thread which runs from the beginning to the end of the holy Gospel of Salvation—of the Gospel of the Son of God; it is from eternity to eternity" (Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, 2:90). WHAT HAPPENS WITH DIVORCE? Members who have concerns about the eternal nature of such relationships can find peace in the knowledge that Heavenly Father is loving and just. He will ensure that eternal family relationships will be fair and right for all who keep their covenants. (Handbook 1:3.6.2, 2010) This is the church of Jesus Christ, not the church of marrieds or singles or any other group or individual. The gospel we preach is the gospel of Jesus Christ, which encompasses all the saving ordinances and covenants necessary to save and exalt every individual who is willing to accept Christ and keep the commandments that he and our Father in Heaven have given....No blessing, including that of eternal marriage and an eternal family, will be denied to any worthy individual. While it may take somewhat longer--perhaps even beyond this mortal life for some to achieve this blessing, it will not be denied. (Howard W. Hunter, Ensign, June 1989)

UNIT 8: TRUE LOVE

*WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INFATUATION AND LOVE? (refer to handout) ●"'Falling in love' is always from within, rather than from without. That is, physical attractiveness must be reinforced with mental and spiritual harmony if true love is to be born and have long life—from the Latter-Day Saint point of view, to last throughout the eternities."(Elder John A. Widtsoe, Evidences and Reconciliations, 297-302) ●"People simply desire to be connected with others, especially in close relationships. They are feeling the longing to belong. ...Both our theology and the feelings of our hearts make us want to belong, now and eternally, to the father of our Spirits, to his Son, and to those we love on earth Elder Bruce and Marie Hafen, The Belonging Heart, pp. 9-1 ●"Amae describes the innate need and desire within each person to depend on and feel connected to other people, especially in relationships of love and intimacy. In a sense, Amae is the desire to receive love. Through the fulfillment of our amae we find not only security but also freedom and meaning" Elder Bruce and Marie Hafen, The Belonging Heart, pp. 21

To SEAL=

*something that confirms, ratifies, or makes secure: guarantee, assurance *a device or substance that is used to join two things together as to prevent them from coming apart or to prevent anything from passing between them *to fasten with or as if with a seal to prevent tampering *to mark with a stamp or seal usually as an evidence of standard exactness SEALING POWER==POWER TO CONNECT/BIND YOU TO GOD AND TO EACH OTHER-- TO BECOME ONE "Therefore, I would that ye should be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in good works, that Christ, the Lord God Omnipotent, may seal you his, that you may be brought to heaven, that ye may may have everlasting salvation and eternal life, through the wisdom, and power, and justice, and mercy of him who created all things, in heaven and in earth, who is God above all. Amen." (Mosiah 5:15) "What does it mean to seal you his? This is one of those sacred doctrines about which we can catch only slight glimpses. It does seem to be part of the fulfillment of our relationship with Him, a personal process that is enhanced and authorized by the sealing ordinances of the temple and linked to the blessings of the Atonement. The ordinances and principles of the priesthoods lead the Savior's followers through a complete upward sequence that fulfills the Atonement's promise of our at-one-ment with the Lord." (Elder Bruce C. Hafen, The Contrite Sprit, p 78-81) "The answer to "Who am I?" can never be complete unless it answers "Whose am I?" You are the son or daughter of a king. The Father himself. Through the ordinances you are begotten spiritually through his Son . You become heir to his throne.. You take his name. To receive him fully is to receive the fullness of the atonement... a relationship has been forged between you and Jesus Christ. The temple is many things: a house of faith, a house of study, of learning, of order and glory. But surrounding all of those it is a house of LOVE. None of us receives enough love in this world... The Father and the Son call us to come in the spirit of sacrifice and be surrounded by that holy environment which embraces us in LOVE." (Truman Madsen, The Temple and the Atonement, Maxwell Institute Publications, 1994) 3 TYPES OF MARRIAGE AS EXPLAINED in D&C 132: -Marriage #1 CIVIL MARRIAGE: D&C 132:15-16. Out of force when they are dead.,Act as ministering angels.—Marriage #2 TEMPLE MARRIAGE but not true to covenants (D&C 132:18) Not sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise., Out of force when they are dead., Act as ministering angels. Marriage #3 TEMPLE MARRIAGE- faithful to marriage covenants HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE: SEAL= TO RATIFY, TO JUSTIFY, OR TO APPROVE. "The Holy Spirit of Promise is the ratifying power of the Holy Ghost. When sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise, an ordinance, vow, or covenant is binding on earth and in heaven. (See D&C 132:7.) Receiving this 'stamp of approval' from the Holy Ghost is the result of faithfulness, integrity, and steadfastness in honoring gospel covenants in [the] process of time' (Moses 7:21).

SAVING ORDINANCES & COVENANTS:

1-Baptism (membership in God's church) 2-Confirmation (Receive the Holy Ghost) 3-Priesthood (Help others receive saving ordinances) 4-Temple- Initiatory (washed, anointed, clothed) 5-Temple- Endowment (knowledge, power, protection) 6-Temple- Sealing (blessings of exaltation)

CONDITIONS FOR ETERNAL MARRIAGE:

1. Covenant must be made in temple. 2. Ceremony must be performed by one with authority. 3. Covenant must be "entered into" or kept. 4. Marriage ordinance must be sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise. 5. We must receive the Savior—partake of the atonement. BLESSINGS OF ETERNAL MARRIAGE: 1. We will come forth in the first resurrection and inherit the celestial kingdom. 2. Our marriage will be valid, of full force, throughout all eternity. (Sealed by Holy Spirit of Promise) 3. We will be exalted and become like God. (Inherit thrones, kingdoms, powers, dominions...) 4. We will have continuation of the seeds forever and ever (eternal increase). "Thus celestial marriage is the crowning ordinance of the gospel, the crowning ordinance of the house of the Lord. Thus the family unit is the most important organization in time or in eternity. "And thus we should have more interest in and concern for our families than for anything else in life" (Elder Bruce R. McConkie, "Salvation is a Family Affair," Improvement Era, June 1970, 102).

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF REGARDING A POTENTIAL SPOUSE:

1. Do I enjoy him/her? 2. Am I happy in his/her presence? 3. Do I like who I am when I am with him/her? 4. Are we good for each other? 5. Am I comfortable being me and talking about my feelings? 6. Do I think my best thoughts? Am I inspired to be a better person? 7. Am I attracted to him/her? Am I really interested & excited to be together? 8. Do I desire to serve and dedicate my time/energy... to him/her? 9. Am I done looking? 10. Am I LOOKING FOR POTENTIAL NOT PERFECTION? "There is more to a foundation of eternal marriage than a pretty face or an attractive figure. There is more to consider than popularity or charisma. As you seek an eternal companion, look for someone who is developing the essential attributes that bring happiness: a deep love of the Lord and of His commandments, a determination to live them, one that is kindly understanding, forgiving of others, and willing to give of self, with the desire to have a family crowned with beautiful children and a commitment to teach them the principles of truth in the home. (Richard G. Scott, GC, April, 1999) "There are lots of limitations in all of us that we hope our sweethearts will overlook. "I suppose no one is as handsome or as beautiful as he or she wishes, or as brilliant in school or as witty in speech or as wealthy as we would like, but in a world of varied talents and fortunes that we can't always command, I think that makes even more attractive the qualities we can command--such qualities as thoughtfulness, patience, a kind word, and true delight in the accomplishment of another. "These cost us nothing, and they can mean everything to the one who receives them" (Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, "How Do I Love Thee," BYU Speeches, 3). I believe that those of you who are walking around with a checklist of desirable fully perfected attributes in a prospective companion may come off empty-handed. Most of those attributes will be only in embryo when you are courting and will take most of a lifetime to perfect.(Elder Marlin K. Jensen, GC, October, 1994) "I suggest that you not ignore many possible candidates who are still developing these attributes, seeking the one who is perfected in them. You will likely not find that perfect person, and if you did, there would certainly be no interest in you. These attributes are best polished together as husband and wife." (Richard G. Scott, GC, April, 1999) "Another error you might easily make in dating is expecting to find perfection in the person you are with. "The truth is, the only perfect people you might know are those you don't know very well. "Everyone has imperfections. "Now, I'm not suggesting you lower your standards and marry someone with whom you can't be happy. "But one of the things I've realized as I've matured in life is that if someone is willing to accept me—imperfect as I am—then I should be willing to be patient with others' imperfections as well. "Since you won't find perfection in your partner, and your partner won't find it in you, your only chance at perfection is in creating perfection together" (President Dieter F. Utchdorf, "The Reflection in the Water," CES Fireside for Young Adults, 1 November 2009, Brigham Young University). Don't date someone you already know you would not ever want to marry. If you should fall in love with someone you shouldn't marry, you can't expect the Lord to guide you away from that person after you are already emotionally committed. (Bruce C. Hafen, The Gospel and Romantic Love, BYU September 28th, 1982) "Do you want capability, safety, and security in dating and romance, in married life and eternity? Be a true disciple of Jesus. Be a genuine, committed, word-and deed Latter-day Saint. Believe that your faith has everything to do with your romance, because it does. You separate dating from discipleship at your peril. Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, is the only lamp by which you can successfully see the path of love and happiness. How should I love thee? As He does, for that way 'never faileth.'" (Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, packet, p. 133.par 31) "For some, [marriage and family] would appear impossible to obtain. But please have faith, and join that faith with works. The Lord is aware of you as individuals and of your particular circumstances. He will bless you. He will assist you in bringing to pass that which is right and which you righteously desire. Please have faith." (Earl C. Tingey, "The Simple Truths from Heaven—the Lord's Pattern," CES Fireside for Young Adults, Jan. 13, 2008).

BLESSINGS OF ABRAHAM:

1. Promised Land. Land for Abraham and the righteous, represents an inheritance in the celestial kingdom. 2. Posterity. Abraham and all righteous are promised a posterity as numerous as the sands of the sea... 3. Priesthood & Covenants. Abraham and his seed would have access to the blessings of the gospel including Melchizedek priesthood and eternal marriage which make exaltation possible. "Celestial Marriage is the covenant of Exaltation." (Pres. Nelson)

5 TYPES OF WITNESSES OF OUR DIVINE NATURE AND POTENTIAL: (ELDER CALLISTER)

1. SCRIPTURE- "Not only am I a god, but all of you are potential God's." (Savior speaking- John 10) 2. EARLY CHRISTIAN WRITERS- "Knowing God, he will be made like God... And that man becomes God, since God so wills." (Clement of Alexandria) 3. AUTHORS- "There are no ordinary people, only potential gods and goddesses in our midst." (C.S. Lewis) 4. LOGIC- "Every man is a potential god in embryo, in fulfillment of that eternal law that LIKE BEGETS LIKE." 5. HISTORY- "Perfection is a quest on both sides of the veil. ...A glimpse beyond the veil tells us that the records of history do not end at death but continue to mark man's unlimited achievements." (Elder Tad R. Callister) "Man is the child of God, formed in the divine image and endowed with divine attributes, and even as the infant son of an earthly father and mother is capable in due time of becoming a man, so that undeveloped offspring of celestial parentage is capable, by experience through ages and aeons, of evolving into a God." (First Presidency - Heber J. Grant, Anthony W. Ivins, Charles W. Nibley) In James R. Clark, comp., Messages of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 6 vols. (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1965-75), 5, 244.) "It is a serious thing to live in a society of possible gods and goddesses, to remember that the dullest and most uninteresting person you talk to may one day be a creature which... you would be strongly tempted to worship... There are no ordinary people." (CS Lewis) Oh, it is wonderful to know that our Heavenly Father loves us—even with all our flaws! His love is such that even should we give up on ourselves, He never will. We see ourselves in terms of yesterday and today. Our Heavenly Father sees us in terms of forever. Although we might settle for less, Heavenly Father won't, for He sees us as the glorious beings we are capable of becoming. (Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, "The Great Commandment," Ensign, October, 2007. "Thus celestial marriage is the gate to exaltation. It opens the door. Those who have a continuation of the family unit in eternity have exaltation. If the family unit does not continue in eternity, there is no exaltation, or in other words, there is no eternal life. By definition, eternal life is God's life. It is the type, kind, status, and quality of existence which he enjoys as an exalted being..."(Elder Bruce R. McConkie, BYU Speeches of the Year, April 20, 1960, p. 4.6) "Except a man and his wife enter into an everlasting covenant and be married for eternity, while in this probation, by the power and authority of the Holy Priesthood, they will cease to increase when they die; that is, they will not have any children after the resurrection. But those who are married by the power and authority of the priesthood in this life, and continue without committing the sin against the Holy Ghost, will continue to increase and have children in the celestial glory." (Prophet Joseph Smith, HC, Vol. 5, p.391) "By divine design, men and women are intended to progress together toward perfection and a fullness of glory," said Elder David A. Bednar. When we marry, we become partners in the progress of one another." "The nature of male and female spirits is such that they complete each other. Men and women are intended to progress together toward exaltation" (Church Handbook 2:1.3.1.) " THE HIGHTEST FORM OR WORSHIP IS TO EMULATE CHARACTER, WORSHIP OF THE FATHER IS ALSO, INDIRECTLY, WORSHIP OF THE MOTHER, AS EACH HAS EQUALLY PERFECT MORAL CHARACTER. (Elder Bruce R. McConkie) "Our theology begins with heavenly parents. Our highest aspiration is to be like them... (President Dallin H. Oaks) "Sometimes we think the whole job is up to us, forgetful that there are loved ones beyond our sight who are thinking about us and our children. We forget that we have a Heavenly Father and a Heavenly Mother who are even more concerned, probably, than our earthly father and mother, and that-- influences from beyond-- are constantly working to try to help us when we do all we can." (President Harold B. Lee)

WHY DO WE NEED LIVING PROPHETS?

1. TEACHINGS OF CHRIST: They are witnesses of Jesus Christ and help us build faith in Him. They teach us the doctrine and truth of His plan. 2. CONTINUING REVELATION: Prophets receive the word of God for us today as they have done in the past. Safety and strength come in knowing and applying the teachings. "THEY HAVE THE RIGHT, POWER, AND AUTHORITY TO DECLARE THE MIND AND WILL OF GOD TO HIS PEOPLE." 3. PRIESTHOOD KEYS: The Living Prophet possesses all the keys of the priesthood necessary for us to return back to our Father. KEYS TO LEAD THE CHURCH "By the authority vested in him, all ordinances of the gospel are performed, all teaching of the truths of salvation is authorized, and through the keys which he holds, salvation itself is made available to men of his day." (Elder McConkie) The Prophet Joseph Smith said, "The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it." (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 121) "Father, I thank thee that thou hast given the Holy Ghost unto these whom I have chosen; and it is because of their belief in me that I have chosen them out of the world. Father, I pray thee that thou wilt give the Holy Ghost unto all them that shall believe in their words. Father, thou hast given them the Holy Ghost because they believe in me; and thou seest that they believe in me because thou hearest them, and they pray unto me; and they pray unto me because I am with them. And now Father, I pray unto thee for them, and also for all those who shall believe on their words, that they may believe in me, that I may be in them as thou, Father, art in me, that we may be one...(3 Nephi 19: 20-23, 28-29) We require a living tree—a living fountain—living intelligence, proceeding from the living priesthood in heaven, through the living priesthood on earth.. It always required new revelations, adapted to the peculiar circumstances in which the churches or individuals were placed. "God's revelation to Adam did not instruct Noah how to build the Ark. Noah needed his own revelation. Therefore the most important prophet so far as you and I are concerned is the one living in our day and age to whom the Lord is currently revealing His will for us." (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: John Taylor [2001], 158) "I wonder if your people appreciate the import of your message. Do you? He said, 'If what you have told me is true, it is the greatest message that has come to this earth since the angels announced the birth of Christ." (President Hugh B. Brown, interview with former justice of the Supreme Court of England in "Profile of a Prophet," Ensign, June 2006)

Blessings from following Living Prophets:

3 Ne 12:1-2 - Visited with Holy Ghost and receive remission of sins 3 Nephi 19:23,28 - Be "at one" with Christ, Be purified in him D&C 21: 4-6 - Gates of hell shall not prevail against you, the Lord will disperse the powers of darkness from before you and cause the heavens to shake for your good. D&C 84:36-38 -All that the Father has shall be given unto you— Ephesians 4: 11-14 - Come to unity of faith, knowledge of the Son of God, Be no more children tossed to and fro, that we may grow up into Him in all things Seek Truth Daily: 1- Hear and heed the words of Living Prophets. 2- Search the holy scriptures. (Book of Mormon 1st) 3- Seek confirmation from Holy Ghost. "I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things." (Moroni 10:4)

ATONEMENT & GRACE:

Atonement="That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one;...(John 17:21-23) grace= "Grace is power that flows from the atonement. It is what the Savior uses to help us and thus to continue to manifest His love for us. It is this power that ultimately enables us to do what we came to earth to do... The Savior empowers us through his grace."His power—power that enables us to do things we simply could not do on our own. (Sheri Dew, Amazed by Grace, p. 11) In the Bible Dictionary, Grace is described as: divine means of help or strength given through the bounteous mercy and love of Jesus Christ... It is likewise through the grace of the Lord that individuals through faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ and repentance of their sins, receive strength and assistance to do good works that they otherwise would not be able to maintain if left to their own means. This grace is an enabling power that allows men and women to lay hold on eternal life and exaltation after they have expended their own best efforts." "It is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do" (2 Nephi 25:23)

JUSTIFICATION AND SANCTIFICATION:

Because of "the infinite virtue of His great atoning sacrifice," Jesus Christ can satisfy or "answer the ends of the law" on our behalf. Pardon comes by the grace of Him who has satisfied the demands of justice by His own suffering, "the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God" (1 Pet. 3:18). He removes our condemnation without removing the law. We are pardoned and placed in a condition of righteousness with Him. We become, like Him, without sin. We are sustained and protected by the law, by justice. We are, in a word, justified. To be sanctified through the blood of Christ is to become clean, pure, and holy. If justification removes the punishment for past sin, then sanctification removes the stain or effects of sin. The Prophet Joseph Smith testified: "And this is the gospel, the glad tidings, which the voice out of the heavens bore record unto us — That he came into the world, even Jesus, to be crucified for the world, and to bear [justify] the sins of the world, and to sanctify the world, and to cleanse it from all unrighteousness." (D&C 76:40-41). (D. Todd Christofferson, "Justification and Sanctification, Ensign, June 2001) "When a person has gone through the process that results in what the scriptures call a broken heart and a contrite spirit, the Savior does more than cleanse that person from sin. He also gives him or her new strength. That strengthening is essential for us to realize the purpose of the cleansing, which is to return to our Heavenly Father. To be admitted to his presence, we must be more than clean. We must also be changed from a morally weak person who has sinned into a strong person with the spiritual stature to dwell in the presence of God." (Elder Dallin H. Oaks, 1990, Sin & Suffering, p.5) EMULATE THE ATONEMENT: "The Lord provides ways to pay our debts to Him. In one sense, we ourselves may participate in an atonement. When we are willing to restore to others that which we have not taken, or to heal wounds that we did not inflict, or to pay a debt that we did not incur, we are emulating His part in the atonement". (Elder Boyd K. Packer, "The Brilliant Morning of Forgiveness," Ensign, Nov. 1995, 18-21). "I would exhort you that ye deny not the power of God; for He worth by power... I exhort you.. that ye deny not the gifts of God.... Love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by His grace ye may be perfect in Christ."(Moroni 10:7,8,32)

When is it time to "break-up"?

By Gawain Wells, "Breaking Up Without Going to Pieces" Ensign, June 1982) 1. More interested in having a relationship than having genuine interest in that person. 2. Feel obligated to stay in the relationship. 3. Inability to communicate (perhaps physically affectionate but can't talk) 4. Feel emotionally starved or drained (perhaps lack of appropriate affection or feeling of being "used" in an unhealthy way) 5. Feeling that you have to "save the other." 6. Avoid causing problems in a family or social network 7. When you don't feel good about the timing HOW TO BREAK-UP? 1. Be honest—kindly. Don't tell the other "slowly" 2. Separate yourselves. Don't try to still spend time together. 3. Work through the grief process. Don't be defensive, critical or try to "get even" 4. Appreciate what you have learned and ways you have grown personally. Don't have a "pity party"—it's a cruel way of hurting yourself 5. Turn to the Lord for peace and understanding. Think-in-ink—work through feelings. "'Falling in love' is always from within, rather than from without. That is, physical attractiveness must be reinforced with mental and spiritual harmony if true love is to be born and have long life—from the Latter-Day Saint point of view, to last throughout the eternities."(Elder John A. Widtsoe, Evidences and Reconciliations, 297-302) "People simply desire to be connected with others, especially in close relationships. They are feeling the longing to belong. ...Both our theology and the feelings of our hearts make us want to belong, now and eternally, to the father of our Spirits, to his Son, and to those we love on earth Elder Bruce and Marie Hafen, The Belonging Heart, pp. 9-11 "Amae describes the innate need and desire within each person to depend on and feel connected to other people, especially in relationships of love and intimacy. In a sense, Amae is the desire to receive love. Through the fulfillment of our amae we find not only security but also freedom and meaning" ( Elder Bruce and Marie Hafen, The Belonging Heart, pp. 21)

ATONEMENT & INADEQUACIES: ATONEMENT & QUEST FOR PERFECTION:

Elder Bruce C. Hafen states; "As we move along that trail, we will find that he is not only aware of our limitations, but that he will also in due course compensate for them, "after all we can do." "He received not of the fulness at the first, but received grace for grace... until He received a fulness." (D&C 93:12-13) "Then we will exhibit divine character not just because we think we should, but because that is the way we are." (Elder Hafen) "In the same manner that the very small moon can block the magnificent sun, extinguishing its light and warmth, a spiritual eclipse can occur when we allow minor and troublesome obstructions—those we face in our daily lives—to get so close that they block out the magnitude, brightness, and warmth of the light of Jesus Christ and His gospel."(Elder Gary E. Stevenson, "Spiritual Eclipse," Ensign, November 2017.) "Life in the Church soon teaches us that the Lord does not ask us about our ability, but only about our availability. And then, if we demonstrate our dependability, the Lord will increase our capability." (Elder Neal A. Maxwell, ACR 8/74:12) For precept must be upon precept; line upon line, here a little, and there a little. "He gives a little to His humble followers today, and if they improve upon it, tomorrow He will give them a little more, and the next day a little more. He does not add to that which they do not improve upon, but they are required to continually improve upon the knowledge they already possess, and thus obtain a store of wisdom." Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young (1997), 85-91 "I know of nothing Satan uses quite so cunningly or cleverly in his work on a young man or woman... I speak of doubt—especially self-doubt—of discouragement, and of despair.Troubles we all have, but the 'germ' of discouragement... is not in the trouble, it is in us... In fact it can become almost a habit, a way of living and thinking, and there the greatest damage is done."(Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, For Times of Trouble, BYU Speeches, March 1980) "If we allowed ourselves to feel as much of Christ's love as we would want others to feel, we could set ourselves free from the chains of self-contempt that enslave us and smother our happiness and potential." (Brent Top, Finding Inner Peace, pg. 71) "But we also need to appreciate that the Lord desires, through His Atonement and by the power of the Holy Ghost, to live in us—not only to direct us but also to empower us." (Sister Linda K. Burton, "Is Faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ Written in Our Hearts?" Ensign, November 2012) "The enabling and strengthening aspect of the Atonement helps us to see and to do and to become good in ways that we could never recognize or accomplish with our limited mortal capacity." (Elder Bednar) While many Christian theologians have expressed the magnitude of the Savior's Atonement by emphasizing human depravity, Latter-day Saints understand the magnitude of the Atonement of Christ in terms of the vast human potential it makes possible. Christ's Atonement not only provides forgiveness from sin and victory over death, it also redeems imperfect relationships, heals the spiritual wounds that stifle growth, and strengthens and enables individuals to develop the attributes of Christ. (LDS.org Essay on Becoming Like God) Moroni 10:7,8,32 "I would exhort you that ye deny not the power of God; for He worketh by power... I exhort you..that ye deny not the gifts of God.. Love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is His grace sufficient for you, that by His grace ye may be perfect in Christ."

JESUS CHRIST AND GRACE

Faith in the reality of God is increased more by "experiencing God" than "explaining God." (Martin Buber, Eclipse of God: Studies in the Relation Between Religion and Philosophy, (Princeton University Press Princeton & Oxford 2016), 12 The Hebrew Bible's term for faith, "emunah" which is more properly translated as "trust." "Emunah" is not blind belief that something is true. Instead, faith is more like trusting someone-- that trust is relational." Trust in God is not proof of God's existence but a relationship actively cultivated--even when He is blind to our eyes. (Martin Buber, The Eclipse of God) "Just as ships need anchors to keep them from drifting away on the open seas, people need spiritual anchors in their lives if they are to remain steadfast and not drift into the sea of temptation and sin. Faith in God and in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, is the main anchor we must have in our lives to hold us fast during times of social turbulence and wickedness that seem to be everywhere today...

*DIVINE GIFTS:

GOD'S GIFT: Created in His image with potential to become like Him. ADAM & EVE'S GIFT: Mortal experience CHRIST'S GIFT: Atonement- power to progress and become>> Immortality and Eternal Life OUR GIFT: "As you seek the blessing of conversion, you can offer the Lord the gift of your broken, or repentant, heart and your contrite, obedient spirit. In reality, it is the gift of yourself—what you are and what you becoming." (Elder Christofferson)

WHAT ABOUT PLURAL MARRIAGE?

JACOB 2:27-30, D&C 132 Justification, Reasons, Results: 1. An integral part of the Lord's plan to "restore all things" in this dispensation: prophets, priesthood, temples for sealing power (D&C 132:40,45, 46) Sealings made available to those worthy 2. To increase the number of children born in the gospel covenant in order to "raise up seed unto the Lord" like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses... (Jacob 2:27-30, D&C 132: 36-37) Common occurrence at the beginning of dispensations. Created a broad base of children under the covenant—"How many of you know of ancestors who were polygamists?" 3. To test, unite and strengthen God's people. (D&C 132:51) Abrahamic testing Results of Plural marriage: Plural marriage did result in the birth of large numbers of children within faithful Latter-day Saint homes. It also shaped 19th-century Mormon society in many ways: Marriage became available to virtually all who desired it. Per-capita inequality of wealth was diminished as economically disadvantaged women married into more financially stable households. Ethnic intermarriages were increased, which helped create and strengthen a sense of cohesion and group identification among Latter-day Saints. Church members came to see themselves as unique—covenant bound to carry out the commands of God despite outside opposition. ABRAHAMIC TESTING: "The practice of this principle would be the hardest trial the Saints would ever have to test their faith." (Joseph Smith) "It was the first time in my life that I had desired the grave... I had to pray unceasingly." (Brigham Young) "I never felt more sorrowful... I wept days.. I had a good wife. I was satisfied." (Heber C. Kimball) Emma: After an argument with Joseph one evening (overheard by housekeeper Maria Jane Woodward) Emma insightfully explained herself to Maria the next morning..."Emma came and said to me... 'The principle of plural marriage is right, but I am like other women, I am naturally jealous hearted and can talk back to Joseph as long as any wife can talk back to her husband, but what I want to say to you is this. You heard me finding fault with the principle. I want to say that that principle is right, it is from our Father in Heaven,' and then she again spoke of her jealousy. Then she continued, 'What I said I have got to repent of. The principle is right but I am jealous hearted. Now never tell anybody that you heard me find fault with Joseph of that principle. The principle is right and if I or you or anyone else find fault with that principle we have got to humble ourselves and repent of it" (Maria Jane Woodward, 1902, as quoted in Brian C. Hales, Joseph Smith's Polygamy, Volume 2, p. 129). "...I desire with all my heart to honor and respect my husband as my head, to ever live in his confidence and by acting in unison with him retain the place which God has given me by his side. I desire to see that I may rejoice with them in the blessings which God has in store for all who are willing to be obedient in His requirements. Finally, I desire that whatever may be my lot through life I may be enabled to acknowledge the hand of God in all things." (Emma) "And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things, whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them." (Abraham 3:25) *Do we believe in a God whose revelations are easy to understand and a God whose revelations are difficult to understand?

PRIESTHOOD KEYS:

John the Baptist conferred the Aaronic Priesthood upon Joseph & Oliver Keys of Ministering of Angels, gospel of repentance, baptism. (D&C 13:1, 84:26) Peter, James & John conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood upon Joseph & Oliver. Keys of the kingdom, keys to open the gospel to all the world. (D&C 112:16, 30-32; 124:128) Keys of the mysteries of the kingdom, knowledge of God. (D&C 84:18-22) Keys of the Church, keys of all the spiritual blessings of the church. (D&C 42:69, 107:18) Moroni--Keys of the Book of Mormon (D&C 27:5) Moses--Keys of the gathering of Israel and the leading of the ten tribes. (D&C 110:11) Elias-- Keys of the restoration of all things including Abrahamic covenant. (D&C 27:6, 110:12) Elijah—Keys of the sealing power. (D&C 27:9,110:13-16, 128:21) (Elder Russell M. Nelson, Keys of the Priesthood, Ensign, Nov. 1987)

HOW CAN YOU BE PROACTIVE IN THE DATING PROCESS:

KEEP FOCUS ON "BECOMING" (Socially, Emotionally, Physically/Temporally, Spiritually) SEEK OPPORTUNITIES TO GET TO KNOW PEOPLE (GROUP ACTIVITIES, SERVICE ACTIVITIES, EVENTS, HANGING OUT w/ FRIENDS, ETC) LIVE RELATIONALLY BUILD RELATIONSHIPS--DATE A VARIETY OF PEOPLE TO UNDERSTAND THE BEST COMBINATION FOR YOU. PROACTIVELY SEEK TO DEEPEN SELECT RELATIONSHIPS- INVITE—Make yourself available. Let them know you are interested. "A POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARD OTHERS AND A POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARD YOURSELF ARE THE FINAL, NECESSARY ELEMENTS TO CORRECTLY CHOOSING A MATE. IF YOU DEVELOP THEM, YOU'LL BE ONE STEP AHEAD. BECAUSE THESE TWO FACTORS-- A WILLINGNESS TO SEE OTHERS POSITIVELY, AND A WILLINGNESS TO CURB YOUR OWN NEGATIVITY-- ARE ALSO THE TWO BEST STRATEGIES, ONCE YOU'VE CHOSEN A MATE, FOR MAKING IT WORK." (JUDITH SILLS- CLINICAL PYSCHOLOGIST)

PROACTIVE IN DATING PROCESS:

KEEP FOCUS ON "BECOMING" AND BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS SEEK OPPORTUNITIES TO GET TO KNOW PEOPLE (GROUP ACTIVITIES, EVENTS, HANGING OUT?, FRIENDS, ETC) BUILD RELATIONSHIPS--DATE A VARIETY OF PEOPLE TO UNDERSTAND THE BEST COMBINATION FOR YOU. PROACTIVELY SEEK TO DEEPEN SELECT RELATIONSHIPS- INVITE—Make yourself available. Let them know you are interested. "Simple and more frequent dates allow both men and women to "shop around" in a way that allows extensive evaluation of the prospects. The old-fashioned date was a wonderful way to get acquainted with a member of the opposite sex. It encouraged conversation. It allowed you to see how you treat others and how you are treated in a one-on-one situation. It gave opportunities to learn how to initiate and sustain a mature relationship. None of that happens in hanging out." (Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Dating vs. Hanging Out, Ensign, June 2006) "PART OF MAKING IT EASIER IS TO AVOID IMPLYING THAT A DATE IS SOMETHING VERY SERIOUS... WE MUST ESTABLISH A MUTUAL EXPECTATION THAT TO GO ON A DATE IS NOT TO IMPLY A CONTINUING COMMITMENT." (Elder Oaks) "You may find that the best preparation you can make for marriage is to learn to love God and to love yourself. When you have a secure, spiritual knowledge of yourself as a child of God, you will find a sense of personal confidence and identity that makes a good relationship possible. Like some people, you may find that you need to learn to be more honest and vulnerable in a relationship, and that you need to learn to believe in your own loveableness. As you develop those abilities, the love in your relationship can be sustained by a mutual conviction that you are loved by each other.Then you can know the delight of being trusted with one another's ideas and feelings. And you can know the joyous, awesome capacity to give that comes with loving."(Gawain Wells, Breaking Up without Going to Pieces, Ensign, June 1982) "Our most righteous desires maY elude us or come in different ways or at different times than we have sought to plan. For example, we cannot be sure that we will marry as soon as we desire... We should commit ourselves to the priorities and standards we will follow on matters we do control and persist faithfully in those commitments, whatever happens to us because of the agency of others or the timing of the Lord. When we do this, we will have a constancy in our lives that will give us direction and peace. - Elder Dallin H. Oaks

BLESSINGS OF TEMPLE WORSHIP

Long term: "For behold, this is my work and my glory--is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." (Moses 1:39) Short term: *place of instruction *place of thanksgiving *place of peace *place of revelation *place of blessings—covenants & promises "The greatest compliment that can be earned here in this life is to be known as a covenant keeper." (President Russell M. Nelson, Covenants, Ensign, Nov. 2011) PREPARATION FOR TEMPLE BLESSINGS "We need the opportunity to renew our covenants each week as we partake of the sacrament. Latter-day prophets and apostles have taught that when we worthily partake of the sacrament, we can renew not only our baptismal covenant but "all covenants entered into with the Lord." (Sister Carole M. Stephens, Do You Know What We Have? Oct. Gen. Conf. 2013) Temple Recommend/ Worthiness: "An individual is required to keep the commandments of HIM whose house it is. HE has set the standards. We enter the temple as HIS GUESTS." Physically: Modest clothing, (white temple clothing) Intellectual/Spiritual: Study of topics (Bible Dictionary...) Intellectual/Spiritual: Study of topics (Bible Dictionary) Anoint (page 609, paragraphs 1, 4) Atonement (page 617, paragraphs 1-2) Christ (page 633, paragraphs 1-3) Covenant (page 651, paragraphs 1-2) Fall of Adam (page 670, paragraphs 1-2) Sacrifices (pages 765-66, paragraph 1) Temple (pages 780-81, paragraphs 1-3) Exodus 20-29 Leviticus 8 2 Chronicles 6 Moses Abraham Elder Boyd K. Packer counseled: "The ordinances and ceremonies of the temple are simple. They are beautiful. They are sacred. They are kept confidential lest they be given to those who are unprepared. Curiosity is not a preparation. Deep interest itself is not a preparation. Preparation for the ordinances includes preliminary steps: faith, repentance, baptism, confirmation, worthiness, a maturity and dignity worthy of one who comes invited as a guest into the house of the Lord." (The Holy Temple, Ensign, Feb, 1995, 32) TEMPLE CLOTHING: "However, the real battles of life in our modern day will be won by those who are clad in spiritual armor—an armor consisting of faith in God, faith in self, faith in one's cause, and faith in one's leaders.... The [holy garment] strengthens the wearer to resist temptation, fend off evil influences, and stand firmly for the right." (Elder Asay) PURPOSES OF HOLY GARMENTS: 1. A reminder of the sacred covenants made with the Lord in His holy house, 2. A protective covering for the body, 3. A symbol of the modesty of dress and living that should characterize the lives of all the humble followers of Christ. "How is is worn is an outward expression of an inward commitment." (Elder Carlos E. Asay, The Temple Garment: An Outward Expression of an Inward Commitment, Ensign, Aug. 1997) PREPARATION FOR TEMPLE WORSHIP: 1. Prepare physically- go with sufficient rest Plan ahead so you are not hurried or under pressure 2. Prepare spiritually- (prayer, study, fasting?) "What we gain from the temple will depend to a large degree on what we take to the temple in the way of humility and reverence and a desire to learn." (Elder Packer) 3. Prepare intellectually—Go with a specific question and/or purpose (to serve, to receive instruction, to find peace, to get revelation, to give thanks, to seek a special blessing...) "And that they may GROW UP in thee, and receive a fulness of the Holy Ghost.... And that this house may be a house of prayer , a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of glory and of God... That all the incomings of they people, ..may be in the name of the Lord; that all their outgoings from this house may be in the name of the Lord." (D&C 109: 15-19) "Being in the Lord's house can help us to be different from the world in order to make more difference in the world." (Elder Nelson, Preparing for Blessings of the Temple, Ensign, Mar. 2002)

UNIT 8: LOVE-REVELATION

MATE SELECTION (REFER ALSO TO CLASS QUOTES FROM UNIT 7B) *Someone who desires to move in the same direction and achieve the same goals as you do *Someone whom you love and enjoy *Someone whose weaknesses you are willing and able to share and bear *Someone who can and will draw the best out of you *Someone of whom the Lord would approve *Someone with whom you have a high level of compatibility: (Religious beliefs, personality, level of ambition, same ideas re children, intimacy, shared interests, role expectations.) REVELATION AND MATE SELECTION: "Yea, behold, I will tell you in your MIND and in your HEART, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart. Now, behold, this is the SPIRIT OF REVELATION...(D&C 8:2-3) "Confirmations generally come as a process, rather than an event. In other words, there are many confirming moments and feelings along the way, rather than a single dramatic experience. For example, if a couple repeatedly feels peace and joy and happiness when they are together, if they are inspired to be their best, then what has the spirit been telling them all along? Does the Lord approve? On the other hand, if they repeatedly feel anxiety, concern, doubt, darkness, a lack of peace or little or no motivation to be their best when they are together, then what has the spirit been telling them?"

ORDINANCES & COVENANTS:

Ordinance= physical enactment of the making of a covenant, acts that have spiritual meaning. Covenant= promises that bind us to each other and to God *We make covenants by means of ordinances. The ordinance is the outward (bodily) manifestations of an inner covenant. Ordinances in the Church include: *administration to the sick (James 5:14-15), *blessing the sacrament (D&C 20:77, 79), *baptism by immersion (Matt. 3:16; D&C 20:72-74), *conferring the Holy Ghost (D&C 20:68; 33:15), *blessing of children (D&C 20:70), *conferring the priesthood (D&C 84:6-16; 107:41-52), *temple ordinances (D&C 124:39) *marriage in the new and everlasting covenant (D&C 132:19-20).

*CONSEQUENCES/ BLESSINGS OF THE FALL:

PHYSICAL DEATH: Separation of the body and spirit- mortal death *Resurrected body. >>>Exalted body PROCREATION: Ability to have children, all creations to reproduce *To have eternal "increase", continue in family units SPIRITUAL DEATH: Separation from the presence of God *Reunited with God with ability to progress and become perfected EXPERIENCE OPPOSITION IN MORTALITY: *Opportunity to choose, gain knowledge, experience *Obtain a Christ-like character - LEARN HOW TO CARE FOR A BODY + SPIRIT = SOUL -ABILITY FOR PROGRESSION >>> ETERNAL LIFE "We are sons and daughters of heavenly parents, who sent us forth to have this earthly experience to prepare us for the blessing of eternal families." (Sis Beck)

OUR PROGRESSION BECAUSE OF CHRIST:

PHYSICAL DEATH: Separation of the body and spirit- mortal death *Resurrected body..exalted body PROCREATION: Ability to have children, all creations to reproduce *To have eternal "increase" SPIRITUAL DEATH: Separation from the presence of God/ Separation by sin *Reunited with God with ability to progress to become like Him. (Godhood) EXPERIENCE OPPOSITION IN MORTALITY: Opportunity to choose- AGENCY *Obtain a Christ-like character This infinite Atonement of Christ was possible because:(1) He was the only sinless man ever to live on this earth and therefore was not subject to the spiritual death resulting from sin, (2) He was the Only Begotten of the Father and therefore possessed the attributes of godhood that gave Him power over physical death, and (3) He was apparently the only one sufficiently humble and willing in the premortal council to be foreordained to that service. (Jeffrey R. Holland, "The Atonement," Ensign, March 2008) "The temporal death of the fall is replaced by the state of immortality which comes because of the atonement and resurrection of the Lord. The body and spirit which separated, incident to what men call the natural death, are reunited in immortality, in an inseparable connection that never again will permit the mortal body to see corruption." (Elder Bruce R. McConkie, MD, p. 62) "Some gifts coming from the Atonement are universal, infinite, and unconditional. These include His ransom for Adam's original transgression so that no member of the human family is held responsible for that sin. Another universal gift is the Resurrection from the dead of every man, woman, and child who lives, has ever lived, or ever will live on earth. (Jeffrey R. Holland, "The Atonement," Ensign, March 2008) "The spiritual death of the fall is replaced by the spiritual life of the atonement, in that all who believe and obey the gospel law gain spiritual or eternal life—life in the presence of God where those who enjoy it are alive to things of righteousness or things of the Spirit." (Elder Bruce R. McConkie, MD, p. 62)

WHAT IS A PROPHET, SEER & REVELATOR?

PROPHET= Mortal man, Called by God, Given priesthood keys and authority to represent God, God uses him to direct His work, God reveals eternal truths to Him SEER= Reveals/perceives HIDDEN truth. A seer is able to see whatever is expedient in the past, present, or future and is able to interpret and clarify eternal truths. REVELATOR= A Bearer of NEW truth. A revelator makes known, with the Lord's help, something before unknown. It may be new or forgotten truth, or a new or forgotten application of known truth to man's need. "Because the Lord is kind, He calls servants to warn people of danger. That call to warn is made harder and more important by the fact that the warnings of most worth are about dangers that people don't yet think are real."(President Henry B. Eyring, Ensign, Nov. 1998,32) President David O. McKay once posed the question to the members of the Church, "If at this moment each one of you were asked to state in one sentence or phrase the most distinguishing feature of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, what would be your answer? He then answered his own question, stating simply, the "divine authority of the priesthood."

HOW DO COVENANTS BLESS OUR LIVES?

President Hinckley has promised; "I make you a promise that if you will go to the house of the Lord, you will be blessed, life will be better for you. Avail yourselves of the great opportunity to go to the Lord's house and thereby partake of all the marvelous blessings that are yours to be received there." (Ensign, July 1997, 73) "When we observe the covenants we make at the altar of sacrifice, we discover hidden reservoirs of strength."(Elder Hafen) HOW ARE WE STRENGTHENED BY THE POWER OF OUR COVENANTS? (ELDER CHRISTOFFERSON) 1. Strengthened by Gifts and Blessings "In the covenant path we find a steady supply of gifts and help." 2. Strengthened with Increased Faith "Covenants...produce the faith necessary to persevere and to do all things that are expedient in the Lord." 3. Strengthened through the "Power of Godliness" "Our covenant commitment to Him permits our Heavenly Father to let His divine influence, "the power of godliness" flow into our lives." Godliness -- 'the power of becoming like God' is obtained through the ordinances of the priesthood.' (Elder D. Todd Christofferson) "Covenants not only commit us to being unshakable in our devotion to God, they remind us God will always be unshakable in his devotion toward us. And though we may falter and make mistakes, he never falters. He never makes a mistake. He is ever faithful to us. That is the beauty and majesty inherent in the covenants we make with God." (Sister Patricia Holland, To Rejoice as Women, 99-100)

WHAT IS THE PRIESTHOOD?

Priesthood ="The power of God delegated to man by which man can act in the earth for the salvation of the human family." (President Joseph F. Smith) (Priesthood power)=Power of God that emanates from the priesthood. Priesthood keys= the RIGHT and POWER of presidency. They are the directing, controlling, and governing power. Those who hold them are empowered to direct the manner in which others use their priesthood."(Elder Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of Faith [1985], 309). (PROPHET, FIRST PRESIDENCY, QUORUM OF TWELVE APOSTLES. PRESIDENCY OF SEVENTY, TEMPLE PRESIDENTS, MISSION PRESIDENTS, STAKE ,DISTRICT PRESIDENTS, BISHOP/ BRANCH PRES. QUORUM PRESIDENTS) Priesthood offices= Areas of responsibility, organization of groups/quorums, (Each office has certain duties of service assigned to it.). The four offices in the Aaronic Priesthood are deacon, teacher, priest, and bishop. The offices in the Melchizedek Priesthood include elder, high priest, patriarch, seventy, and apostle. Priesthood authority= the exclusive right to act in the name of God as his authorized agents, authorization to perform ordinances for the purpose of opening certain spiritual blessings to all individuals/ to perform a priesthood function, All that is done under the direction of those priesthood keys is done with priesthood authority." (Elder Oaks) "The keys of the priesthood are the RIGHT and POWER of presidency. They are the directing, controlling, and governing power. Those who hold them are empowered to direct the manner in which others use their priesthood." (Elder Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of Faith [1985], 309) The Priesthood in general is the authority given to man to act for God. Every man ordained to any degree of the Priesthood has this authority delegated to him. But it is necessary that every act performed under this authority shall be done at the proper time and place, in the proper way, and after the proper order. The power of directing these labors constitutes the keys of the Priesthood."(Pres. Joseph F. Smith, Gospel Doctrine, 136) John the Baptist conferred the Aaronic Priesthood upon Joseph & Oliver Keys of Ministering of Angels, gospel of repentance, baptism. (D&C 13:1, 84:26) Peter, James & John conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood upon Joseph & Oliver. Keys of the kingdom, keys to open the gospel to all the world. (D&C 112:16, 30-32; 124:128) Keys of the mysteries of the kingdom, knowledge of God. (D&C 84:18-22) Keys of the Church, keys of all the spiritual blessings of the church. (D&C 42:69, 107:18) Moroni--Keys of the Book of Mormon (D&C 27:5) Moses--Keys of the gathering of Israel and the leading of the ten tribes. (D&C 110:11) Elias-- Keys of the restoration of all things including Abrahamic covenant. (D&C 27:6, 110:12) Elijah—Keys of the sealing power. (D&C 27:9,110:13-16, 128:21) (President Russell M. Nelson, Keys of the Priesthood, Ensign, Nov. 1987) "Whoever functions in an office or calling received from one who holds priesthood keys exercises priesthood authority in performing her or his assigned duties. Whoever exercises priesthood authority should forget about their rights and concentrate on their responsibilities." (Elder Dallin H. Oaks, The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood, Ensign, May 2014)

WHAT ARE THE FOUNDATIONAL ROOTS OF CONVERSION AND TESTIMONY:

ROOTS= ¨This is Christ's Church ¨His power and authority has been restored on earth through Joseph Smith. ¨The keys of the priesthood are held by Living Prophets" ¨How?>>>>Read the Book of Mormon, Seek witness of the spirit LEAVES= (lesser importance- NOT the roots of conversion or testimony) ex: Church History, Esoteric doctrines, policies, etc...

ATONEMENT & SIN:

SIN=DIsobedience to God's law, going against what we know is right, going against our conscience. WEAKNESS= lack of knowledge/understanding, lack of skill/ability, vulnerabilities, limitations "Pride is a problem because it leads to sin... Pride is also a problem because it prevents God from making proper use of our weakness. God is patient and generous with all our weaknesses with this caveat: that we be humble and have faith in Him. If we are humble and trust Him, He can make weak things become strong unto us. If we are prideful and trust ourselves, the adversary will work hard to make weak things become sin unto us... Humility is the antidote for weakness, Repentance is the antidote for sin ..." (Wendy Ulrich, Weakness is Not Sin, p. 56-57)

PERSONAL PREPAREDNESS: PREPARATION IS KEY

SOCIALLY: *COMMUNICATION SKILLS *ABILITY TO SERVE, UPLIFT & NURTURE OTHERS EMOTIONALLY/ MENTAL: *CONFIDENCE- SELF-ESTEEM *ABILITY TO REPLACE UNHEALTHY THOUGHTS WITH PRODUCTIVE THOUGHTS *HABITS/ PATTERNS OF DILIGENCE, DISCIPLINE, AMBITION PHYSICALLY/ TEMPORAL: * PHYSICAL CARE-REST, NUTRITION , SLEEP *FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT, HOME MANAGEMENT SPIRITUALLY: *DAILY (and regular) SPIRITUAL HABITS, *BUILD CONFIDENCE AND SELF-RELIANCE IN YOUR OWN ABILITY TO HEAR AND HEED REVELATION PERSONAL MATURITY: Dependent people work from a "you" paradigm. Independent people work from an "I" paradigm. Interdependent people work from a "we" paradigm. (Stephen R. Covey, 7 Habits of Highly Successful People) "Interdependent people work from a "we" paradigm. They say: "We can do it together." They have a highly cooperative pattern of interaction and look for win-win solutions. ..They draw strengths out of others and empower them with the confidence to use those resources to solve problems, to contribute, and progress." "They are Christ-centered. They recognize their absolute dependence upon God and understand successful relationships must include Him. ...They understand to love God is to love others and themselves." (Stephen R. Covey, 7 Habits of Highly Successful People)

COVENANTS=

Sacred= holy Sacrifice= to make holy Sacrament= holy /'solemn oath' Consecrated=to make sacred or to devote to holy purposes Covenant= to come together -An agreement between God and man, an accord whose terms are set by God- Bible Dictionary. - It is a sacred promise with God. -CONDUITS FOR GRACE Dedicated= to set apart from the world TEMPLUM-latin= BETH ELOHIM- hebrew (abode of Deity) HOUSE OF THE LORD

HOW DO MISSIONARY SERVICE PRINCIPLES RELATE TO DATING?

See dating as a spiritual - not just social activity Realize God is even more interested in your success then you are. He will help you. Be proactive - (You wouldn't sit in your apartment or just hope investigators would come to you. Be proactive in either asking others on dates or putting yourself in situations and places where you can be asked.) See each date as a beautiful son or daughter of God and treat them that way. Leave them better than you found them. Instead of just socializing - seek to serve those you date. Honor agency - you are to invite not coerce. Do not let rejection or heartbreak keep you from finding heaven. The more you love - the less artificial your efforts will be, the more natural it will be...and the more enjoyable it will be. (Michael Goodman)

UNIT 6- ORDINANCES AND COVENANTS:

The Book of Mormon is a tangible sign that the Lord has commenced to gather His children of covenant Israel. This book, written for our day, states as one of its purposes that 'ye may know that the covenant which the Father hath made with the children of Israel... is already beginning to be fulfilled... For behold, the Lord will remember his covenant which he hath made unto his people of the house of Israel." (Pres. Russell M. Nelson, Covenants, Ensign, Nov. 2011) "When we realize that we are children of the covenant, we know who we are and what God expects of us. His law is written in our hearts. He is our God and we are His people."(President Russell M. Nelson, Covenants, Ensign, Nov. 2011)

WHY IS CHARITY ESSENTIAL IN RELATIONSHIPS?

●"Above all the attributes of godliness and perfection, charity is the one most devoutly to be desired. Charity is more than love, far more; it is everlasting love, perfect love, the pure love of Christ which endureth forever. It is love so centered in righteousness that the possessor has no aim or desire except for the eternal welfare of his own soul and for the souls of those around him."(Elder Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, 121) ●It is what makes us most LOVEABLE. ●If you want to prepare yourself for marriage-- develop charity. ●If you want to choose an eternal companion wisely-- choose a companion who is devoted to developing charity. ●If you want to have a happy marriage- develop charity. ●If you want to learn how to communicate well--develop charity. ●If you want to have healthy sexual intimacy after marriage- develop charity. ●If you want to be an influence for good in all your relationships- develop charity. No, the kind of "true love" I am talking about today is not something that we chase. Rather, it is something that we choose, using the divine gift of agency. Anyone—regardless of physical appearance, emotional appeal, or marital status—can have this true love. It has two components: (1) a selfless attitude, and (2) selfless action. (Elder Turley, True Love) "We should begin our search for an eternal companion with greater concern about our ability to give love than about our need to receive it...Indeed it may be our own capacity to give love that makes us most lovable. The greater our own personal substance is and the deeper our own mental, emotional, and spiritual reserves are, the greater will be our capacity to nurture and love others, especially our companion."(Elder Marlin K. Jensen, A Union of Love and Understanding, Ensign, Oct. 46-51) "I do not dwell upon your faults, and you shall not upon mine. Charity, which is love, covereth a multitude of sins, and I have often covered up all the faults among you; but the prettiest thing is to have no faults at all. We should cultivate a meek, quiet and peaceable spirit... When persons manifest the least kindness and love to me, O what power it has over my mind..." (Prophet Joseph Smith, Teachings of Presidents of the Church, 428) ●1 Peter 4:8 JST: "preventeth a multitude of sins"

5 TESTS OF TRUE LOVE (ELDER WIDTSOE):

●1. True love of man and woman always INCLUDES THE LOVE OF GOD and the proof of our love of God is obedience to His law. ●2. Love is founded in TRUTH (and HONESTY)...Lies and deceit, or any other violation of the moral law, are proofs of loves absence. ●3. Love does not (intentionally) offend or hurt or injure the loved one. LOVE IS KIND! ●4. Love is a positive ACTIVE force. It [serves and] helps the loved one. If there is a need, love tries to supply it. If there is a weakness, love [replaces] it with strength. *Love is a verb! ●5. True love SACRIFICES for the loved ones...