Love & Marriage

In “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints taught that “marriage between man and woman is essential to [God’s] eternal plan.” This teaching is found at the very core of Church doctrine and can be traced back to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, where God issued the commandment that they should remain together. 

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe that families can be together forever, not just on earth. This is accomplished as husband and wife are not only married but are sealed together for time and all eternity in sacred temples, putting an end to “’til death do us part.” Marriage is one of the greatest sources of joy and happiness in this life. Every relationship has its ups and downs, but overcoming trials together allows couples to grow in compassion, charity, and love. As President Russell M. Nelson said, “There is great power in a strong partnership. True partners can achieve more than the sum of each acting alone” (“Disciples of Jesus Christ—Defenders of Marriage,” August 14, 2014).

When dating, remember that a healthy, Christlike relationship is an equal partnership between two people who are willing to make sacrifices for each other and God. Real love is more than mutual attraction; love that forms a lasting relationship is built on a well-established foundation of respect, forgiveness, and hard work. In your personal search for love and happiness in marriage, remember President Boyd K. Packer’s advice when he counseled that those who are dating should “not be distracted by temptation or the fleeting need to be admired,” but that they should instead “seek the pure, eternal love that God has in store for you” (“Eternal Love,” November 3, 1963).