Share These Principles

The Proclamation to the World

                The proclamation was given at a time when views of the family were beginning to change and over time those views have begun to get worse. The definition of families from the world’s standpoint keeps changing. We see more and more broken families, unmarried individuals, couples choosing not to have children, and single parent homes. Marriage has begun to be taken very lightly or has been seen as having no purpose at all. Family values are continually decreasing. We as members of the church understand that marriage and families if vital to exaltation. I know that I want to learn more about the family and how I can help others understand that sacred gift God has given us.

In the first sentence the First presidency states the importance of marriage and that it is ordained of God for the union of man and woman. Marriage is one of the most important steps to return to live with God and attain eternal life. We have been created in the image of God. I think that when we truly believe and understand this we are able to be charitable to others. Judging someone’s appearance negatively is disrespectful to them, yourself, and most importantly God.  We each have a purpose here on earth to grow and to learn in order to return to our Father in Heaven. I think that in the world today people are confused. They question their purpose in life and many are questioning their gender. I know that God has made us individually and made us the gender we are so that we can fulfill the roles as such of being a mother or father.

In the premortal world we were taught God’s plan and then had the choice to follow it. Everyone on the earth has accepted the plan but some do not remember. I know that we are here to fulfill the plan and help others remember what that plan was. We then have the ability to be sealed to our families on earth in the temple to then live together beyond the veil for eternity. The family unit is where we are best able to learn and grow.

Adam and Eve where commanded to multiple and replenish the earth as are we. Much of the world now believes that there is overpopulation. I view it that God would not send his children to the earth if there was no room for them or if there was no way to sustain life. We are the agents who choose how we take care of our children or the earth. When we understand where everything comes from, humans, and the earth, then we are able to respect them. Along with the commandment to replenish the earth is that, that is to be done between husband and wife. It is a sacred gift from God. Much of the world unfortunately is very confused by this. Society’s acceptance of cohabitation, premarital sex, and abortion his degrading Heavenly Father’s plan.  Great blessing will come to those who keep procreation and the family sacred.

I love the section of the Proclamation, the family, because that to me is what the world needs to hear right now. Not only does the world need to hear it but I do. I think that sometimes marriage and having kids could seem scary but it is essential to God’s plan and he will help us fulfill those roles of fathers and mothers if we turn to him for help.    The part I liked best was that, “successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities.” The family is where we first understand the principles of the atonement and where we learn about the gospel and commandments. I know that in my future family and home, I want it to be centered on Christ.

The first presidency warns us that if we do not fulfill our duties as mothers and fathers, that we will be judged before God. We are also asked to help the community and government leaders protect the family. Right now in the world there are controversies over gay marriage, divorce laws, and abortion that affect the family. We can help others understand the role of the family and the importance of each one of us individually. 

 "We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."

 ~The Family: A Proclamation to the World

It is our duty to share these principles with others. It may be hard but these principles need to be defended. The family unit is sacred and in the world today in is disappearing.

What can you do to protect the family unit in your own family or in your community?