Blog Post 3: Honoring Marital Vows with Complete Fidelity



"Honoring Marital Vows with Complete Fidelity"

Marriage is a sacred covenant between husband and wife, and ultimately, between them and God. In The Family: A Proclamation to the World, fidelity within marriage is emphasized as essential to the strength and sanctity of the marital relationship. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of honoring marital vows with complete fidelity, how this commitment is foundational to a successful marriage, and practical ways couples can strengthen their resolve to remain faithful to each other.

The Sacredness of Marital Vows:

Marital vows are more than just words spoken during a wedding ceremony—they are sacred promises made to one another and to God. The Proclamation states, "Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children." This love and care are rooted in the promises made on the wedding day: to love, honor, and cherish one another for all eternity.

Complete fidelity in marriage means being fully committed to your spouse in thought, word, and action. It encompasses emotional, spiritual, and physical faithfulness. This commitment is not just about avoiding infidelity but about actively nurturing and protecting the marital relationship from anything that could weaken or harm it.

The Importance of Fidelity in Marriage:

Fidelity is the bedrock of trust in a marriage. When spouses honor their marital vows, they create a relationship built on mutual trust, respect, and love. This trust allows both partners to feel secure, valued, and loved, fostering an environment where they can grow together spiritually and emotionally.

In contrast, infidelity—whether emotional or physical—can shatter the trust that is vital to a strong marriage. It can lead to deep wounds, loss of trust, and even the dissolution of the marriage covenant. The Lord has made it clear in His teachings that fidelity is non-negotiable for those who wish to maintain a covenant relationship with Him and with their spouse.

Scriptural Foundations of Marital Fidelity:

The scriptures provide clear guidance on the importance of marital fidelity. In the Ten Commandments, we are instructed, "Thou shalt not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14). This commandment underscores the seriousness with which God views the sanctity of marriage. In the New Testament, the Savior taught, "But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). This teaches us that fidelity begins in the heart and mind and extends to our actions.

The Apostle Paul also counseled the Corinthians to "flee fornication" (1 Corinthians 6:18), emphasizing the importance of avoiding situations or behaviors that could lead to unfaithfulness. The teachings of the prophets, both ancient and modern, consistently affirm that fidelity is a foundational principle of a Christ-centered marriage.

Practical Ways to Strengthen Fidelity:

  1. Prioritize Your Spouse: Make your spouse your top priority, above all other relationships. This means spending quality time together, showing appreciation, and consistently nurturing your connection. Prioritizing your spouse helps prevent feelings of neglect and keeps your relationship strong.

  2. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries with others, especially those of the opposite sex. This includes being cautious with close friendships, avoiding situations that could lead to temptation, and being transparent with your spouse about your interactions with others.

  3. Guard Your Thoughts: As the Savior taught, fidelity begins in the heart and mind. Be mindful of what you allow into your thoughts—avoid pornography, inappropriate media, or any other influences that could lead to lustful thoughts or behaviors. Focus on uplifting and wholesome thoughts that strengthen your commitment to your spouse.

  4. Communicate Openly: Open communication is key to maintaining trust and fidelity in marriage. Discuss your feelings, concerns, and any potential challenges with your spouse. By keeping the lines of communication open, you can address issues before they become serious problems.

  5. Strengthen Your Relationship with God: A strong relationship with God is essential to maintaining fidelity in marriage. Regular prayer, scripture study, and worship together as a couple will help you stay focused on your covenants and seek the Lord's guidance in your marriage.

Honoring marital vows with complete fidelity is not just a responsibility; it is a privilege and a source of great joy. When couples remain faithful to each other in thought, word, and action, they create a marriage that is strong, enduring, and centered on the Savior. Fidelity is the key to building a relationship of trust, love, and mutual respect, where both partners can grow together in the gospel. As you strive to honor your marital vows, remember that you are not alone—God is your partner in this covenant, and He will help you strengthen your marriage as you turn to Him.

Call to Action:

Take a moment to reflect on your marriage or future marriage. How can you and your spouse strengthen your commitment to fidelity? What steps can you take to safeguard your marriage against the challenges that may arise? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let’s support each other in building marriages that honor the sacred covenants we have made.

Resource: Hawkins, Alan J., et al. Successful Marriages and Families: Proclamation Principles and Research Perspectives. BYU Studies and School of Family Life, Brigham Young University, 2016.

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