As I think about the concept of turning towards another and this scripture, D&C 64:33 “Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great.”Boundless things come to mind. One of the biggest things that come to mind is that as we lay the foundation for our marriages. The small things we do for each other will bring about an excellent foundation for us to stand on during troubled times.
There are many ways we can stay connected and turn towards our partners. We can spend time cleaning and talking with each other. We can turn towards each other during a rough day and speak to our spouse about it. We can be together. There are many different ways we can help each other. Each time we support our spouse, we are turning towards them. We are turning towards our spouse each time we support or even just talking about a rough day.
Dr. Gottman’s term “bids for attention” are the small things we ask each other to do. They are the “help me honey with the clothes” type of attention. When we ask our spouse for consideration or a discussion of things that are bothering us. When a bid for attention is given, be ready to pick up on it and respond by engaging with your spouse in a discussion or activity.
Faith in Christ strengthens marriages. When we have faith in Christ, we show that we wish to be closer to Heavenly Father. As we get closer to Heavenly Father, we draw closer to our spouse. It is like the triangle that I shared a couple of weeks ago. Our faith not only strengthens us but also strengthens our spouses. If we lead by example, and our spouses see our faith, they will want to improve their faith.
When we receive the marriage covenant, we also receive challenges and trials necessary for our growth and advancements as individuals and couples. My husband and I have anchored our lives in the faith and trust in Jesus Christ, no matter how severe the trails may be, we know we can work through them. We have used our scripture reading, and family prayer to bring us closer to each other. It allows us to weather the storms that the devil throws our way.
Marriage 