Thursday, January 22, 2009

Hold Fast To That Which Is Good: Our Families

"Parents and children should realize that strong opposition will always come against the work and will of the Lord. Because the work (and glory) of God is to bring to pass our immortality and eternal life as a family, it logically follows that the work of the adversary will strike directly at the heart of the home—the family. Relentlessly Lucifer attacks the sanctity of life and the joy of parenthood.

"Because the evil one is ever at work, our vigilance cannot be relaxed—not even for a moment.  Night and day, at home or away, we must shun sin and 'hold fast that which is good.' " - Russell M. Nelson"Set in Order Thy House," Ensign, Nov. 2001, 71

How do we hold fast to the best things in order to safeguard our families? In addition to following the commandments, here are some ideas from the Family section of For The Strength of Youth:  

“Be cheerful, helpful, and considerate of others. … Concern yourself with the needs of other family members. …

“Honor your parents by showing love and respect for them and by being obedient. … Participate in family activities and traditions, including family prayer, family home evenings, and family scripture reading. These traditions strengthen and unify families. …

“Strengthen your relationships with your brothers and sisters. They can become your closest friends”

And from the Family Proclamation:  "Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. "

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