Decembers Presidency Message

Although many of us are in different stages in our lives, each
of us has the ability to strive for a happy and successful marriage. Throughout
this month’s 1st Sunday lesson, I will focus solely on marriages. My
hope is that every sister married or not, can utilize the principles of
Repentance and Forgiveness in any relationship.
In September’s Ensign, Brother Richard Miller addressed the need
for Repentance and Forgiveness in
Marriage. He states how in most marriages, whether intentional or
inadvertent, we all end up doing things that hurt our spouse. When we approach
the need for repentance, Brother Miller suggests three ways we can strive to
eliminate the hurt; Apologizing Sincerely,
Striving to Improve, and Overcoming Pride. Elder Joe J.
Christensen states that “To develop a solid marriage, we must be able to admit
we are sorry for the mistakes we make….When conflicts in marriage arise we
should be swift to apologize and ask for forgiveness, even though we may not be
totally at fault.” Brother Miller defines that “The essence of repentance is
trying to change ourselves in ways that will make us a better people.”
As we humble ourselves and realize, we can only be perfected
through our Savior Jesus Christ, we must be quick to forgive our spouse (and
ourselves) and refrain from resentment. Forgiveness is essential for spiritual
progression. As we seek to forgive, Brother Richard Miller reminds us that Letting Go of Hurt and Relying on the Atonement “…washes away
the hurts and emotional injuries that must be anticipated in being with someone
who is imperfect.” Brother Miller also clarifies that in some situations;
“forgiveness does not mean staying in a relationship that is abusive or
dangerous….but even in those cases, the Atonement can bring personal healing.”
I hope each of you will read the article and find great value in
it. Each of us has been faced with such unique circumstances in our homes. I
pray that each of you will seek guidance from the spirit and allow the Lord to
guide you. With His help, your life’s challenges can be handled in a loving
Christ-like manner, your marriages can be strengthen and guided. I have no
doubt that with the continual use of repentance and forgiveness; your marriage
will be strengthened. I know that Heavenly Father desires each of us to receive
the blessings of these principles in our lives. We have the ability to gain a greater
understanding of the atonement and allow the Savior to provide healing and
guide us to a happier exalted
life. In the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Sister Andrea Kanooth