How we know Marriage is important

                                     How we know Marriage and Family is important 

Satan is attacking marriage and family with a vengeance. He understands how important marriage between a man and women is, not only in this life but in eternity. He also understands how important our gender identity is. As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints we also should understand the importance of marriage, so we should not be surprised when marriage and gender roles are being attacked in our society. Just recently I heard that many states are allowing for three genders designations on birth certificates and driver’s license so that people who don't identify as either gender have a square to mark. When I first heard this, I was upset and anxious, but then I realized that this evidence of how important our gender identities are to Heavenly Father, because Satan is putting these ideas into the hearts of men. He has good people believe that they are being compassionate when they create laws that encourage fluid gender identity and same-sex marriage. He also encourages persecutions against those who believe in traditional marriage and the sacredness of gender identity. He wants those who believe in traditional marriage to feel guilty and that they are the ones in the wrong. I watched a talk show where a man who was compassionately and articulately defending traditional  marriage was booed at by the audience and insulted by the hosts. They twisted everything he said to make it seem like he was a bigot.

How do we fight against same -sex marriage and the concept of fluid genders without being rude or insensitive to people who are struggling with gender issues and same-sex attraction? I loved President  Oaks talk in conference. He explained our doctrine and how the ultimate plan Heavenly Father has for his children is for man and wife to have eternal increase, and for families to live together for eternity. He then explained because same -sex marriage doesn't coincide with God's plan of happiness the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day saints cannot condone it. He further explained that God loves all his children and that all will receive the blessings that they choose. He explained our doctrine without condemning anyone. I think this is how we should defend marriage and gender roles, with compassion and conviction and by bearing our testimony of eternal truths.  We can expect increase assaults against traditional marriage and gender roles in the future.  We must remember that Satan only attacks what he knows is most important, after all he will never have a family and he wants all men to be as miserable as he is. In the days ahead when marriage will be attack more and more, how do we teach our children the importance of marriage, and how do we keep out own marriages strong?