Saturday, July 7, 2018

Fulfilling the Sexual Stewardship in Marriage



Sex . . .

In society, we are long past the “don’t talk about it” part of sex.  The problem now is that it’s fanaticized, falsified, exaggerated and dehumanized.  God has given to man the greatest power he has- that of procreation- and Satan has taken the opportunity to make light of it, to flaunt it and to destroy its sanctity.  It’s time we brought happiness back into the privacy of the bedroom.

According to S.E. Brotherson’s “Fulfilling the Sexual Stewardship in Marriage” it is okay to read about sex and it’s okay to talk about sex.  It’s neither unmentionable nor sordid, but as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we sometimes look at it that way.

Consider these scriptures within the context of marital intimacy.

“The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth” (D&C 93:36), and “Pure knowledge … shall greatly enlarge the soul.” (D&C 121:42.) 

“The fulness of the earth is yours, … Yea, all things which come of the earth … are made for the benefit and the use of man. … And it pleaseth God that he hath given all these things unto man.” (D&C 59:16, 18, 20.) 

“The Spirit of truth … will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13.)

For what doth it profit a man if a gift is bestowed upon him, and he receive not the gift? Behold, he rejoices not in that which is given unto him, neither rejoices in him who is the giver of the gift. (D&C 88:33.)

And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith. (D&C 88:118.)

I appreciate the sentiment expressed by S.E. Brotherson that we have a gospel stewardship with regard to sexual intimacy in marriage.  We must improve or enhance that which we have given, just as we have all other areas of our life.  I would submit that the bedroom should be one of the first places that we begin our work.
It is important to be willing to open ourselves up to our spouse.  We must be willing to discuss with one another those things which would be considered inappropriate to discuss with anyone else.  We must express ourselves in a way that is comfortable, open, and pleasing to one another.  Sexual intimacy helps reunify our commitment to our spouse.  It can be a beautiful expression of love, commitment and unity.

When searching for knowledge and understanding on this delicate subject, we must consider the source of our knowledge.  D&C 88 reminds us to seek our learning from the best books.  Use the Spirit as your guide when seeking for greater understanding.  Study the scriptures and the words of prophets and apostles within that context and I promise you that you will find guidance, and your marriage will be enriched.


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