Failproof Recipe for a Happy Marriage

One evening before climbing under my covers, I reached for my scriptures. At the time, I was finishing up my chapter on marriage in “A Practical Guide for Latter-day Saint Stepfamilies.” Throughout the week I had pondered key ingredients for a happy marriage. The scriptures fell open to D&C 4. (Which is not surprising, because I turn to Section 4 often.) When I read the verses this time it took on a whole new meaning. I found to my wonder that I was reading a failproof recipe for a happy marriage. ALL of the key ingredients for a strong, healthy, happy marriage are here.

I promise that if both wife and husband do all in their power to liken this scripture unto themself, they will not only come closer to Jesus Christ but connect on a beautifully deep level with their spouse.

1 Now behold, a marvelous work [marriage] is about to come forth among the (insert your name and spouse’s name.)

2 Therefore, O (insert our name) that embark in the service of God [and] (insert your spouse’s name), see that ye serve him (and insert your spouse’s name) with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.

3 Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God [and] (insert your spouse’s name) ye are called to the work;

4 For behold the field is white already to harvest; and lo, he that thrusteth in his sickle with his might, the same layeth up in store that he perisheth not, but bringeth salvation to his soul;

5 And faith, hope, charity and love with an eye single to the glory of God, quality him for the work.

6 Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence. 

7 Ask and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Amen.