Fidelity

The family is ordained of God. Marriage between a man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. ...We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God.” (The Family: A Proclamation to the World, Ensign, Nov 1995, 102.)

“Fidelity includes refraining from physical contact (with someone other than your spouse) – but that is not all. Fidelity also means complete commitment, trust, and respect between husband and wife.” (Matheson, K. 2009)

“Thou shalt love thy wife with all thy heart, and shalt cleave unto her and none else.” (Doctrine & Covenants 42:22)

I believe it is becoming increasingly more difficult to “cleave unto your spouse and none else.” There are so many other things that are easier to “cleave” to (friends, social media, gym time, work, to name a few) because they require less effort than a marriage does.  Satan knows that if he can prevent us from giving our whole selves to our spouse, he keeps us from experiencing “great happiness in this life and throughout eternity.” (search Marriage @ lds.org)

“Fidelity may seem to be confining. It always will – unless we adopt God's perspective. “Through the lens of spirituality we see all the commandments of God as invitations to blessings.” Those who have loved faithfully and patiently reap a harvest of joy and companionship.” (Goddard)

Questions Goddard suggests asking yourself to check your complete fidelity:

• Have you set a standard for yourself to avoid spending time alone with a person of the opposite sex?
• Have you carefully monitored your words and actions to be sure that you do not flirt with anyone but your spouse?
• Do you carefully keep yourself out of situations where flirting and immorality are common or acceptable?
• Do you avoid websites, movies, and entertainment that turn intimacy into a matter of lust?
• Do you share appreciation for your spouse with friends so that they know of your commitment and affection for her or him?