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Divorce


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Divorce

Overview

When men and women marry, they make solemn covenants with each other and with God. Every effort should be made to keep these covenants and preserve marriage. When divorce occurs, individuals have the obligation to forgive, lift, and help rather than to condemn.

The sanctity of marriage and families is taught repeatedly in the scriptures. It has been reaffirmed by modern prophets and apostles. Despite the truths taught about the sanctity of marriage, divorce has become commonplace in the world. Because the family is central to Heavenly Father’s plan for His children, Satan seeks to destroy marriages and families. Because of the poor choices and selfishness of one or both marriage partners, marriages sometimes end in contention, separation, and divorce.

If, instead of resorting to divorce, each individual will seek the comfort and well-being of his or her spouse, couples will grow in love and unity. The gospel of Jesus Christ—including repentance, forgiveness, integrity, and love—provides the remedy for conflict in marriage.

Those who have caused a divorce through their own poor choices can repent and be forgiven. Those whose marriages have failed because of what others have done can receive strength and comfort from the Lord, who promised: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. … For my yoke is easy, and my burden light” (Matthew 11:28, 30).

Related Topics

Scriptures

Scripture References

Scripture Study Resources

Messages from Church Leaders

Additional Messages

Videos

“Marriage and Divorce”

“Saving Your Marriage”

Learning Resources

Church Magazines

“Ministering to Members Who Are Divorced,” Ensign, July 2018

“A Different Christmas,” Friend or Liahona, December 2016

“If my parents were sealed in the temple and then got divorced, which one am I sealed to?” New Era, August 2015

“Help! Someone’s Getting a Divorce,” Friend, August 2015

“Hope and Healing after Divorce,” Ensign, March 2014

“Overcoming Family Challenges,” New Era, December 2012

“Children of Divorce,” Ensign, August 2002

“Rebuilding My Life After Divorce,” Ensign, June 2000

“How the Atonement Helped Me Survive Divorce,” Ensign, April 1997

“Mending Our Marriage,” Ensign, October 1996

Study Manuals

Teachings of Presidents of the Church

Teaching Resources

Stories and Activities for Teaching Children

“Divorce,” Lesson Helps for Teaching Children