Why Church Leaders are Emphasizing Covenants

You probably noticed a theme in the most recent General Conference. That's right, the word "covenant" was mentioned 194 times - the most at any general conference. Did you notice?

Making and keeping covenants in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a fundamental aspect of our faith, deeply woven into the fabric of our theology and practice. These sacred promises are not merely formalities but are binding agreements with God, carrying immense spiritual significance for members of the Church.

Understanding the concept of covenants is essential. In our church, a covenant is a sacred agreement between an individual and God. This agreement involves specific promises and commitments on both sides. For example, when a person is baptized as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they make a covenant with God to follow His commandments and strive to live a Christlike life. Similarly, temple covenants involve promises made to God regarding obedience, service, and consecration, and more.

One of the central teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the belief in the eternal nature of families. We believe that through temple ordinances and covenants, families can be sealed together for eternity. This concept is deeply comforting and meaningful, as it provides a sense of continuity and unity beyond mortality. Making and keeping temple covenants is thus crucial for ensuring the eternal bond of family relationships.

Moreover, our temple covenants are pathways to spiritual growth and progression. They serve as a guide for righteous living and help individuals develop greater faith, humility, and love for God and others. The act of making covenants in the temple is a sacred and solemn experience, often accompanied by feelings of reverence and awe. This sacredness reinforces the importance of honoring and keeping these commitments.

Another aspect of the significance of covenants is their role in strengthening communities of faith. When someone makes and keeps these sacred promises, they contribute to the collective spiritual welfare of not only the church, but their family and community. This sense of shared commitment fosters unity, support, and encouragement among members, creating a strong foundation for the Church as a whole.

Making and keeping covenants are viewed as a source of divine guidance and protection. By committing to live according to God's laws and principles, you can invite His blessings into your life. This can manifest in various ways, including spiritual insights, guidance in decision-making, and increased resilience during life's challenges.

It's important to note that making and keeping temple covenants is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Members of the Church strive to continually renew and strengthen their commitment to God through regular temple attendance, personal prayer, scripture study, and service to others. This consistent effort is seen as essential for maintaining a close relationship with God and experiencing His blessings in abundance.

The importance of making and keeping covenants cannot be overstated. These sacred promises form the foundation of our faith and practice, providing spiritual guidance, unity, and divine blessings to individuals and communities. Through faithful adherence to these covenants, we seek to draw closer to God and live lives of purpose, service, and love.