Prophetic Counsel on Marital Timing

Prophetic Counsel on Marital Timing

When it comes to counsel about timing related to dating and marriage, our prophetic leaders teach us principles rather than provide precise recommendations. However, this does not mean that the ideal timing of marriage is relative to each person. Prophets and apostles have repeatedly emphasized the importance of marriage in God's plan and the priority that should be given to marriage as young people transition to adulthood. In a devotional with BYU students, President Gordon B. Hinckley (2006, p. 6) said, "I remind you that the association you now enjoy as students is probably the best time of your lives to find your own "Beloved Eternal Companion." Do so with a prayer in your heart. It will be the most important decision you will ever make. It will influence your life from now through all eternity. Elder Dallin H. Oaks (2006, p.13) has also taught, "It's marriage time. That is what the Lord intends for His young adult sons and daughters."

 Hawkins, A., Dollahite, D., & Draper, T. (2012). Successful marriages and families. Provo, Utah: BYU Studies and School of Family Life, Brigham Young University.