“LOVE IS A CHOICE: Making Your Marriage and Family Stronger,” by Lynn G. Robbins, Deseret Book, $13.99, 288 pages (nf)
Elder Lynn G. Robbins, of the presidency of the Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, teaches that love is a covenant in his new book, “Love is a Choice: Making Your Marriage and Family Stronger.”
“Because love is as much a verb as it is a noun, the phrase ‘I love you’ is as much a promise of behavior and commitment as it is an expression of feeling,” Elder Robbins instructs in his book. “When we choose to love (the verb) and decide to act by expressing and showing it, only then can the noun of love begin to blossom.”
Elder Robbins shares quotes from LDS Church leaders and adds scripture passages to emphasize the importance of choice and commitment in love. He imparts his experience as a founder of Franklin Quest (now Franklin Covey) to emphasize the power of 100 percent responsibility and the consequences that come from avoidance techniques. Elder Robbins notes, “When we avoid being responsible, we limit our own agency.”
Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of love, and Elder Robbins explains how to apply the attributes of the Lord found in 1 Corinthians 13 to strengthen relationships.
Elder Robbins acknowledges not all associations are perfect and discusses how Christ’s Atonement can help those who may be in an abusive relationship. Elder Robbins offers empowering principles to take control and the need to forgive yourself and others to access Christ’s grace.
Elder Robbins’ insightful study on “to do” and “to be” can assist those who are striving to improve their lives and rear their children. By accepting Christ’s invitation to become as he is, and working toward that goal, people will be able to see the good in themselves and others, he said.
“Love is a Choice” includes an introduction and two parts. Part 1 is titled "Choosing Love" and includes sections on agency, responsibility, virtues, self-reliance and love. In Part 2, he presents "Helpful Resources for Practicing Great Choices" with sections on finance, family home evening and Christlike virtues.
Elder Robbins invites readers to study his list of 100 Christlike virtues to help increase their faith in Christ, become more like him and develop spiritual strength for a “happily ever after.”
Email: caresa.randall@gmail.com