when God created man or in other words created Adam and Eve, God gave them a commandment to multiply and replenish the earth. This was a commandment to reproduce. This has been part of the plan from the beginning for all of God’s children. We have been endowed with the power of procreation. to have the ability to have children of our own and continue the plan generation to generation.
When the Family Proclamation was read to the world, it reemphasized the importance of multiplying and replenishing the earth. This was to remind everyone that it is part of the plan for them to have children and families. that they are to strive for a future with kids. there are no exceptions to this it is part of our eternal plan to have family either in this life or the life after but we must always strive to be ready for one.
In the Proclamation it states that the powers of procreation are divinely appointed. this means that it’s powers are to be used by those chosen to use it. Who is chosen? those who are lawfully married. procreation outside of the family is a misuse of the power give to all of us. there are blessing that may come from the misuse but the best blessing for you and your children are found inside the bonds of marriage between man and wife. it is an example set by our heavenly parents. these powers are sacred and entrusted to us because God knows we have the powers to tell ourselves no until the time is appropriate. we have been given the agency to choose our actions but also given commandments for the bodies we have been given. these commandments are their to keep us and our loved ones safe from the adversary.
In summary we are commanded to have children but in the appropriate time and season between husband and wife. The gift of our bodies and the powers that come with it are under our agency but the responsibilities also fall upon our shoulders. may we be wise as we make our choices in life to choose the safety of ourselves and others.
Cole Bowman 