Elder Neil L. Andersen described the importance of couples going forward with faith to bear children in today’s world.
He expressed a “deep gratitude for the enormous faith shown by husbands and wives in their willingness to have children.”
Elder Andersen quoted a non-member Christian mother who said “Motherhood is not a hobby, it is a calling. It is not something to do if you can squeeze time in. It is what God gave you time for.”
Current economic and financial uncertainty make it more difficult to have children, Elder Andersen said. However, the commandment to multiply and replenish the earth is still in effect today. The Lord blessed Lehi and Sariah as they had children in difficult times and will do the same for righteous parents today.
He expressed understanding to those who cannot have children in this life and promised the righteous will not be denied the blessing of children.
“We cannot always explain the difficulties of our mortality,” Elder Andersen said. “Sometimes life seems very unfair.”
The blessing to bring the children of God into homes is wonderful, he said. It is important to seek guidance of Heavenly Father on when to do this.
“Let us humbly and prayerfully seek to understand and accept God’s commandments, reverently listening for the voice of his Holy Spirit,” Elder Andersen said.
