The Mind of Christ and the Iron Rod of Relationship

We’ve all heard the platitudes: “Find someone who complements you,” “Follow your heart,” “The one will just *know*.” While such sentiments might offer fleeting comfort, they often leave us adrift in a sea of expectation, vulnerable to the storms of earthly disappointment. John Bevere’s recent conversation with Lisa Bevere (see below) cuts through the noise, landing squarely on the bedrock principle of selfless devotion—a devotion rooted in the very mind of Christ.

Bevere draws from Philippians 2:1-5, a passage frequently referenced during temple sealings and covenants. Paul’s exhortation – “Let this mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus” – isn't a suggestion; it’s the fundamental prerequisite for enduring relationship, whether familial, fraternal, or romantic. It demands a radical shift from self-seeking to other-centeredness, a deliberate effort to esteem another “better than yourselves.” This isn't about diminishing one's own worth, but about actively prioritizing the needs and growth of the individual before you.

Consider the context: Adam, created in the image of God, was still deemed “not good” to be alone (Genesis 2:18). This wasn't merely a matter of companionship; it was a divine recognition of the inherent relational nature of our being. God, the ultimate source of all creation, exists in a community of perfected beings – the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Our earthly relationships are, therefore, reflections, however imperfect, of that eternal reality.

Yet, the path to such connection isn’t paved with feelings. It requires rigorous self-examination, a willingness to confront our own shortcomings, and a steadfast reliance on the Spirit. This is where the iron rod becomes essential. The iron rod of Revelation 1:20, held by the prophet, provides a firm and unwavering standard, guiding us through the mists of personal desire and societal pressures. It's the prophetic counsel, the teachings of the Brethren, and the diligent study of scripture that illuminate the divine pattern for relationship.

How often do we allow the allure of romantic fantasy to eclipse the foundational principles of humility, service, and covenant? How easily do we succumb to the temptations of selfish ambition and conceitedness, hindering our ability to truly see and value those around us?

The challenges Bevere addresses – spiritual misalignment, boundary setting, and the complexities of marital conflict – are not unique to romantic relationships. They are universal to all human interaction. And the solution, consistently revealed throughout the Restoration, remains the same: cultivate the mind of Christ. This isn't a passive pursuit; it's an active, lifelong devotion to aligning our will with God's, guided by the iron rod of truth.

As we strive to build stronger relationships, let us remember the words of President Howard W. Hunter: “The greatest blessing we can receive in this life is the ability to enter and abide in the temple, to make covenants with our Heavenly Father, and to keep those covenants.” It is within the temple covenants that we truly learn to love as the Savior loves – a love that is selfless, enduring, and rooted in the divine.

Consider this: Where in your own relationships do you observe a lack of selfless devotion? What specific scriptures or teachings from General Conference can help you realign your perspective?