Finding Peace Amidst Anxiety About Making Temple Covenants

For many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the prospect of entering the house of the Lord for the first time is a moment of profound anticipation. Yet, it is also common for individuals to experience a sense of apprehension or anxiety about making temple covenants. This feeling often stems from a deep desire to be worthy and a natural human reaction to the unknown. It is important to recognize that these feelings do not indicate a lack of faith, but rather a sincere desire to honor the sacred promises made with God. As one individual who struggled with these feelings noted, Admittedly, I’m the over-preparer type so my anxiety was naturally higher than most. But with something as sacred and solemn as making covenants, I wanted to make sure I was as prepared as possible. This honest reflection highlights that the desire to be prepared is a sign of respect for the covenants themselves. Understanding that the temple is a place of learning and spiritual growth can help shift the focus from fear to peace. Testimonies (Why I Believe) often reveal that the temple is not a place of judgment, but a sanctuary where we are invited to draw closer to the Savior. The covenants we make are not meant to be burdens, but rather divine tools designed to protect and strengthen us. As President Henry B. Eyring has taught, When you keep your temple covenants and remember them, you invite the companionship of the Holy Ghost to both strengthen and purify you. This companionship is a constant source of comfort for those who may feel overwhelmed by the weight of their commitments. The purpose of these covenants is to bind us to Jesus Christ, providing us with the power to navigate the challenges of mortality. Many have found that even before they are able to enter the temple, they can begin living the principles of the covenant path. Carl Kanga Aloo, a member from Kenya, shared his experience of living as though he had made those covenants long before he could physically attend the temple. He noted, While I couldn’t attend the temple and make temple covenants, I chose to build my testimony of the gospel in other ways. Living as though I had made those covenants helped me prepare for the day I could enter the temple. His story serves as a powerful reminder that our preparation is a process of the heart. For those seeking to understand the nature of these promises, Temple Miracles often highlight how individuals find clarity and strength through the Spirit. The scriptures also provide a foundation for this understanding. In 1 Nephi, we are reminded that making covenants with the Lord arms us with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory. This power is not something we earn through perfection, but something we receive through our willingness to follow the Savior. If you are currently feeling anxiety about making temple covenants, consider focusing on the blessings that follow. President Jean B. Bingham emphasized that we should know what covenants we will be making and what blessings we will receive by being faithful to those covenants. These blessings include the power to discern between truth and error, protection from the adversary, and a greater connection to the Savior. It is also helpful to remember that the temple is a house of learning. You are not expected to understand everything on your first visit. Many members find that their understanding deepens over time as they return to the temple and seek the guidance of the Holy Ghost. Holy Ghost / Guidance and Direction is a vital part of this journey, as the Spirit will teach you what you need to know at the right time. If you are looking for further study, Teachings from Church leaders provide excellent resources for temple preparation. Remember that Heavenly Father is a loving parent who desires your success. He does not view your anxiety as a failure, but as an opportunity to turn to Him in prayer. As you prepare, you might also find comfort in Power of Prayer as you ask for the peace that passes all understanding. Ultimately, the temple is a place where we can leave the world behind and focus on our relationship with God. By focusing on the Savior and the love He has for you, the anxiety you feel can be transformed into a testimony of the peace that comes from keeping your promises to Him.