1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Nephi's Courage" Children's Songbook pg. 120
3. Read 1 Samuel 17:45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied.
4. Read and discuss "David Slays Goliath" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
The Philistines and the Israelites were at war with each other. The Philistines gathered their armies on one mountain, while King Saul and the men of Israel gathered across the valley on the opposite mountain.
Goliath was a giant Philistine soldier who was over nine feet tall. He wore heavy armor and a brass helmet and carried a large spear. Goliath shouted to the Israelite army to send a man to fight him. He said that if the Israelite killed him, the Philistines would be servants to the Israelites. But if Goliath killed the Israelite, then the Israelites would be servants to the Philistines. King Saul and his army were afraid of Goliath.
Goliath repeated his challenge each night and day for 40 days, but no one was brave enough to fight him.
A man named Jesse had three sons who were part of Saul’s army. But David, Jesse’s youngest son, still lived in Bethlehem with his father. Jesse asked David to take some food to his three brothers and find out how they were doing.
While David was with his brothers, Goliath again shouted his challenge. The Israelites fled when they saw Goliath. David asked the soldiers, “Who is this … Philistine, that he should defy [challenge] the armies of the living God?” (1 Samuel 17:26).
When Saul was told what David had said, he sent for him. David told Saul that he would fight Goliath. But Saul said to David, “Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth” (1 Samuel 17:33).
David told Saul that the Lord had helped him kill a lion and a bear while he tended his father’s sheep. He said the Lord would help him as he fought Goliath. Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with thee” (1 Samuel 17:37).
Then Saul gave David his armor, a helmet, and a sword, but they were too big and heavy for David. He removed the armor and took only his staff, five smooth stones, and a sling as he went to face the mighty Goliath.
When Goliath saw the young boy without armor, he made fun of him and cursed him. David said, “Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel” (1 Samuel 17:45). David told Goliath that with the Lord’s help, he would kill him.
As Goliath came near, David put a stone in his sling, swung the sling around his head, and let the stone go. The stone sank into Goliath’s forehead, and Goliath fell to the ground. David then used Goliath’s sword to kill the giant and cut off his head. When the Philistine army saw that Goliath was dead, they fled, but the men of Israel chased them and defeated them in battle.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Overpowering the Goliaths in Our Lives (Ensign, Jan. 2002)
Comfort and Courage From the Scriptures (Friend, Sept. 2006)
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Family Home Evening Lesson #37: NOAH AND THE ARK
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Follow the Prophet" (verse 3) Children's Songbook pg. 110
3. Read Genesis 6:22 Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.
4. Read and discuss "Building the Ark" from the Gospel Art Picture Kit:
During a time when almost everyone on the earth was wicked, the Lord called Noah to teach people the gospel. Noah told them to repent and be baptized or they would be destroyed by floods, but the people would not listen. Some of them were so angry with Noah that they wanted to kill him, but the Lord protected him.
When the people would not repent, the Lord told Noah that He would “bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh” (Genesis 6:17). To protect Noah and his family from this great flood, the Lord commanded Noah to build an ark. The ark was to have three levels, many rooms, a window on the top, and a door in the side. Noah was to use pitch, or tar, to make the ark watertight, and the ark would be about 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high.
Noah and his sons built the ark according to the Lord’s instructions. The Lord told them to take at least one male and one female “of every living thing of all flesh” (Genesis 6:19). They also had to take food for the animals and for themselves.
When the ark was finished and everything was ready, Noah and his family boarded the ark along with the animals. Noah was now 600 years old, and the flood waters were about to come upon the earth. Noah had obeyed the Lord in preaching the gospel, building the ark, and gathering the animals.
Then read and discuss "Noah and the Ark with Animals" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
Because of the wickedness of the people during Noah’s time, God caused a flood to cover the entire earth with water. Noah and his family were righteous, so God spared their lives. He commanded Noah to build an ark so they would not drown. He also commanded Noah to save the animals so that they would not be destroyed.
Noah built an ark big enough to take at least two of every animal on board. He was commanded, “Of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee by sevens, the male and his female: and of beasts that are not clean by two, the male and his female. Of fowls also of the air by sevens, the male and the female … and of every thing that creepeth upon the earth” (Genesis 7:2–3, 8).
Noah and his family lived on the ark with the animals for over a year. When the earth had recovered from the Flood, Noah brought the animals out of the ark so they could “be fruitful, and multiply upon the earth” (Genesis 8:17).
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Noah's Cubit (Friend, Oct. 1994)
The Prophet Will Tell Us (Friend, Feb. 2001)
Gospel Covenants Bring Promised Blessings (Liahona, Nov. 2005)
2. Sing "Follow the Prophet" (verse 3) Children's Songbook pg. 110
3. Read Genesis 6:22 Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.
4. Read and discuss "Building the Ark" from the Gospel Art Picture Kit:
During a time when almost everyone on the earth was wicked, the Lord called Noah to teach people the gospel. Noah told them to repent and be baptized or they would be destroyed by floods, but the people would not listen. Some of them were so angry with Noah that they wanted to kill him, but the Lord protected him.
When the people would not repent, the Lord told Noah that He would “bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh” (Genesis 6:17). To protect Noah and his family from this great flood, the Lord commanded Noah to build an ark. The ark was to have three levels, many rooms, a window on the top, and a door in the side. Noah was to use pitch, or tar, to make the ark watertight, and the ark would be about 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high.
Noah and his sons built the ark according to the Lord’s instructions. The Lord told them to take at least one male and one female “of every living thing of all flesh” (Genesis 6:19). They also had to take food for the animals and for themselves.
When the ark was finished and everything was ready, Noah and his family boarded the ark along with the animals. Noah was now 600 years old, and the flood waters were about to come upon the earth. Noah had obeyed the Lord in preaching the gospel, building the ark, and gathering the animals.
Then read and discuss "Noah and the Ark with Animals" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
Because of the wickedness of the people during Noah’s time, God caused a flood to cover the entire earth with water. Noah and his family were righteous, so God spared their lives. He commanded Noah to build an ark so they would not drown. He also commanded Noah to save the animals so that they would not be destroyed.
Noah built an ark big enough to take at least two of every animal on board. He was commanded, “Of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee by sevens, the male and his female: and of beasts that are not clean by two, the male and his female. Of fowls also of the air by sevens, the male and the female … and of every thing that creepeth upon the earth” (Genesis 7:2–3, 8).
Noah and his family lived on the ark with the animals for over a year. When the earth had recovered from the Flood, Noah brought the animals out of the ark so they could “be fruitful, and multiply upon the earth” (Genesis 8:17).
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Noah's Cubit (Friend, Oct. 1994)
The Prophet Will Tell Us (Friend, Feb. 2001)
Gospel Covenants Bring Promised Blessings (Liahona, Nov. 2005)
Family Home Evening Lesson #36: ADAM AND EVE
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "All Things Bright and Beautiful" Children's Songbook pg. 231
3. Read Genesis 3:20 And Adam called his wife’s name Eve; because she was the mother of all living.
4. Read and discuss "Adam and Eve" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
Adam and Eve were the first man and woman to live on the earth . God blessed them and told them to have children. Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden, where they could talk with and see Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
There were many trees in the Garden of Eden. God told Adam and Eve they could eat fruit from all the trees except one: the tree of knowledge of good and evil. “Nevertheless,” the Lord said, “thou mayest choose for thyself … ; but, remember that I forbid it, for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” (Moses 3:17)
Satan came to the garden and tempted Eve to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Eve told Satan that the Lord had commanded her and Adam not to eat it or they would be cast out of the garden to die.
Satan lied, telling Eve, “Ye shall not surely die” (Genesis 3:4; Moses 4:10). He also said the fruit would make her wise so she would know good and evil. Eve chose to eat the fruit. Then she gave some of the fruit to Adam, and he also ate. When Adam and Eve heard the voice of the Lord, they hid because they were ashamed that they had disobeyed God.
When God asked Adam and Eve if they had eaten the forbidden fruit, they confessed that they had. God cast Adam and Eve out of the Garden of Eden.
Even though they had to leave the beautiful garden, Adam and Eve believed that God loved them, and they had faith that He would send Jesus Christ to be their Savior.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Adam's Role in Bringing Us Mortality (Ensign, Jan. 2006)
The Creation (Gospel Principles, Chapter 5)
The Fall of Adam and Eve (Gospel Principles, Chapter 6)
2. Sing "All Things Bright and Beautiful" Children's Songbook pg. 231
3. Read Genesis 3:20 And Adam called his wife’s name Eve; because she was the mother of all living.
4. Read and discuss "Adam and Eve" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
Adam and Eve were the first man and woman to live on the earth . God blessed them and told them to have children. Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden, where they could talk with and see Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
There were many trees in the Garden of Eden. God told Adam and Eve they could eat fruit from all the trees except one: the tree of knowledge of good and evil. “Nevertheless,” the Lord said, “thou mayest choose for thyself … ; but, remember that I forbid it, for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” (Moses 3:17)
Satan came to the garden and tempted Eve to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Eve told Satan that the Lord had commanded her and Adam not to eat it or they would be cast out of the garden to die.
Satan lied, telling Eve, “Ye shall not surely die” (Genesis 3:4; Moses 4:10). He also said the fruit would make her wise so she would know good and evil. Eve chose to eat the fruit. Then she gave some of the fruit to Adam, and he also ate. When Adam and Eve heard the voice of the Lord, they hid because they were ashamed that they had disobeyed God.
When God asked Adam and Eve if they had eaten the forbidden fruit, they confessed that they had. God cast Adam and Eve out of the Garden of Eden.
Even though they had to leave the beautiful garden, Adam and Eve believed that God loved them, and they had faith that He would send Jesus Christ to be their Savior.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Adam's Role in Bringing Us Mortality (Ensign, Jan. 2006)
The Creation (Gospel Principles, Chapter 5)
The Fall of Adam and Eve (Gospel Principles, Chapter 6)
Family Home Evening Lesson #35: RESTORATION OF THE MELCHIZEDEK PRIESTHOOD
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "The Priesthood is Restored" Children's Songbook pg. 89)
3. Read D&C 27:12 And also with Peter, and James, and John, whom I have sent unto you, by whom I have ordained you and confirmed you to be apostles, and especial witnesses of my name, and bear the keys of your ministry and of the same things which I revealed unto them.
4. Read and discuss "Melchizedek Priesthood Restoration" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
When Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery received the Aaronic Priesthood from John the Baptist, they were promised they would later receive the Melchizedek Priesthood. “The Melchizedek Priesthood holds the right of presidency, and has power and authority over all the offices in the church” (D&C 107:8).
In June 1829 Joseph was translating the Book of Mormon, and Oliver was writing for him. During this time Joseph and Oliver went into the wilderness area near the Susquehanna River between the towns of Harmony and Colesville, Pennsylvania. Peter, James, and John appeared and conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. Peter, James, and John said they held the keys of the kingdom, and they were to bring the Melchizedek Priesthood to the earth in the dispensation of “the fulness of times,” or the latter days. Because of this great event, we have the Melchizedek Priesthood on the earth today.
Then read and discuss the following from Jeffrey R. Holland:
The priesthood of God, with its keys, its ordinances, its divine origin and ability to bind in heaven what is bound on earth, is as indispensable to the true Church of God as it is unique to it and that without it there would be no Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: The Priesthood in Our Home (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 19)
The Priesthood (Gospel Principles, Chapter 13)
Priesthood Organization (Gospel Principles, Chapter 14)
2. Sing "The Priesthood is Restored" Children's Songbook pg. 89)
3. Read D&C 27:12 And also with Peter, and James, and John, whom I have sent unto you, by whom I have ordained you and confirmed you to be apostles, and especial witnesses of my name, and bear the keys of your ministry and of the same things which I revealed unto them.
4. Read and discuss "Melchizedek Priesthood Restoration" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
When Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery received the Aaronic Priesthood from John the Baptist, they were promised they would later receive the Melchizedek Priesthood. “The Melchizedek Priesthood holds the right of presidency, and has power and authority over all the offices in the church” (D&C 107:8).
In June 1829 Joseph was translating the Book of Mormon, and Oliver was writing for him. During this time Joseph and Oliver went into the wilderness area near the Susquehanna River between the towns of Harmony and Colesville, Pennsylvania. Peter, James, and John appeared and conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. Peter, James, and John said they held the keys of the kingdom, and they were to bring the Melchizedek Priesthood to the earth in the dispensation of “the fulness of times,” or the latter days. Because of this great event, we have the Melchizedek Priesthood on the earth today.
Then read and discuss the following from Jeffrey R. Holland:
The priesthood of God, with its keys, its ordinances, its divine origin and ability to bind in heaven what is bound on earth, is as indispensable to the true Church of God as it is unique to it and that without it there would be no Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: The Priesthood in Our Home (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 19)
The Priesthood (Gospel Principles, Chapter 13)
Priesthood Organization (Gospel Principles, Chapter 14)
Family Home Evening Lesson #34: RESTORATION OF THE AARONIC PRIESTHOOD
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing: "The Priesthood is Restored" Children's Songbook, pg. 89
3. Read D&C 13:1 Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angles, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; and this shall never be taken again from the earth, until the sons of Levi do offer again an offering unto the Lord in righteousness.
4. Read and discuss "John the Baptist Conferring the Aaronic Priesthood" from the Gospel Art Picture Kit:
Joseph Smith translated the gold plates into English, and Oliver Cowdery wrote it down. While translating, they learned about baptism for the remission of sins. On 15 May 1829 they went into the woods to pray, to ask Heavenly Father about baptism.
As they prayed, an angel from heaven appeared in a cloud of light. He laid his hands on Joseph and Oliver and ordained them, saying, “Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah, I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; and this shall never be taken again from the earth until the sons of Levi do offer again an offering unto the Lord in righteousness” (D&C 13).
The angel said the Aaronic Priesthood had the power to baptize but not to give the gift of the Holy Ghost. The angel commanded Joseph and Oliver to be baptized. He told Joseph to baptize Oliver and then Oliver to baptize Joseph.
They baptized each other in the Susquehanna River near Harmony, Pennsylvania. Then, following the angel’s instructions, Joseph laid his hands upon Oliver’s head and ordained Oliver to the Aaronic Priesthood. Oliver then ordained Joseph in the same way.
The angel said his name was John the Baptist. He told them he was acting under the direction of Peter, James, and John, who held the keys of the Melchizedek Priesthood. Joseph and Oliver, he said, would receive the Melchizedek Priesthood in due time.
After Joseph and Oliver were baptized, they “experienced great and glorious blessings from … Heavenly Father” (Joseph Smith—History 1:73).
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Our Most Distinguishing Feature (Ensign, May 2005)
A Priesthood Ordination (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 30)
The Priesthood (Gospel Principles, Chapter 13)
2. Sing: "The Priesthood is Restored" Children's Songbook, pg. 89
3. Read D&C 13:1 Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angles, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; and this shall never be taken again from the earth, until the sons of Levi do offer again an offering unto the Lord in righteousness.
4. Read and discuss "John the Baptist Conferring the Aaronic Priesthood" from the Gospel Art Picture Kit:
Joseph Smith translated the gold plates into English, and Oliver Cowdery wrote it down. While translating, they learned about baptism for the remission of sins. On 15 May 1829 they went into the woods to pray, to ask Heavenly Father about baptism.
As they prayed, an angel from heaven appeared in a cloud of light. He laid his hands on Joseph and Oliver and ordained them, saying, “Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah, I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; and this shall never be taken again from the earth until the sons of Levi do offer again an offering unto the Lord in righteousness” (D&C 13).
The angel said the Aaronic Priesthood had the power to baptize but not to give the gift of the Holy Ghost. The angel commanded Joseph and Oliver to be baptized. He told Joseph to baptize Oliver and then Oliver to baptize Joseph.
They baptized each other in the Susquehanna River near Harmony, Pennsylvania. Then, following the angel’s instructions, Joseph laid his hands upon Oliver’s head and ordained Oliver to the Aaronic Priesthood. Oliver then ordained Joseph in the same way.
The angel said his name was John the Baptist. He told them he was acting under the direction of Peter, James, and John, who held the keys of the Melchizedek Priesthood. Joseph and Oliver, he said, would receive the Melchizedek Priesthood in due time.
After Joseph and Oliver were baptized, they “experienced great and glorious blessings from … Heavenly Father” (Joseph Smith—History 1:73).
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Our Most Distinguishing Feature (Ensign, May 2005)
A Priesthood Ordination (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 30)
The Priesthood (Gospel Principles, Chapter 13)
Family Home Evening Lesson #33: THE FIRST VISION
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Joseph Smith's First Prayer" Hymns pg. 26
3. Read Joseph Smith History 1:14-17 So, in accordance with this, my determination to ask of God, I retired to the woods to make the attempt. It was on the morning of a beautiful, clear day, early in the spring of eighteen hundred and twenty. It was the first time in my life that I had made such an attempt, for amidst all my anxieties I had never as yet made the attempt to pray vocally.
After I had retired to the place where I had previously designed to go, having looked around me, and finding myself alone, I kneeled down and began to offer up the desires of my heart to God. I had scarcely done so, when immediately I was seized upon by some power which entirely overcame me, and had such an astonishing influence over me as to bind my tongue so that I could not speak. Thick darkness gathered around me, and it seemed to me for a time as if I were doomed to sudden destruction.
But, exerting all my powers to call upon God to deliver me out of the power of this enemy which had seized upon me, and at the very moment when I was ready to sink into despair and abandon myself to destruction—not to an imaginary ruin, but to the power of some actual being from the unseen world, who had such marvelous power as I had never before felt in any being—just at this moment of great alarm, I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me.
It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!
4. Read and discuss the "The First Vision" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
On a beautiful spring morning in 1820, Joseph Smith went into the woods near his home to pray. He did not know which church to join and decided to ask Heavenly Father. Joseph looked around to make sure he was alone, then knelt and began to pray. He was immediately overcome by some evil power. Thick darkness surrounded him, and he could not speak. Joseph thought he was going to be destroyed, but using all the energy he had, he asked God to deliver him from this unseen enemy. Just as Joseph was about to give up, he saw a pillar of light over his head, and he was released from the evil force that had held him. The light came down and rested on him, and Joseph saw two personages whose brightness and glory were beyond description. They were standing in the air above Joseph. One called Joseph by name, pointed to the other, and said, “This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!” These personages were Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Joseph asked Heavenly Father and Jesus which church was right and which he should join. Jesus told Joseph that he should not join any of the churches, because they were all wrong. He said, “They draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me."
Jesus again told Joseph not to join any of the churches. He also told him many other things during the vision. After the vision Joseph was lying on his back looking up into heaven. As the bright light left, he found he was too weak to walk. Joseph’s strength gradually returned and he went home.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resoureces: Joseph Smith's First Vision (Friend, April 1995)
The Truth Is on the Earth Once More (New Era, Jan. 2009)
The Marvelous Foundation of Our Faith (Liahona, Nov. 2002)
2. Sing "Joseph Smith's First Prayer" Hymns pg. 26
3. Read Joseph Smith History 1:14-17 So, in accordance with this, my determination to ask of God, I retired to the woods to make the attempt. It was on the morning of a beautiful, clear day, early in the spring of eighteen hundred and twenty. It was the first time in my life that I had made such an attempt, for amidst all my anxieties I had never as yet made the attempt to pray vocally.
After I had retired to the place where I had previously designed to go, having looked around me, and finding myself alone, I kneeled down and began to offer up the desires of my heart to God. I had scarcely done so, when immediately I was seized upon by some power which entirely overcame me, and had such an astonishing influence over me as to bind my tongue so that I could not speak. Thick darkness gathered around me, and it seemed to me for a time as if I were doomed to sudden destruction.
But, exerting all my powers to call upon God to deliver me out of the power of this enemy which had seized upon me, and at the very moment when I was ready to sink into despair and abandon myself to destruction—not to an imaginary ruin, but to the power of some actual being from the unseen world, who had such marvelous power as I had never before felt in any being—just at this moment of great alarm, I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me.
It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!
4. Read and discuss the "The First Vision" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
On a beautiful spring morning in 1820, Joseph Smith went into the woods near his home to pray. He did not know which church to join and decided to ask Heavenly Father. Joseph looked around to make sure he was alone, then knelt and began to pray. He was immediately overcome by some evil power. Thick darkness surrounded him, and he could not speak. Joseph thought he was going to be destroyed, but using all the energy he had, he asked God to deliver him from this unseen enemy. Just as Joseph was about to give up, he saw a pillar of light over his head, and he was released from the evil force that had held him. The light came down and rested on him, and Joseph saw two personages whose brightness and glory were beyond description. They were standing in the air above Joseph. One called Joseph by name, pointed to the other, and said, “This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!” These personages were Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Joseph asked Heavenly Father and Jesus which church was right and which he should join. Jesus told Joseph that he should not join any of the churches, because they were all wrong. He said, “They draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me."
Jesus again told Joseph not to join any of the churches. He also told him many other things during the vision. After the vision Joseph was lying on his back looking up into heaven. As the bright light left, he found he was too weak to walk. Joseph’s strength gradually returned and he went home.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resoureces: Joseph Smith's First Vision (Friend, April 1995)
The Truth Is on the Earth Once More (New Era, Jan. 2009)
The Marvelous Foundation of Our Faith (Liahona, Nov. 2002)
Family Home Evening Lesson #32: TEMPLE BLESSINGS UNITE FAMILIES
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Families Can Be Together Forever" Children's Songbook pg. 188
3. Read Matthew 16:19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
4. Read "Grandma's Notebook" from the Feb. 2004 Friend:
“Families can be together forever through Heavenly Father’s plan,” Jessica and her cousins sang at their grandmother’s funeral. It was a sad day for Jessica because she would miss Grandma Tolley. She enjoyed the time they had spent together working in the garden, going for walks, and having weekend sleepovers. But it was also a joyous day because Jessica knew that Grandma had longed to be reunited with Grandpa, who had passed away 17 years before.
Later that day, Jessica and her mother drove to the cemetery to visit the grave site. “The roses and carnations look so beautiful,” Mom said.
“They smell terrific.” Jessica sniffed a pink rose.
“I’m sure Grandma was pleased with all the family and friends who came today. She enjoyed helping others and loved all people. The beautiful flowers show they loved her, too,” Mom said.
Jessica thought for a moment. Then she said, “At the funeral, Aunt Diane said that ‘Families Can Be Together Forever’ was Grandma’s favorite song. Why was a Primary song her favorite?”
Mom smiled. “I’m going to let Grandma answer that question for you.”
“How can Grandma answer my question when she isn’t here anymore?” Jessica asked.
“We’ll stop by her house on the way home, and I’ll show you,” Mom answered.
As Jessica walked into Grandma’s house, it was dark and quiet. Quickly she turned on a light. Everything was still in its usual place. There were pictures of Jessica and her cousins hanging on the walls. A cherished afghan was folded neatly over the back of the couch.Mom opened a small closet door. After a bit of searching, she pulled out a pile of worn notebooks.
“What are those?” Jessica asked.“Grandma wrote in these notebooks throughout her life. They were her journals. There is one here that will answer your question.” Mom glanced through a few of the notebooks before she located the one she wanted. She handed it to Jessica. “As you read what Grandma wrote, you’ll find out why ‘Families Can Be Together Forever’ was her favorite song.”
The next day was Saturday, and Jessica got right to work doing her chores and practicing her piano lessons. She even skipped watching cartoons so she could have more time for Grandma’s journal. Opening to the first page, she began to read.
March 14, 1941
It was a beautiful spring day as James and I drove to the county courthouse to be married. Many of our family and friends were there to witness this joyous occasion. James looked so handsome in his new suit. I am lucky to have married him. He is a hard worker and will be a good husband and father. The judge gave us many useful words of wisdom and counsel.
I always thought my wedding day would be the happiest day of my life—but I was wrong. As the judge finished the ceremony, he said, “I now pronounce you husband and wife until death do you part.” That statement will be etched in my heart until I am sealed to James in the holy temple of the Lord. I pray for the day when we will know we can be together forever.
Jessica was surprised. She had always thought her grandma and grandpa had been married in the temple. For as long as Jessica could remember, Grandma Tolley had done temple work each week with her friends. Temple work had been very important to her, and she had talked about it often.
All afternoon, Jessica continued to read. She was amazed at how hard Grandma had worked each day. She hung the laundry out on the line to dry. She carried buckets of coal down to the basement to burn in the furnace. She sewed clothes, planted and cared for a large garden, made her own bread, spent time with her daughters, and still did things to help other people. Jessica also enjoyed learning about what her mother was like as a little girl.
June 7, 1955
This afternoon I watched the girls play outside. They were having so much fun making necklaces out of dandelions. They laughed and giggled at the silly things each would say and do. As I quietly watched, Elizabeth noticed me and ran over to give me a big, yellow dandelion. “I love you, Mom,” she said.
In my heart I thanked Heavenly Father for such precious children. They are like the sunshine that lights my day. I continue to pray and work toward the blessing of being sealed as a family in the temple. Until that day arrives, I will put my trust and faith in the Lord.
Jessica was so absorbed in the journal that she didn’t hear her mother come into the room. “Looks like you’ve been doing some reading.”
“Yes, I have,” Jessica said. “I didn’t know that Grandma wasn’t married in the temple. I think it would be hard to know that after this life you would no longer be together as a family.”
“It was hard for Grandma,” Mom said.
“But that doesn’t explain why ‘Families Can Be Together Forever’ was her favorite song,” Jessica said.“Keep reading.” Mom smiled as she left the room.
Jessica read until late in the afternoon. As she neared the end of the notebook, she was a little discouraged at not finding the answer she had been looking for. When she was about to stop for the day, Jessica decided to read one more entry.
April 29, 1957
Today I knelt across from James in the Lord’s holy temple. I have prayed for this moment for many years. I am thankful to know that we can be eternal companions. Words cannot express even the smallest portion of the joy and love I felt from Heavenly Father.
When they brought in our daughters all dressed in white, tears fell freely from my eyes. Kneeling together and being sealed as a family was the most important moment of my life. I am grateful for the knowledge that if I live the teachings of the gospel, I can have these precious daughters throughout eternity.“Have you discovered the answer?” Mom asked that evening at dinner.
“I think so,” Jessica replied. “Grandma loved her family very much. But because she was not married in the temple, her family wouldn’t always be together. Grandma prayed and worked toward the day they could go to the temple. The song must have reminded her of the day she was sealed to her family.”
“That’s right.”
“Did you sing that song when you were in Primary?” Jessica asked.“No, ‘Families Can Be Together Forever’ hadn’t been written yet when I was in Primary.
Several years after Grandpa passed away, Grandma heard the Primary children sing it in sacrament meeting. She felt the Spirit so strongly that she was sure Heavenly Father was speaking right to her. Grandma loved the words because they gave her comfort in knowing that her family could be together forever.”That night as Jessica knelt in prayer, she thanked Heavenly Father for a wonderful grandma. She also promised to live worthily to go to the temple. She wanted the blessing of an eternal family and the opportunity to be with Grandma Tolley again someday.5.
Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: The Temple: I'm Going There Someday (Friend, Aug. 2009)
They Twain Shall Be One (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 33)
Eternal Marriage (Gospel Principles, Chapter 38)
2. Sing "Families Can Be Together Forever" Children's Songbook pg. 188
3. Read Matthew 16:19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
4. Read "Grandma's Notebook" from the Feb. 2004 Friend:
“Families can be together forever through Heavenly Father’s plan,” Jessica and her cousins sang at their grandmother’s funeral. It was a sad day for Jessica because she would miss Grandma Tolley. She enjoyed the time they had spent together working in the garden, going for walks, and having weekend sleepovers. But it was also a joyous day because Jessica knew that Grandma had longed to be reunited with Grandpa, who had passed away 17 years before.
Later that day, Jessica and her mother drove to the cemetery to visit the grave site. “The roses and carnations look so beautiful,” Mom said.
“They smell terrific.” Jessica sniffed a pink rose.
“I’m sure Grandma was pleased with all the family and friends who came today. She enjoyed helping others and loved all people. The beautiful flowers show they loved her, too,” Mom said.
Jessica thought for a moment. Then she said, “At the funeral, Aunt Diane said that ‘Families Can Be Together Forever’ was Grandma’s favorite song. Why was a Primary song her favorite?”
Mom smiled. “I’m going to let Grandma answer that question for you.”
“How can Grandma answer my question when she isn’t here anymore?” Jessica asked.
“We’ll stop by her house on the way home, and I’ll show you,” Mom answered.
As Jessica walked into Grandma’s house, it was dark and quiet. Quickly she turned on a light. Everything was still in its usual place. There were pictures of Jessica and her cousins hanging on the walls. A cherished afghan was folded neatly over the back of the couch.Mom opened a small closet door. After a bit of searching, she pulled out a pile of worn notebooks.
“What are those?” Jessica asked.“Grandma wrote in these notebooks throughout her life. They were her journals. There is one here that will answer your question.” Mom glanced through a few of the notebooks before she located the one she wanted. She handed it to Jessica. “As you read what Grandma wrote, you’ll find out why ‘Families Can Be Together Forever’ was her favorite song.”
The next day was Saturday, and Jessica got right to work doing her chores and practicing her piano lessons. She even skipped watching cartoons so she could have more time for Grandma’s journal. Opening to the first page, she began to read.
March 14, 1941
It was a beautiful spring day as James and I drove to the county courthouse to be married. Many of our family and friends were there to witness this joyous occasion. James looked so handsome in his new suit. I am lucky to have married him. He is a hard worker and will be a good husband and father. The judge gave us many useful words of wisdom and counsel.
I always thought my wedding day would be the happiest day of my life—but I was wrong. As the judge finished the ceremony, he said, “I now pronounce you husband and wife until death do you part.” That statement will be etched in my heart until I am sealed to James in the holy temple of the Lord. I pray for the day when we will know we can be together forever.
Jessica was surprised. She had always thought her grandma and grandpa had been married in the temple. For as long as Jessica could remember, Grandma Tolley had done temple work each week with her friends. Temple work had been very important to her, and she had talked about it often.
All afternoon, Jessica continued to read. She was amazed at how hard Grandma had worked each day. She hung the laundry out on the line to dry. She carried buckets of coal down to the basement to burn in the furnace. She sewed clothes, planted and cared for a large garden, made her own bread, spent time with her daughters, and still did things to help other people. Jessica also enjoyed learning about what her mother was like as a little girl.
June 7, 1955
This afternoon I watched the girls play outside. They were having so much fun making necklaces out of dandelions. They laughed and giggled at the silly things each would say and do. As I quietly watched, Elizabeth noticed me and ran over to give me a big, yellow dandelion. “I love you, Mom,” she said.
In my heart I thanked Heavenly Father for such precious children. They are like the sunshine that lights my day. I continue to pray and work toward the blessing of being sealed as a family in the temple. Until that day arrives, I will put my trust and faith in the Lord.
Jessica was so absorbed in the journal that she didn’t hear her mother come into the room. “Looks like you’ve been doing some reading.”
“Yes, I have,” Jessica said. “I didn’t know that Grandma wasn’t married in the temple. I think it would be hard to know that after this life you would no longer be together as a family.”
“It was hard for Grandma,” Mom said.
“But that doesn’t explain why ‘Families Can Be Together Forever’ was her favorite song,” Jessica said.“Keep reading.” Mom smiled as she left the room.
Jessica read until late in the afternoon. As she neared the end of the notebook, she was a little discouraged at not finding the answer she had been looking for. When she was about to stop for the day, Jessica decided to read one more entry.
April 29, 1957
Today I knelt across from James in the Lord’s holy temple. I have prayed for this moment for many years. I am thankful to know that we can be eternal companions. Words cannot express even the smallest portion of the joy and love I felt from Heavenly Father.
When they brought in our daughters all dressed in white, tears fell freely from my eyes. Kneeling together and being sealed as a family was the most important moment of my life. I am grateful for the knowledge that if I live the teachings of the gospel, I can have these precious daughters throughout eternity.“Have you discovered the answer?” Mom asked that evening at dinner.
“I think so,” Jessica replied. “Grandma loved her family very much. But because she was not married in the temple, her family wouldn’t always be together. Grandma prayed and worked toward the day they could go to the temple. The song must have reminded her of the day she was sealed to her family.”
“That’s right.”
“Did you sing that song when you were in Primary?” Jessica asked.“No, ‘Families Can Be Together Forever’ hadn’t been written yet when I was in Primary.
Several years after Grandpa passed away, Grandma heard the Primary children sing it in sacrament meeting. She felt the Spirit so strongly that she was sure Heavenly Father was speaking right to her. Grandma loved the words because they gave her comfort in knowing that her family could be together forever.”That night as Jessica knelt in prayer, she thanked Heavenly Father for a wonderful grandma. She also promised to live worthily to go to the temple. She wanted the blessing of an eternal family and the opportunity to be with Grandma Tolley again someday.5.
Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: The Temple: I'm Going There Someday (Friend, Aug. 2009)
They Twain Shall Be One (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 33)
Eternal Marriage (Gospel Principles, Chapter 38)
Friday, July 17, 2009
Family Home Evening Lesson #31: YOUNG WOMEN VALUES--INTEGRITY
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "True to the Faith" Hymns pg. 254
3. Read Job 27:5 God forbid that I should justify you: till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I will have the moral courage to make my actions consistent with my knowledge of right and wrong.
Then read and discuss the following from David A. Bednar:
You and I must strive to become people of integrity and to be honest with God, honest with ourselves, and honest with other people. Integrity and honesty with God result from knowing and understanding who He is and our relationship to and kinship with Him as our Eternal Father.
Integrity and honesty with ourselves result from knowing and understanding who we are as sons and daughters of God. And integrity and honesty with other people result from knowing and understanding they are sons and daughters of the Eternal Father and are our brothers and sisters. All unprincipled and dishonest thoughts and actions are a betrayal of God, a betrayal of self, and a betrayal of other people.
Becoming people of integrity and honesty does not occur quickly or all at once, nor is it merely a matter of greater personal discipline. It is a change of disposition, a change of heart. And this gradual change of heart is one that the Lord accomplishes within us, through the power of His Spirit, in a line-upon-line fashion. For example, in Philip. 2:12, Paul encourages the Saints to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” But how are we to do that? Note the answer that follows in verse 13: “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” That is, we give ourselves to the Lord and choose to be changed. He is working on us and in us.
Remember that becoming people of integrity and honesty is not simply a matter of more personal determination, more grit, and more willpower; rather, it is accomplished through the enabling power of the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Personal Integrity (Ensign, May 1990)
Be Honest (New Era, Oct. 2005)
Honesty (For the Strength of Youth)
2. Sing "True to the Faith" Hymns pg. 254
3. Read Job 27:5 God forbid that I should justify you: till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I will have the moral courage to make my actions consistent with my knowledge of right and wrong.
Then read and discuss the following from David A. Bednar:
You and I must strive to become people of integrity and to be honest with God, honest with ourselves, and honest with other people. Integrity and honesty with God result from knowing and understanding who He is and our relationship to and kinship with Him as our Eternal Father.
Integrity and honesty with ourselves result from knowing and understanding who we are as sons and daughters of God. And integrity and honesty with other people result from knowing and understanding they are sons and daughters of the Eternal Father and are our brothers and sisters. All unprincipled and dishonest thoughts and actions are a betrayal of God, a betrayal of self, and a betrayal of other people.
Becoming people of integrity and honesty does not occur quickly or all at once, nor is it merely a matter of greater personal discipline. It is a change of disposition, a change of heart. And this gradual change of heart is one that the Lord accomplishes within us, through the power of His Spirit, in a line-upon-line fashion. For example, in Philip. 2:12, Paul encourages the Saints to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” But how are we to do that? Note the answer that follows in verse 13: “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” That is, we give ourselves to the Lord and choose to be changed. He is working on us and in us.
Remember that becoming people of integrity and honesty is not simply a matter of more personal determination, more grit, and more willpower; rather, it is accomplished through the enabling power of the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Personal Integrity (Ensign, May 1990)
Be Honest (New Era, Oct. 2005)
Honesty (For the Strength of Youth)
Family Home Evening Lesson #30: YOUNG WOMEN VALUES--GOOD WORKS
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus" Children's Songbook pg. 78
3. Read 3 Nephi 12:16 Therefore let your light so shine before this people, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I will help others and build the kingdom through righteous service.
Then read and discuss the following from Gordon B. Hinckley:
I believe in the obligation and blessing of service. I speak of that service which is given without expectation of monetary reward. Most of the troubles of the world come because of human greed. What a therapeutic and wonderful thing it is for a man or woman to set aside all consideration of personal gain and reach out with strength and energy and purpose to help the unfortunate, to improve the community, to clean up the environment and beautify our surroundings. How much greater would be the suffering of the homeless and the hungry in our own communities without the service of hundreds of volunteers who give of their time and substance to assist them.
I talked one day with a successful businessman who gets up at five o’clock five days a week to teach seminary. He said, “It’s the best thing I do.” No man can live fully and happily who lives only unto himself. It was King Benjamin who said, “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17).
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Service to Others (For the Strength of Youth)
Gospel Art Picture Kit: Serving One Another
Service (Gospel Principles, Chapter 28)
2. Sing "I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus" Children's Songbook pg. 78
3. Read 3 Nephi 12:16 Therefore let your light so shine before this people, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I will help others and build the kingdom through righteous service.
Then read and discuss the following from Gordon B. Hinckley:
I believe in the obligation and blessing of service. I speak of that service which is given without expectation of monetary reward. Most of the troubles of the world come because of human greed. What a therapeutic and wonderful thing it is for a man or woman to set aside all consideration of personal gain and reach out with strength and energy and purpose to help the unfortunate, to improve the community, to clean up the environment and beautify our surroundings. How much greater would be the suffering of the homeless and the hungry in our own communities without the service of hundreds of volunteers who give of their time and substance to assist them.
I talked one day with a successful businessman who gets up at five o’clock five days a week to teach seminary. He said, “It’s the best thing I do.” No man can live fully and happily who lives only unto himself. It was King Benjamin who said, “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17).
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Service to Others (For the Strength of Youth)
Gospel Art Picture Kit: Serving One Another
Service (Gospel Principles, Chapter 28)
Family Home Evening Lesson #29: YOUNG WOMEN VALUES--CHOICE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Choose the Right" Hymns pg. 239
3. Read Joshua 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I will choose good over evil and will accept responsibility for my decisions.
Then read and discuss the following from L. Tom Perry:
The Book of Mormon is filled with accounts of what happens to people who make both right and wrong choices. During Alma’s first year in the judgment seat, a large and strong man by the name of Nehor was brought before him to be judged. According to the scriptures, Nehor “had gone about among the people, preaching to them that which he termed to be the word of God, bearing down against the church; declaring unto the people that every priest and teacher ought to become popular; and they ought not to labor with their hands, but that they ought to be supported by the people.
“And he also testified unto the people that all mankind should be saved at the last day, and that they need not fear nor tremble, but that they might lift up their heads and rejoice; for the Lord had created all men, and had also redeemed all men; and, in the end, all men should have eternal life” (Alma 1:3–4).
Nehor’s words appealed to many people. But his doctrine, while popular, was incorrect. As we face the many decisions in life, the easy and popular messages of the world will not usually be the right ones to choose. It will take courage to choose the right.
Another example comes from the land of Ammonihah where Amulek and Alma also found a people following false teachings. Amulek attempted to convert them to the true and living gospel. Zeezrom, a man who was expert in the devices of the devil, challenged the teachings of Amulek. Zeezrom asked Amulek, “Shall he [Christ] save his people in their sins?” Amulek answered and said, “I say unto you he shall not, for it is impossible for him to deny his word” (Alma 11:34).
Then Zeezrom taunted Amulek, but Amulek’s response was marvelous as he explained the plan of redemption: “And I say unto you again that he cannot save them in their sins; for I cannot deny his word, and he hath said that no unclean thing can inherit the kingdom of heaven; therefore, how can ye be saved, except ye inherit the kingdom of heaven? Therefore, ye cannot be saved in your sins.
“And he shall come into the world to redeem his people; and he shall take upon him the transgressions of those who believe on his name; and these are they that shall have eternal life, and salvation cometh to none else.
“Therefore the wicked remain as though there had been no redemption made, except it be the loosing of the bands of death; for behold, the day cometh that all shall rise from the dead and stand before God, and be judged according to their works” (Alma 11:37, 40–41). Later, after considerable tribulation and a blessing of healing, Zeezrom joined the Church.
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught us, “Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God.”
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: We Can Choose (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 8)
Agency and Accountability (For the Strength of Youth)
Freedom to Choose (Gospel Principles, Chapter 4)
2. Sing "Choose the Right" Hymns pg. 239
3. Read Joshua 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I will choose good over evil and will accept responsibility for my decisions.
Then read and discuss the following from L. Tom Perry:
The Book of Mormon is filled with accounts of what happens to people who make both right and wrong choices. During Alma’s first year in the judgment seat, a large and strong man by the name of Nehor was brought before him to be judged. According to the scriptures, Nehor “had gone about among the people, preaching to them that which he termed to be the word of God, bearing down against the church; declaring unto the people that every priest and teacher ought to become popular; and they ought not to labor with their hands, but that they ought to be supported by the people.
“And he also testified unto the people that all mankind should be saved at the last day, and that they need not fear nor tremble, but that they might lift up their heads and rejoice; for the Lord had created all men, and had also redeemed all men; and, in the end, all men should have eternal life” (Alma 1:3–4).
Nehor’s words appealed to many people. But his doctrine, while popular, was incorrect. As we face the many decisions in life, the easy and popular messages of the world will not usually be the right ones to choose. It will take courage to choose the right.
Another example comes from the land of Ammonihah where Amulek and Alma also found a people following false teachings. Amulek attempted to convert them to the true and living gospel. Zeezrom, a man who was expert in the devices of the devil, challenged the teachings of Amulek. Zeezrom asked Amulek, “Shall he [Christ] save his people in their sins?” Amulek answered and said, “I say unto you he shall not, for it is impossible for him to deny his word” (Alma 11:34).
Then Zeezrom taunted Amulek, but Amulek’s response was marvelous as he explained the plan of redemption: “And I say unto you again that he cannot save them in their sins; for I cannot deny his word, and he hath said that no unclean thing can inherit the kingdom of heaven; therefore, how can ye be saved, except ye inherit the kingdom of heaven? Therefore, ye cannot be saved in your sins.
“And he shall come into the world to redeem his people; and he shall take upon him the transgressions of those who believe on his name; and these are they that shall have eternal life, and salvation cometh to none else.
“Therefore the wicked remain as though there had been no redemption made, except it be the loosing of the bands of death; for behold, the day cometh that all shall rise from the dead and stand before God, and be judged according to their works” (Alma 11:37, 40–41). Later, after considerable tribulation and a blessing of healing, Zeezrom joined the Church.
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught us, “Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God.”
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: We Can Choose (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 8)
Agency and Accountability (For the Strength of Youth)
Freedom to Choose (Gospel Principles, Chapter 4)
Family Home Evening Lesson #28: YOUNG WOMEN VALUES--KNOWLEDGE
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "As I Search the Holy Scriptures" Hymns pg. 277
3. Read D&C 88:118 And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I will continually seek opportunities for learning and growth.
Then read and discuss the following from Henry B. Eyring:
Remember these three beliefs: First, there is no limit to your potential learning as a child of God. Second, childlike humility is the key to teachableness. And third, living a clean life will allow the Holy Ghost to confirm and expand your learning.
Then read and discuss the following from Richard G. Scott:
You can learn vitally important things by what you hear and see and especially by what you feel, as prompted by the Holy Ghost. Most individuals limit their learning primarily to what they hear or what they read. Be wise. Develop the skill of learning by what you see and particularly by what the Holy Ghost prompts you to feel. Consciously seek to learn by what you see and feel, and your capacity to do so will expand through consistent practice. Ask in faith for such help. Live to be worthy of it. Seek to recognize it. Write down in a secure place the important things you learn from the Spirit.
You will find that as you write down precious impressions, often more will come. Also, the knowledge you gain will be available throughout your life. Always, day or night, wherever you are, whatever you are doing, seek to recognize and respond to the direction of the Spirit. Express gratitude for the help received and obey it. This practice will reinforce your capacity to learn by the Spirit. It will permit the Lord to guide your life and to enrich the use of every other capacity latent in your being.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: The Quest for Spiritual Knowledge (New Era, Jan. 2007)
New Era, April 2009
Education (For the Strength of Youth)
Gospel Art Picture Kit: Search the Scriptures
2. Sing "As I Search the Holy Scriptures" Hymns pg. 277
3. Read D&C 88:118 And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I will continually seek opportunities for learning and growth.
Then read and discuss the following from Henry B. Eyring:
Remember these three beliefs: First, there is no limit to your potential learning as a child of God. Second, childlike humility is the key to teachableness. And third, living a clean life will allow the Holy Ghost to confirm and expand your learning.
Then read and discuss the following from Richard G. Scott:
You can learn vitally important things by what you hear and see and especially by what you feel, as prompted by the Holy Ghost. Most individuals limit their learning primarily to what they hear or what they read. Be wise. Develop the skill of learning by what you see and particularly by what the Holy Ghost prompts you to feel. Consciously seek to learn by what you see and feel, and your capacity to do so will expand through consistent practice. Ask in faith for such help. Live to be worthy of it. Seek to recognize it. Write down in a secure place the important things you learn from the Spirit.
You will find that as you write down precious impressions, often more will come. Also, the knowledge you gain will be available throughout your life. Always, day or night, wherever you are, whatever you are doing, seek to recognize and respond to the direction of the Spirit. Express gratitude for the help received and obey it. This practice will reinforce your capacity to learn by the Spirit. It will permit the Lord to guide your life and to enrich the use of every other capacity latent in your being.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: The Quest for Spiritual Knowledge (New Era, Jan. 2007)
New Era, April 2009
Education (For the Strength of Youth)
Gospel Art Picture Kit: Search the Scriptures
Family Home Evening Lesson #27: YOUNG WOMEN VALUES--INDIVIDUAL WORTH
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Every Star is Different" Children's Songbook pg. 142
3. Read D&C 18:10 Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I am of infinite worth with my own divine mission, which I will strive to fulfill.
Then read and discuss the following from the September 1989 Liahona:
No matter what our circumstances, or appearance, or social status, our Heavenly Father loves us and wants us to recognize our self-worth. Furthermore, the Lord values his children for reasons far different from the world’s, for he “seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” (1 Sam. 16:7.)
The world would like us to believe that the requirements for self-worth are beauty, youth, wealth, and success. But as Patricia Holland, former counselor in the Young Women general presidency, counseled women college students “[we are] becoming so concerned about having perfect figures, or straight A’s, or professional status, or even absolute motherly success that we are being torn from our true selves. We often worry so much about pleasing and performing for others that we lose our own uniqueness, that full and relaxed acceptance of ourselves as a person of worth and individuality.”
When we struggle with self-worth, we need to remember the story of the widow who offered her mite in the temple. Jesus did not call attention to the wealthy, who made a great display of presenting their offerings; instead, he used her as an example of a beautiful woman of great worth who was willing to share what she had with others. The widow probably was a woman few people knew or noticed. She probably did not wear the latest fashions or associate with the rich and powerful members of her community. We know her worldly possessions were few. But the Savior was not concerned about these things. He did not look on her outward appearance. He looked on her heart.
Like this widow, each of us has a contribution to make to the Lord’s work and to mankind. We all need to learn to recognize our worth to the Lord. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “We are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ.” (Rom. 8:16–17.) That is the foundation upon which we should base our individual “worth”—not on what the world might think of us.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: The Sanctity of Womanhood (New Era, Nov. 2008)
2. Sing "Every Star is Different" Children's Songbook pg. 142
3. Read D&C 18:10 Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I am of infinite worth with my own divine mission, which I will strive to fulfill.
Then read and discuss the following from the September 1989 Liahona:
No matter what our circumstances, or appearance, or social status, our Heavenly Father loves us and wants us to recognize our self-worth. Furthermore, the Lord values his children for reasons far different from the world’s, for he “seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” (1 Sam. 16:7.)
The world would like us to believe that the requirements for self-worth are beauty, youth, wealth, and success. But as Patricia Holland, former counselor in the Young Women general presidency, counseled women college students “[we are] becoming so concerned about having perfect figures, or straight A’s, or professional status, or even absolute motherly success that we are being torn from our true selves. We often worry so much about pleasing and performing for others that we lose our own uniqueness, that full and relaxed acceptance of ourselves as a person of worth and individuality.”
When we struggle with self-worth, we need to remember the story of the widow who offered her mite in the temple. Jesus did not call attention to the wealthy, who made a great display of presenting their offerings; instead, he used her as an example of a beautiful woman of great worth who was willing to share what she had with others. The widow probably was a woman few people knew or noticed. She probably did not wear the latest fashions or associate with the rich and powerful members of her community. We know her worldly possessions were few. But the Savior was not concerned about these things. He did not look on her outward appearance. He looked on her heart.
Like this widow, each of us has a contribution to make to the Lord’s work and to mankind. We all need to learn to recognize our worth to the Lord. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “We are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ.” (Rom. 8:16–17.) That is the foundation upon which we should base our individual “worth”—not on what the world might think of us.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: The Sanctity of Womanhood (New Era, Nov. 2008)
Family Home Evening Lesson #26: YOUNG WOMEN VALUES--DIVINE NATURE
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "I Am a Child of God" Children's Songbook pg. 2
3. Read 2 Peter 1: 4-7 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I have inherited divine qualities, which I will strive to develop.
Then read and discuss the following from James E. Faust:
So who do you think you are? Who you think you are and who you really are can be two different versions of yourself. From an eternal perspective, these two versions need to come together. God knows you and what you can become because He has known you from the beginning when you were His spirit sons and daughters. What you become will depend in large measure upon how you follow righteous principles and do good works . . . The Prophet Joseph Smith said, “If men do not comprehend the character of God, they do not comprehend themselves.” Knowing who you are—who you really are—is closely tied to knowing God, for you are His children.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: To Young Women (Liahona, Nov. 2005)
I Am a Child of God (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 5)
2. Sing "I Am a Child of God" Children's Songbook pg. 2
3. Read 2 Peter 1: 4-7 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I have inherited divine qualities, which I will strive to develop.
Then read and discuss the following from James E. Faust:
So who do you think you are? Who you think you are and who you really are can be two different versions of yourself. From an eternal perspective, these two versions need to come together. God knows you and what you can become because He has known you from the beginning when you were His spirit sons and daughters. What you become will depend in large measure upon how you follow righteous principles and do good works . . . The Prophet Joseph Smith said, “If men do not comprehend the character of God, they do not comprehend themselves.” Knowing who you are—who you really are—is closely tied to knowing God, for you are His children.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: To Young Women (Liahona, Nov. 2005)
I Am a Child of God (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 5)
Family Home Evening Lesson #25: YOUNG WOMEN VALUES--FAITH
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "I Know My Father Lives" Children's Songbook pg. 5
3. Read Alma 32:21 And now as I said concerning faith—faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I am a daughter of Heavenly Father, who loves me. I have faith in His eternal plan, which centers on Jesus Christ, my Savior.
Then read and discuss the following from Virginia H. Pearce:
Why me?” That’s a question we’ve all asked ourselves during hard times. Family difficulties, loneliness, awkwardness, problems with school—“why did it have to be me?” What would help? What is the answer?
President Gordon B. Hinckley said, “Of all our needs, I think the greatest is an increase in faith."
Could faith be the answer? We all know that more faith won’t make our problems disappear. But I believe as our faith increases, we become more able to not only survive the hard times but become better because of them. I believe faith is the answer.
Faith is the first of the Young Women Values: “I am a daughter of a Heavenly Father who loves me, and I will have faith in his eternal plan, which centers in Jesus Christ, my Savior."
In everyday language, faith means I really believe that:
• Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ live, and they are in charge of this world.
• They know me.
• They love me.
• They have a plan for my future.
• I will obey the commandments, work hard, and trust in their plan.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: God Will Make a Way (New Era, Jan. 2002)
The Infinite Power of Hope (Ensign, Nov. 2008)
My Faith in Christ Can Grow (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 11)
2. Sing "I Know My Father Lives" Children's Songbook pg. 5
3. Read Alma 32:21 And now as I said concerning faith—faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true.
4. Read and discuss the following from "Young Women Personal Progress"
I am a daughter of Heavenly Father, who loves me. I have faith in His eternal plan, which centers on Jesus Christ, my Savior.
Then read and discuss the following from Virginia H. Pearce:
Why me?” That’s a question we’ve all asked ourselves during hard times. Family difficulties, loneliness, awkwardness, problems with school—“why did it have to be me?” What would help? What is the answer?
President Gordon B. Hinckley said, “Of all our needs, I think the greatest is an increase in faith."
Could faith be the answer? We all know that more faith won’t make our problems disappear. But I believe as our faith increases, we become more able to not only survive the hard times but become better because of them. I believe faith is the answer.
Faith is the first of the Young Women Values: “I am a daughter of a Heavenly Father who loves me, and I will have faith in his eternal plan, which centers in Jesus Christ, my Savior."
In everyday language, faith means I really believe that:
• Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ live, and they are in charge of this world.
• They know me.
• They love me.
• They have a plan for my future.
• I will obey the commandments, work hard, and trust in their plan.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: God Will Make a Way (New Era, Jan. 2002)
The Infinite Power of Hope (Ensign, Nov. 2008)
My Faith in Christ Can Grow (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 11)
Family Home Evening Lesson #24: FOR THE STRENGTH OF YOUTH--SERVICE TO OTHERS
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Lord, I Would Follow Thee" Hymns pg. 220
3. Read John 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
Service to others is one of the most important characteristics of a disciple of Jesus Christ. A disciple is willing to bear other people’s burdens and to comfort those who need comfort (see Mosiah 18:8–9). Often Heavenly Father will meet the needs of others through you.
When serving, look to the Savior as your example. Although He came to earth as the Son of God, He humbly served those around Him.
There are many ways to serve others. You can serve in your Church assignments and in your home, school, and community. Seek daily the guidance of the Holy Ghost to know whom to serve and how to help meet their needs. Often the most important service is expressed through simple, everyday acts of kindness.
As you devote yourself to serving others, you will draw closer to Heavenly Father. Your heart will be filled with love. Your capacities will increase, and your life and the lives of those around you will be blessed.
Then read and discuss the following from Thomas S. Monson:
I witnessed such an act of service one Sunday as I attended the sacrament meeting of a small branch which consisted of patients in a nursing home. Most of the members were elderly and somewhat incapacitated. During the meeting, a sister called out aloud, “I’m cold! I’m cold!” Without a moment’s hesitation, one of the priests at the sacrament table arose and walked over to this sister, removed his own suit coat, placed it around her shoulders, and then returned to his duties at the sacrament table.
After the meeting, this young man came to me and apologized for blessing the sacrament without his suit coat. Quietly I said to him that he was never more appropriately dressed than he was that day when a dear widow was uncomfortably cold and he provided the warmth she needed by placing his jacket around her shoulders. A simple act of kindness? Yes, but much more: a genuine love and concern for others.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Unselfish Service (Ensign, May 2009)
Gospel Art Picture Kit: Serving One Another
Service (Gospel Principles, Chapter 28)
2. Sing "Lord, I Would Follow Thee" Hymns pg. 220
3. Read John 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
Service to others is one of the most important characteristics of a disciple of Jesus Christ. A disciple is willing to bear other people’s burdens and to comfort those who need comfort (see Mosiah 18:8–9). Often Heavenly Father will meet the needs of others through you.
When serving, look to the Savior as your example. Although He came to earth as the Son of God, He humbly served those around Him.
There are many ways to serve others. You can serve in your Church assignments and in your home, school, and community. Seek daily the guidance of the Holy Ghost to know whom to serve and how to help meet their needs. Often the most important service is expressed through simple, everyday acts of kindness.
As you devote yourself to serving others, you will draw closer to Heavenly Father. Your heart will be filled with love. Your capacities will increase, and your life and the lives of those around you will be blessed.
Then read and discuss the following from Thomas S. Monson:
I witnessed such an act of service one Sunday as I attended the sacrament meeting of a small branch which consisted of patients in a nursing home. Most of the members were elderly and somewhat incapacitated. During the meeting, a sister called out aloud, “I’m cold! I’m cold!” Without a moment’s hesitation, one of the priests at the sacrament table arose and walked over to this sister, removed his own suit coat, placed it around her shoulders, and then returned to his duties at the sacrament table.
After the meeting, this young man came to me and apologized for blessing the sacrament without his suit coat. Quietly I said to him that he was never more appropriately dressed than he was that day when a dear widow was uncomfortably cold and he provided the warmth she needed by placing his jacket around her shoulders. A simple act of kindness? Yes, but much more: a genuine love and concern for others.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Unselfish Service (Ensign, May 2009)
Gospel Art Picture Kit: Serving One Another
Service (Gospel Principles, Chapter 28)
Family Home Evening Lesson #23: FOR THE STRENGTH OF YOUTH--PHYSICAL HEALTH
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "The Lord Gave Me a Temple" Children's Songbook pg. 153
3. Read D&C 89: 18-20 And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; And shall find wisdom and great treasure of knowledge, even hidden treasures;
And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
The Lord has commanded you to take good care of your body. To do this, observe the Word of Wisdom, found in Doctrine and Covenants 89. Eat nutritious food, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. When you do all these things, you remain free from harmful addictions and have control over your life. You gain the blessings of a healthy body, an alert mind, and the guidance of the Holy Ghost.
Never use tobacco products, such as cigarettes, snuff, chewing tobacco, cigars, and pipe tobacco. They are very addictive and will damage your body and shorten your life. Also, do not drink coffee or tea, for these are addictive and harmful.
Any form of alcohol is harmful to your body and spirit. Being under the influence of alcohol weakens your judgment and self-control and could lead you to break the law of chastity or other commandments. Drinking can lead to alcoholism, which destroys individuals and families.
Any drug, chemical, or dangerous practice that is used to produce a sensation or “high” can destroy your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. These include hard drugs, prescription or over-the-counter medications that are abused, and household chemicals.
Never let Satan or others lead you to think that breaking the Word of Wisdom will make you happier or more attractive.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Addiction or Freedom (New Era, Sept. 1989)
Word of Wisdom (FHE Resource Book)
Gospel Art Picture Kit: Daniel Refusing the King’s Meat and Wine
The Lord's Law of Health (Gospel Principles, Chapter 29)
2. Sing "The Lord Gave Me a Temple" Children's Songbook pg. 153
3. Read D&C 89: 18-20 And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; And shall find wisdom and great treasure of knowledge, even hidden treasures;
And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
The Lord has commanded you to take good care of your body. To do this, observe the Word of Wisdom, found in Doctrine and Covenants 89. Eat nutritious food, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. When you do all these things, you remain free from harmful addictions and have control over your life. You gain the blessings of a healthy body, an alert mind, and the guidance of the Holy Ghost.
Never use tobacco products, such as cigarettes, snuff, chewing tobacco, cigars, and pipe tobacco. They are very addictive and will damage your body and shorten your life. Also, do not drink coffee or tea, for these are addictive and harmful.
Any form of alcohol is harmful to your body and spirit. Being under the influence of alcohol weakens your judgment and self-control and could lead you to break the law of chastity or other commandments. Drinking can lead to alcoholism, which destroys individuals and families.
Any drug, chemical, or dangerous practice that is used to produce a sensation or “high” can destroy your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. These include hard drugs, prescription or over-the-counter medications that are abused, and household chemicals.
Never let Satan or others lead you to think that breaking the Word of Wisdom will make you happier or more attractive.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Addiction or Freedom (New Era, Sept. 1989)
Word of Wisdom (FHE Resource Book)
Gospel Art Picture Kit: Daniel Refusing the King’s Meat and Wine
The Lord's Law of Health (Gospel Principles, Chapter 29)
Family Home Evening Lesson #22: FOR THE STRENGTH OF YOUTH--TITHES AND OFFERINGS
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "We Give Thee But Thine Own" Hymns pg. 218
3. Read Malachi 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
The law of tithing is an important commandment that you should obey throughout your life. A tithe is one-tenth of your income.
Paying tithing shows your gratitude for all that God has given you. It is a way to help build God’s kingdom on earth. Tithing is used to build temples and meetinghouses, translate and publish the scriptures, provide Church materials to members, do missionary work, perform temple and family history work, and support seminaries and institutes.
Your attitude is important in paying tithing. Pay it because you love the Lord and have faith in Him. Pay it willingly with a thankful heart. Pay it first, even when you think you don’t have enough money to meet your other needs. Doing so will help you overcome selfishness and be more receptive to the Spirit.
At the end of each year, schedule a time for tithing settlement with your bishop. This is a meeting in which you review your contribution records and declare whether you have paid a full tithe.
Obey the law of the fast by fasting once each month (if health permits), usually on the first Sunday of the month. A proper fast day observance includes not eating or drinking for two consecutive meals and giving a generous fast offering to help care for those in need. Begin and end your fast with prayer, asking for special help with a specific need.
Then read and discuss the following from Gordon B. Hinckley:
Some of you have money problems. I know that. There is never enough money in your homes. I know that. You are struggling to get along. What is the cure? The only thing I know of is payment of tithing. Now, that doesn’t mean that you will have a Cadillac and a mansion. But it was God who made the promise that He would open the windows of heaven and pour down blessings upon those who walked honestly with Him in the payment of their tithes and offerings, and He has the capacity to keep His promise. It is my testimony that He does keep that promise.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Like a Watered Garden (Liahona, Jan. 2002)
Paying Tithing (New Era, May 1973)
Tithing (FHE Resource Book)
Tithes and Offerings (Gospel Principles, Chapter 32)
2. Sing "We Give Thee But Thine Own" Hymns pg. 218
3. Read Malachi 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
The law of tithing is an important commandment that you should obey throughout your life. A tithe is one-tenth of your income.
Paying tithing shows your gratitude for all that God has given you. It is a way to help build God’s kingdom on earth. Tithing is used to build temples and meetinghouses, translate and publish the scriptures, provide Church materials to members, do missionary work, perform temple and family history work, and support seminaries and institutes.
Your attitude is important in paying tithing. Pay it because you love the Lord and have faith in Him. Pay it willingly with a thankful heart. Pay it first, even when you think you don’t have enough money to meet your other needs. Doing so will help you overcome selfishness and be more receptive to the Spirit.
At the end of each year, schedule a time for tithing settlement with your bishop. This is a meeting in which you review your contribution records and declare whether you have paid a full tithe.
Obey the law of the fast by fasting once each month (if health permits), usually on the first Sunday of the month. A proper fast day observance includes not eating or drinking for two consecutive meals and giving a generous fast offering to help care for those in need. Begin and end your fast with prayer, asking for special help with a specific need.
Then read and discuss the following from Gordon B. Hinckley:
Some of you have money problems. I know that. There is never enough money in your homes. I know that. You are struggling to get along. What is the cure? The only thing I know of is payment of tithing. Now, that doesn’t mean that you will have a Cadillac and a mansion. But it was God who made the promise that He would open the windows of heaven and pour down blessings upon those who walked honestly with Him in the payment of their tithes and offerings, and He has the capacity to keep His promise. It is my testimony that He does keep that promise.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Like a Watered Garden (Liahona, Jan. 2002)
Paying Tithing (New Era, May 1973)
Tithing (FHE Resource Book)
Tithes and Offerings (Gospel Principles, Chapter 32)
Family Home Evening Lesson #21: FOR THE STRENGTH OF YOUTH--SABBATH DAY OBSERVANCE
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Tis Sweet to Sing the Matchless Love" Hymns pg. 177
3. Read Exodus 20:8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
The Lord has given the Sabbath day for your benefit and has commanded you to keep it holy. Observing the Sabbath will bring you closer to the Lord and to your family. It will give you needed rest and rejuvenation.
Many uplifting activities are appropriate for the Sabbath. Worship the Lord, attend church, spend quiet time with your family, study the gospel, write letters, write in your journal, do family history work, and visit the sick or homebound. Your dress before, during, and after church meetings should show respect for the Sabbath.
When seeking a job, share with your potential employer your desire to attend your Sunday meetings and keep the Sabbath day holy. Many employers value employees with these personal convictions. Whenever possible, choose a job that does not require you to work on Sundays.
Sunday is not a holiday or a day for recreation or athletic events. Do not seek entertainment or spend money on this day. Let your friends know what your standards are so they will not try to persuade you to participate in activities that are not appropriate for the Sabbath.
Then read and discuss the following from Russell M. Nelson:
When I was [young], I wondered just what activities were appropriate for the Sabbath. I read lists of do’s and don’ts, all compiled by others. But now I have a much better understanding, which I gained from two Old Testament scriptures (Exodus 31:12–13; Ezekiel 20:12, 19–20). Pondering these scriptures has helped me to understand. My behavior on the Sabbath constitutes my sign to the Lord of my regard for him and for my covenants with him. … I have concluded that our activities on the Sabbath will be appropriate when we honestly consider them to be our personal sign of our commitment to the Lord.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Day of Delight (New Era, June 1993)
Sabbath (FHE Resource Book)
The Sabbath Day (Gospel Principles, Chapter 24)
2. Sing "Tis Sweet to Sing the Matchless Love" Hymns pg. 177
3. Read Exodus 20:8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
The Lord has given the Sabbath day for your benefit and has commanded you to keep it holy. Observing the Sabbath will bring you closer to the Lord and to your family. It will give you needed rest and rejuvenation.
Many uplifting activities are appropriate for the Sabbath. Worship the Lord, attend church, spend quiet time with your family, study the gospel, write letters, write in your journal, do family history work, and visit the sick or homebound. Your dress before, during, and after church meetings should show respect for the Sabbath.
When seeking a job, share with your potential employer your desire to attend your Sunday meetings and keep the Sabbath day holy. Many employers value employees with these personal convictions. Whenever possible, choose a job that does not require you to work on Sundays.
Sunday is not a holiday or a day for recreation or athletic events. Do not seek entertainment or spend money on this day. Let your friends know what your standards are so they will not try to persuade you to participate in activities that are not appropriate for the Sabbath.
Then read and discuss the following from Russell M. Nelson:
When I was [young], I wondered just what activities were appropriate for the Sabbath. I read lists of do’s and don’ts, all compiled by others. But now I have a much better understanding, which I gained from two Old Testament scriptures (Exodus 31:12–13; Ezekiel 20:12, 19–20). Pondering these scriptures has helped me to understand. My behavior on the Sabbath constitutes my sign to the Lord of my regard for him and for my covenants with him. … I have concluded that our activities on the Sabbath will be appropriate when we honestly consider them to be our personal sign of our commitment to the Lord.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Day of Delight (New Era, June 1993)
Sabbath (FHE Resource Book)
The Sabbath Day (Gospel Principles, Chapter 24)
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Family Home Evening Lesson #20: FOR THE STRENGTH OF YOUTH--HONESTY
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "I Believe in Being Honest" Children's Songbook pg. 149
3. Read Exodus 20: 15-16 Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
Be honest with yourself, others, and the Lord. When you are honest in every way, you build strength of character that will allow you to be of great service to God and others. You will be blessed with peace of mind and self-respect. When you are honest, you will be trusted by the Lord and by those around you.
Dishonesty hurts you and usually hurts others as well. When you lie, steal, shoplift, or cheat, you damage your spirit and become less able to do good things. Be honest in your job, giving a full amount of work for your pay.
Don’t rationalize that wrong is right, even though many people around you may think there is no harm in being dishonest. Being honest requires courage and commitment to do what you know is right.
Then read and discuss the following from James E. Faust:
Honesty is a principle, and we have our moral agency to determine how we will apply this principle. We have the agency to make choices, but ultimately we will be accountable for each choice we make. We may deceive others, but there is One we will never deceive.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Be Honest (New Era, Oct. 2005)
Honesty (FHE Resource Book)
Honesty (Gospel Principles, Chapter 31)
2. Sing "I Believe in Being Honest" Children's Songbook pg. 149
3. Read Exodus 20: 15-16 Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
Be honest with yourself, others, and the Lord. When you are honest in every way, you build strength of character that will allow you to be of great service to God and others. You will be blessed with peace of mind and self-respect. When you are honest, you will be trusted by the Lord and by those around you.
Dishonesty hurts you and usually hurts others as well. When you lie, steal, shoplift, or cheat, you damage your spirit and become less able to do good things. Be honest in your job, giving a full amount of work for your pay.
Don’t rationalize that wrong is right, even though many people around you may think there is no harm in being dishonest. Being honest requires courage and commitment to do what you know is right.
Then read and discuss the following from James E. Faust:
Honesty is a principle, and we have our moral agency to determine how we will apply this principle. We have the agency to make choices, but ultimately we will be accountable for each choice we make. We may deceive others, but there is One we will never deceive.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Be Honest (New Era, Oct. 2005)
Honesty (FHE Resource Book)
Honesty (Gospel Principles, Chapter 31)
Family Home Evening Lesson #19: FOR THE STRENGTH OF YOUTH--REPENTANCE
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Come Unto Jesus" Hymns pg. 117
3. Read D&C 58:42 Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
The Savior gave His life for us and suffered for our sins. This great sacrifice is called the Atonement. Through the Atonement, you can receive forgiveness and be cleansed from your sins when you repent. When you do what is necessary to receive forgiveness, you will know for yourself the power of the Atonement and the love God has for you. You will feel the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ, which will bring you great strength.
Satan wants you to think that you cannot repent, but that is absolutely not true. The Savior has promised you forgiveness if you will do what is required. The sooner you repent, the sooner you will find the blessings that come from forgiveness.
Some people knowingly break God’s commandments, expecting to repent before they go to the temple or serve a mission. Such deliberate sin mocks the Savior’s Atonement and invites Satan to influence your life. Repentance for such behavior is difficult and can take a long time. If you sin in this way, you may lose years of blessings and spiritual guidance. You may become trapped in the sinful behavior, making it difficult to find your way back.
You always need to confess your sins to the Lord. You should also confess your sins to those you have wronged. If you have committed serious sins, such as immorality, you need to confess them to your bishop.
Then read and discuss the following from Joseph F. Smith:
True repentance is not only sorrow for sins and humble penitence and contrition before God, but it involves the necessity of turning away from them, a discontinuance of all evil practices and deeds, a thorough reformation of life, a vital change from evil to good, from vice to virtue, from darkness to light. Not only so, but to make restitution so far as is possible for all the wrongs that we have done, to pay our debts and restore to God and man their rights, that which is due them from us. This is true repentance and the exercise of the will and all the powers of body and mind is demanded to complete this glorious work of repentance.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: You Can Be Forgiven (New Era, Oct. 2001)
What is True Repentance (New Era, May 1974)
Jesus Made Repentance Possible (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 10)
Gospel Art Picture Kit: Jesus Praying in Gethsemane
Repentance (Gospel Principles, Chapter 19)
2. Sing "Come Unto Jesus" Hymns pg. 117
3. Read D&C 58:42 Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more.
4. Read and discuss the following from "For the Strength of Youth"
The Savior gave His life for us and suffered for our sins. This great sacrifice is called the Atonement. Through the Atonement, you can receive forgiveness and be cleansed from your sins when you repent. When you do what is necessary to receive forgiveness, you will know for yourself the power of the Atonement and the love God has for you. You will feel the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ, which will bring you great strength.
Satan wants you to think that you cannot repent, but that is absolutely not true. The Savior has promised you forgiveness if you will do what is required. The sooner you repent, the sooner you will find the blessings that come from forgiveness.
Some people knowingly break God’s commandments, expecting to repent before they go to the temple or serve a mission. Such deliberate sin mocks the Savior’s Atonement and invites Satan to influence your life. Repentance for such behavior is difficult and can take a long time. If you sin in this way, you may lose years of blessings and spiritual guidance. You may become trapped in the sinful behavior, making it difficult to find your way back.
You always need to confess your sins to the Lord. You should also confess your sins to those you have wronged. If you have committed serious sins, such as immorality, you need to confess them to your bishop.
Then read and discuss the following from Joseph F. Smith:
True repentance is not only sorrow for sins and humble penitence and contrition before God, but it involves the necessity of turning away from them, a discontinuance of all evil practices and deeds, a thorough reformation of life, a vital change from evil to good, from vice to virtue, from darkness to light. Not only so, but to make restitution so far as is possible for all the wrongs that we have done, to pay our debts and restore to God and man their rights, that which is due them from us. This is true repentance and the exercise of the will and all the powers of body and mind is demanded to complete this glorious work of repentance.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: You Can Be Forgiven (New Era, Oct. 2001)
What is True Repentance (New Era, May 1974)
Jesus Made Repentance Possible (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 10)
Gospel Art Picture Kit: Jesus Praying in Gethsemane
Repentance (Gospel Principles, Chapter 19)
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