1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Samuel Tells of the Baby Jesus" Children's Songbook pg. 36
3. Read Helaman 16:2 But as many as there were who did not believe in the words of Samuel were angry with him; and they cast stones at him upon the wall, and also many shot arrows at him as he stood upon the wall; but the Spirit of the Lord was with him, insomuch that they could not hit him with their stones neither with their arrows.
4. Read and discuss "Samuel the Lamanite on the Wall" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
At a time when the Lamanites were more righteous than the Nephites, a Lamanite prophet named Samuel preached repentance to the Nephites. After the Nephites cast Samuel out of the city, he started back to his own land. However, the Lord told him to return and say whatever the Lord put into his heart. (See Helaman 13:1–3.)
The people would not let Samuel back into their city, so he climbed on top of the city wall. From there Samuel foretold the destruction of the Nephite nation in about 400 years. He said that if the Nephites did not repent, they would be destroyed by war, famine, and pestilence. (See Helaman 13:4–11.)
Samuel said that if it were not for the few righteous people in the city, they would be destroyed by fire (see Helaman 13:12–14). He told the people that they did not remember the Lord. Instead, they remembered their riches. (See Helaman 13:17–22.) The people were so wicked they made fun of the prophets and murdered them (see Helaman 13:24–26).
Samuel declared that in five years a sign would indicate that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, had been born. There would be a day, a night, and a day without darkness. A new star would appear, and there would be other signs in heaven. (See Helaman 14:2–6.)
Samuel also told them the signs of Jesus’ death. Following Jesus’ death, there would be total darkness for three days, until Jesus was resurrected (see Helaman 14:20). There would also be thundering and lightning, violent earthquakes, and tempests. Entire cities would be destroyed. (See Helaman 14:21–24.) After Christ’s Resurrection, many righteous dead would be resurrected (see Helaman 14:25).
Many Nephites believed Samuel. Those who did not believe threw stones and shot arrows at him as he stood on the wall, but they could not hit him. When some realized the Spirit of the Lord was protecting him, they too believed. (See Helaman 16:1–3.)
Most Nephites, however, did not believe Samuel. When they saw the stones and arrows were not hitting him, they tried to capture him. Samuel jumped down from the wall and left the land. The Nephites never heard from him again. (See Helaman 16:6–8.)
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Finding Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Ensign, Nov. 2004)
Samuel the Lamanite tells About Jesus Christ (Book of Mormon Stories)
Samuel the Lamanite (Friend, Sept. 1992)
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Family Home Evening Lesson #64: JESUS CHRIST IS THE SON OF GOD, AND HE IS A GOD OF MIRACLES
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "He Sent His Son" Children's Songbook pg. 34
3. Read 2 Nephi 27:23 For behold, I am God; and I am a God of miracles; and I will show unto the world that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and I work not among the children of men save it be according to their faith.
4. Read and discuss "Micah's Miracle" from the October, 2002 Friend:
Micah’s very first word was “Why?” From that day on, he asked questions. He asked about clouds, rainbows, rivers, and trees. He asked about books, trains, kings, and skyscrapers.
He liked to think about new things. His mom and dad couldn’t keep up with all the answers he needed. They even bought encyclopedias so that they could look up answers they weren’t sure about. And then one day, when Micah was seven, he asked a very important question: “Mom, how do I know for sure that Heavenly Father is real?”
Mom put down the jar of baby food she’d just taken from the fridge and turned to smile at him. “I’m glad you’re thinking about that, Micah. It’s only a few months until you’ll be old enough to be baptized, and it’s important to know about the promises you’ll be making. Knowing about Heavenly Father is the first step.”
“Oh, I know about Him, Mom. I’ve had lots of Primary lessons, and we’ve read about Him in the scriptures. But how do I find out if it’s really true?”
Mom sat down at the kitchen table and looked Micah right in the eye. “If you want a testimony of your own, you’ll have to do some hard work. You’ve seen lots of people stand up on fast Sunday and bear their testimonies. They tell what they believe.”
“Oh, yeah, like how Sister Thomas always talks about how she loves the temple, and Brother Matsom always cries when he gets to the part about Jesus.”
“Right. And have you noticed how you feel when people are bearing their testimonies?”
“Sometimes I feel warm and happy inside.”
“That’s the Holy Ghost telling you that you are hearing something true. If you want to find your own testimony, you’ll have to pray and ask for help, you’ll have to remember to study your scriptures, and you’ll have to try very hard to keep the commandments so that Heavenly Father will know that you are serious about wanting an answer.”
“I can do that.”
For the next two weeks, Micah’s mom and dad were amazed at how hard Micah worked. He played happily with his brother, Sam, and didn’t get angry. He watched his baby sister while Mom talked with her visiting teachers. He even picked up his toys the first time he was asked. When Dad sat down in the evening before bed to read the Book of Mormon with him, Micah tried very hard to listen and even sounded out a lot of the words himself. But one night Micah didn’t seem happy.
“Is something bothering you, Son?”
“Dad, I’ve been trying for two weeks now. I’ve been really, really good. I’ve read. I’ve prayed. And I’ve been nice! But I still don’t know if Heavenly Father is real or not.”
Dad nodded. “I can understand why you’re frustrated. Sometimes Heavenly Father makes us wait a little while for our answers so that when they do come, they mean more to us.”
“Why would He make me wait? I want to know if He’s real. If I don’t get an answer, then He must not be real.”
Dad put his arm around Micah. “Why don’t we see if there’s an answer in the scriptures?” He opened the Book of Mormon to Ether 12:6 and read, “ ‘faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.’ "
“What’s a trial?” Micah asked. “Mom got a squishy little packet of shampoo in the mail last week that said ‘trial’ on it, but I don’t see how washing my hair is going to help.”
“Well,” Dad said, “That little packet is so a person like your mom can try out a new shampoo and see if she likes it before she buys a big bottle. Mom gives the shampoo a trial so that she can see if it does what she wants it to. When Heavenly Father gives us a trial, it’s kind of like that. He wants to see if we do what He wants us to, even if it’s hard.”
“So Heavenly Father is waiting to see if I’m going to give up or not?”
“A testimony is one of the most important things He can give you. If you were going to give someone a very special present, wouldn’t you want to make sure that person really wanted it and would take care of it?”
“Yes, I guess so.”
“There are all kinds of miracles, Micah. Some of them are big and flashy, like Moses parting the Red Sea, but most of them are quiet, and the quietest of all is when the Holy Ghost talks to us about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Be patient, Son, and listen carefully.”
That night, long after everyone had gone to bed, Micah had a nightmare. It was terrible, and Micah woke up afraid to move. He was too scared to go into Mom and Dad’s room, too scared even to cry out for them to come to him. As he huddled under his blanket, he wondered what he could do to feel better. Last Sunday, his Primary teacher had told his class that when you are very afraid, you should pray for comfort.
“Dear Heavenly Father,” he whispered, “I really need help. I’ve tried very hard to find out if You’re there, and I know I’m supposed to be patient, but I can’t wait any longer. I’m scared.”
As soon as Micah finished his prayer, he heard a noise in the hall. Suddenly the bathroom light switched on, and Dad peeked around the edge of Micah’s bedroom door.
“Are you all right?” Dad said softly. “All of a sudden I woke up, and I’m sure I heard a voice say, ‘Micah needs you.’ What happened?”
“I had a really bad dream, Dad.”
“Oh? Why the big smile then?”
“When I was scared, Heavenly Father heard my prayer and woke you up. He has to be real because He helped me when I asked. You know, it doesn’t matter if it’s not a big, flashy miracle as long as it’s just what you need.”
Dad sat on the edge of Micah’s bed and hugged him tightly. “That’s right, Micah,” he said. “That’s right.”
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Heavenly Father Provided Us a Savior (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 9)
Christ Healing a Blind Man (Gospel Art Picture Kit)
Stilling the Storm (Gospel Art Picture Kit)
The Ten Lepers (Gospel Art Picture Kit)
Jesus Raising Lazarus from the Dead (Gospel Art Picture Kit)
Miracles of Faith (Ensign, July 2004)
2. Sing "He Sent His Son" Children's Songbook pg. 34
3. Read 2 Nephi 27:23 For behold, I am God; and I am a God of miracles; and I will show unto the world that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and I work not among the children of men save it be according to their faith.
4. Read and discuss "Micah's Miracle" from the October, 2002 Friend:
Micah’s very first word was “Why?” From that day on, he asked questions. He asked about clouds, rainbows, rivers, and trees. He asked about books, trains, kings, and skyscrapers.
He liked to think about new things. His mom and dad couldn’t keep up with all the answers he needed. They even bought encyclopedias so that they could look up answers they weren’t sure about. And then one day, when Micah was seven, he asked a very important question: “Mom, how do I know for sure that Heavenly Father is real?”
Mom put down the jar of baby food she’d just taken from the fridge and turned to smile at him. “I’m glad you’re thinking about that, Micah. It’s only a few months until you’ll be old enough to be baptized, and it’s important to know about the promises you’ll be making. Knowing about Heavenly Father is the first step.”
“Oh, I know about Him, Mom. I’ve had lots of Primary lessons, and we’ve read about Him in the scriptures. But how do I find out if it’s really true?”
Mom sat down at the kitchen table and looked Micah right in the eye. “If you want a testimony of your own, you’ll have to do some hard work. You’ve seen lots of people stand up on fast Sunday and bear their testimonies. They tell what they believe.”
“Oh, yeah, like how Sister Thomas always talks about how she loves the temple, and Brother Matsom always cries when he gets to the part about Jesus.”
“Right. And have you noticed how you feel when people are bearing their testimonies?”
“Sometimes I feel warm and happy inside.”
“That’s the Holy Ghost telling you that you are hearing something true. If you want to find your own testimony, you’ll have to pray and ask for help, you’ll have to remember to study your scriptures, and you’ll have to try very hard to keep the commandments so that Heavenly Father will know that you are serious about wanting an answer.”
“I can do that.”
For the next two weeks, Micah’s mom and dad were amazed at how hard Micah worked. He played happily with his brother, Sam, and didn’t get angry. He watched his baby sister while Mom talked with her visiting teachers. He even picked up his toys the first time he was asked. When Dad sat down in the evening before bed to read the Book of Mormon with him, Micah tried very hard to listen and even sounded out a lot of the words himself. But one night Micah didn’t seem happy.
“Is something bothering you, Son?”
“Dad, I’ve been trying for two weeks now. I’ve been really, really good. I’ve read. I’ve prayed. And I’ve been nice! But I still don’t know if Heavenly Father is real or not.”
Dad nodded. “I can understand why you’re frustrated. Sometimes Heavenly Father makes us wait a little while for our answers so that when they do come, they mean more to us.”
“Why would He make me wait? I want to know if He’s real. If I don’t get an answer, then He must not be real.”
Dad put his arm around Micah. “Why don’t we see if there’s an answer in the scriptures?” He opened the Book of Mormon to Ether 12:6 and read, “ ‘faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.’ "
“What’s a trial?” Micah asked. “Mom got a squishy little packet of shampoo in the mail last week that said ‘trial’ on it, but I don’t see how washing my hair is going to help.”
“Well,” Dad said, “That little packet is so a person like your mom can try out a new shampoo and see if she likes it before she buys a big bottle. Mom gives the shampoo a trial so that she can see if it does what she wants it to. When Heavenly Father gives us a trial, it’s kind of like that. He wants to see if we do what He wants us to, even if it’s hard.”
“So Heavenly Father is waiting to see if I’m going to give up or not?”
“A testimony is one of the most important things He can give you. If you were going to give someone a very special present, wouldn’t you want to make sure that person really wanted it and would take care of it?”
“Yes, I guess so.”
“There are all kinds of miracles, Micah. Some of them are big and flashy, like Moses parting the Red Sea, but most of them are quiet, and the quietest of all is when the Holy Ghost talks to us about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Be patient, Son, and listen carefully.”
That night, long after everyone had gone to bed, Micah had a nightmare. It was terrible, and Micah woke up afraid to move. He was too scared to go into Mom and Dad’s room, too scared even to cry out for them to come to him. As he huddled under his blanket, he wondered what he could do to feel better. Last Sunday, his Primary teacher had told his class that when you are very afraid, you should pray for comfort.
“Dear Heavenly Father,” he whispered, “I really need help. I’ve tried very hard to find out if You’re there, and I know I’m supposed to be patient, but I can’t wait any longer. I’m scared.”
As soon as Micah finished his prayer, he heard a noise in the hall. Suddenly the bathroom light switched on, and Dad peeked around the edge of Micah’s bedroom door.
“Are you all right?” Dad said softly. “All of a sudden I woke up, and I’m sure I heard a voice say, ‘Micah needs you.’ What happened?”
“I had a really bad dream, Dad.”
“Oh? Why the big smile then?”
“When I was scared, Heavenly Father heard my prayer and woke you up. He has to be real because He helped me when I asked. You know, it doesn’t matter if it’s not a big, flashy miracle as long as it’s just what you need.”
Dad sat on the edge of Micah’s bed and hugged him tightly. “That’s right, Micah,” he said. “That’s right.”
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Heavenly Father Provided Us a Savior (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 9)
Christ Healing a Blind Man (Gospel Art Picture Kit)
Stilling the Storm (Gospel Art Picture Kit)
The Ten Lepers (Gospel Art Picture Kit)
Jesus Raising Lazarus from the Dead (Gospel Art Picture Kit)
Miracles of Faith (Ensign, July 2004)
Monday, June 28, 2010
Family Home Evening Lesson #63: I CAN FOLLOW JESUS CHRIST'S EXAMPLE
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Come, Follow Me" Hymns pg. 116
3. Read Luke 18:22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.
4. Read and discuss the following from Joseph B. Wirthlin in the May, 2002 Ensign:
They were fishermen before they heard the call. Casting their nets into the Sea of Galilee, Peter and Andrew stopped as Jesus of Nazareth approached, looked into their eyes, and spoke the simple words, “Follow me.” Matthew writes that the two fishermen “straightway left their nets, and followed him.”
Then the Son of Man approached two other fishermen who were in a ship with their father, mending their nets. Jesus called to them, “and [James and John] immediately left the ship and their father, and followed [the Lord].” 1
Have you ever wondered what it must have been like to have lived in the days of the Savior? If you had been there, would you have heeded His call “Follow me”?
Perhaps a more realistic question might be, “If the Savior were to call you today, would you be just as willing to leave your nets and follow Him?” I am confident that many would.
As the clatter and clamor of life bustle about us, we hear shouting to “come here” and to “go there.” In the midst of the noise and seductive voices that compete for our time and interest, a solitary figure stands on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, calling quietly to us, “Follow me.”
We can easily get our lives out of balance. I remember a few years that were particularly challenging for me. Our family had grown to seven children. I had served as a counselor in the bishopric and was then given the sacred call as bishop of our ward. I was striving to manage our business that required long hours each day. I pay tribute to my wonderful wife, who always made it possible for me to serve the Lord.
There was simply too much to do in the time available. Instead of sacrificing things of significance, I decided I’d get up earlier, take care of my business, then spend the time required to be a good father and husband and a faithful member of the Church. It wasn’t easy. There were mornings when the alarm clock went off that I cracked open an eyelid and glared at it, daring it to keep ringing.
Nevertheless, the Lord was merciful and helped me to find the energy and time to do all I had committed to do. Although it was difficult, I have never regretted making the choice to heed the Savior’s call and follow Him.
Think of the debt we owe to Him . . . because of the Savior, we will live forever. No amount of money can purchase this exalted state. Eternal life is a gift from a loving Heavenly Father, offered freely and liberally to all who heed the call of the Man of Galilee.
How do we follow the Savior? By exercising faith. By believing in Him. By believing in our Heavenly Father. By believing that God speaks to man on earth today.
We follow the Savior by repenting of our sins—by experiencing sorrow because of them and forsaking them.
We follow the Savior by entering the waters of baptism and receiving a remission of our sins, by receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost and allowing that influence to inspire, instruct, guide, and comfort us.
How do we follow the Savior? By obeying Him. He and our Heavenly Father have given us commandments—not to punish or torment us, but to help us come to a fulness of joy, both in this life and for the eternities to come, worlds without end.
In contrast, when we cling to our sins, our pleasures, and sometimes even our perceived obligations; resist the influence of the Holy Ghost; and put aside the words of the prophets; we then stand at the shore of our own Galilee, nets tightly entangling us. We find ourselves unable to leave them behind and follow the living Christ.
But the Shepherd calls to each of us today. Will we recognize the voice of the Son of God? Will we follow Him?
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: I Can Follow Jesus Christ's Example (Friend, July 2010)
What Does Jesus Christ Want Me to Do? (Friend, Sept. 1997)
Jesus is My Example (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 12)
Calling of the Fishermen (Gospel Art Picture Kit)
2. Sing "Come, Follow Me" Hymns pg. 116
3. Read Luke 18:22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.
4. Read and discuss the following from Joseph B. Wirthlin in the May, 2002 Ensign:
They were fishermen before they heard the call. Casting their nets into the Sea of Galilee, Peter and Andrew stopped as Jesus of Nazareth approached, looked into their eyes, and spoke the simple words, “Follow me.” Matthew writes that the two fishermen “straightway left their nets, and followed him.”
Then the Son of Man approached two other fishermen who were in a ship with their father, mending their nets. Jesus called to them, “and [James and John] immediately left the ship and their father, and followed [the Lord].” 1
Have you ever wondered what it must have been like to have lived in the days of the Savior? If you had been there, would you have heeded His call “Follow me”?
Perhaps a more realistic question might be, “If the Savior were to call you today, would you be just as willing to leave your nets and follow Him?” I am confident that many would.
As the clatter and clamor of life bustle about us, we hear shouting to “come here” and to “go there.” In the midst of the noise and seductive voices that compete for our time and interest, a solitary figure stands on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, calling quietly to us, “Follow me.”
We can easily get our lives out of balance. I remember a few years that were particularly challenging for me. Our family had grown to seven children. I had served as a counselor in the bishopric and was then given the sacred call as bishop of our ward. I was striving to manage our business that required long hours each day. I pay tribute to my wonderful wife, who always made it possible for me to serve the Lord.
There was simply too much to do in the time available. Instead of sacrificing things of significance, I decided I’d get up earlier, take care of my business, then spend the time required to be a good father and husband and a faithful member of the Church. It wasn’t easy. There were mornings when the alarm clock went off that I cracked open an eyelid and glared at it, daring it to keep ringing.
Nevertheless, the Lord was merciful and helped me to find the energy and time to do all I had committed to do. Although it was difficult, I have never regretted making the choice to heed the Savior’s call and follow Him.
Think of the debt we owe to Him . . . because of the Savior, we will live forever. No amount of money can purchase this exalted state. Eternal life is a gift from a loving Heavenly Father, offered freely and liberally to all who heed the call of the Man of Galilee.
How do we follow the Savior? By exercising faith. By believing in Him. By believing in our Heavenly Father. By believing that God speaks to man on earth today.
We follow the Savior by repenting of our sins—by experiencing sorrow because of them and forsaking them.
We follow the Savior by entering the waters of baptism and receiving a remission of our sins, by receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost and allowing that influence to inspire, instruct, guide, and comfort us.
How do we follow the Savior? By obeying Him. He and our Heavenly Father have given us commandments—not to punish or torment us, but to help us come to a fulness of joy, both in this life and for the eternities to come, worlds without end.
In contrast, when we cling to our sins, our pleasures, and sometimes even our perceived obligations; resist the influence of the Holy Ghost; and put aside the words of the prophets; we then stand at the shore of our own Galilee, nets tightly entangling us. We find ourselves unable to leave them behind and follow the living Christ.
But the Shepherd calls to each of us today. Will we recognize the voice of the Son of God? Will we follow Him?
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: I Can Follow Jesus Christ's Example (Friend, July 2010)
What Does Jesus Christ Want Me to Do? (Friend, Sept. 1997)
Jesus is My Example (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 12)
Calling of the Fishermen (Gospel Art Picture Kit)
Monday, June 14, 2010
Family Home Evening Lesson #62: DANIEL IN THE LION'S DEN
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "Press Forward Saints" Hymns pg. 81
3. Read Daniel 6:10 Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.
4. Read and discuss "Daniel in the Lion's Den" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
King Darius of Babylon chose 120 princes to rule his kingdom. He also chose three presidents over these princes. Daniel, a righteous man, was the first of the three presidents “because an excellent spirit was in him” (Daniel 6:3).
The other presidents and princes were jealous of Daniel. They tried to find a reason to complain to the king about him, but they could not. (See Daniel 6:4.)
Finally, the other rulers decided on a plan to get Daniel in trouble. They knew that Daniel prayed every day. So they asked King Darius to sign a decree that for the next 30 days no one could ask a favor of any God or man, except of the king. Anyone who disobeyed the decree would be thrown into a den of lions. King Darius signed the decree. (See Daniel 6:5–9.)
Though Daniel heard about the decree, he continued to pray three times a day in his home, as he had done before (see Daniel 6:10). The jealous rulers saw Daniel praying (see Daniel 6:11). They went to King Darius and reminded him, “Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall ask a petition of any God or man within thirty days, save of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions?” The king answered, “The thing is true” (Daniel 6:12). They then informed the king that Daniel had been praying to his God (see Daniel 6:13).
The king loved Daniel and did not want him to be killed. He tried to find a way to save Daniel, but he could not change the decree. (See Daniel 6:14–15.) So Daniel was thrown into the den of lions. The sorrowful king told Daniel, “Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee” (Daniel 6:16). A large rock was placed over the opening to the lions’ den (see Daniel 6:17).
King Darius spent the night fasting. He could not sleep. Early in the morning he hurried to the den of lions. (See Daniel 6:18–19.) The anguished king cried out, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?” (Daniel 6:20).
From within the den came Daniel’s voice: “My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions’ mouths, that they have not hurt me” (Daniel 6:22).
The king was joyful. He commanded that Daniel be taken out of the den. Because of Daniel’s faith, God had protected him. (See Daniel 6:23.)
The men who had accused Daniel were thrown into the den and were killed by the lions (see Daniel 6:24). King Darius signed another decree that everyone in his kingdom should fear and tremble before Daniel’s God (see Daniel 6:25–27).
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Daniel and the Lions (Friend, Feb. 1983)
True to the Faith (Ensign, May 2006)
2. Sing "Press Forward Saints" Hymns pg. 81
3. Read Daniel 6:10 Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.
4. Read and discuss "Daniel in the Lion's Den" from The Gospel Art Picture Kit:
King Darius of Babylon chose 120 princes to rule his kingdom. He also chose three presidents over these princes. Daniel, a righteous man, was the first of the three presidents “because an excellent spirit was in him” (Daniel 6:3).
The other presidents and princes were jealous of Daniel. They tried to find a reason to complain to the king about him, but they could not. (See Daniel 6:4.)
Finally, the other rulers decided on a plan to get Daniel in trouble. They knew that Daniel prayed every day. So they asked King Darius to sign a decree that for the next 30 days no one could ask a favor of any God or man, except of the king. Anyone who disobeyed the decree would be thrown into a den of lions. King Darius signed the decree. (See Daniel 6:5–9.)
Though Daniel heard about the decree, he continued to pray three times a day in his home, as he had done before (see Daniel 6:10). The jealous rulers saw Daniel praying (see Daniel 6:11). They went to King Darius and reminded him, “Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall ask a petition of any God or man within thirty days, save of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions?” The king answered, “The thing is true” (Daniel 6:12). They then informed the king that Daniel had been praying to his God (see Daniel 6:13).
The king loved Daniel and did not want him to be killed. He tried to find a way to save Daniel, but he could not change the decree. (See Daniel 6:14–15.) So Daniel was thrown into the den of lions. The sorrowful king told Daniel, “Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee” (Daniel 6:16). A large rock was placed over the opening to the lions’ den (see Daniel 6:17).
King Darius spent the night fasting. He could not sleep. Early in the morning he hurried to the den of lions. (See Daniel 6:18–19.) The anguished king cried out, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?” (Daniel 6:20).
From within the den came Daniel’s voice: “My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions’ mouths, that they have not hurt me” (Daniel 6:22).
The king was joyful. He commanded that Daniel be taken out of the den. Because of Daniel’s faith, God had protected him. (See Daniel 6:23.)
The men who had accused Daniel were thrown into the den and were killed by the lions (see Daniel 6:24). King Darius signed another decree that everyone in his kingdom should fear and tremble before Daniel’s God (see Daniel 6:25–27).
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Daniel and the Lions (Friend, Feb. 1983)
True to the Faith (Ensign, May 2006)
Monday, May 31, 2010
Family Home Evening Lesson #61: THE HOLY GHOST TESTIFIES OF THE TRUTH OF ALL THINGS
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "The Still Small Voice" Children's Songbook, pg. 106
3. Read Moroni 10:5 And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.
4. Read and discuss the following from Boyd K. Packer in the July, 1995 Friend:
Following baptism, in the ordinance of confirmation, you received, or will receive, the gift of the Holy Ghost.
While the Holy Ghost may inspire all mankind, the gift carries the right to have it as a “constant companion” (see D&C 121:46). It is “by the power of the Holy Ghost [that you] may know the truth of all things” (Moro. 10:5).
The Holy Ghost speaks with a voice that you feel more than you hear. It is described as a “still small voice” (see D&C 85:6). And while we speak of “listening” to the whisperings of the Spirit, most often one describes a spiritual prompting by saying, “I had a feeling …”
The scriptures are full of such expressions as “The veil was taken from our minds, and the eyes of our understanding were opened” (D&C 110:1), “I will tell you in your mind and in your heart” (D&C 8:2), and “Speak the thoughts that I shall put into your hearts” (D&C 100:5).
The prophet Enos said, “While I was thus struggling in the spirit, behold, the voice of the Lord came into my mind” (Enos 1:10). Enos then related what the Lord put into his mind.
The voice of the Spirit speaks gently, prompting you what to do or what to say, or it may caution or warn you. Ignore or disobey these promptings, and the Spirit will leave you. It is your choice—your agency.
The Savior said: “If ye love me, keep my commandments.
“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide [stay] with you for ever;
“Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” (John 14:15–17.)
I bear witness of the power of the Spirit and thank God that this wonderful gift is given to you, our youth, to guide you as you move forward to a happy life.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Learning to Recognize the Spirit (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 15)
Gaining a Testimony Through the Holy Ghost (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 16)
The Holy Gost Testifies of the Truth of All Things (Friend, June 2010)
2. Sing "The Still Small Voice" Children's Songbook, pg. 106
3. Read Moroni 10:5 And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.
4. Read and discuss the following from Boyd K. Packer in the July, 1995 Friend:
Following baptism, in the ordinance of confirmation, you received, or will receive, the gift of the Holy Ghost.
While the Holy Ghost may inspire all mankind, the gift carries the right to have it as a “constant companion” (see D&C 121:46). It is “by the power of the Holy Ghost [that you] may know the truth of all things” (Moro. 10:5).
The Holy Ghost speaks with a voice that you feel more than you hear. It is described as a “still small voice” (see D&C 85:6). And while we speak of “listening” to the whisperings of the Spirit, most often one describes a spiritual prompting by saying, “I had a feeling …”
The scriptures are full of such expressions as “The veil was taken from our minds, and the eyes of our understanding were opened” (D&C 110:1), “I will tell you in your mind and in your heart” (D&C 8:2), and “Speak the thoughts that I shall put into your hearts” (D&C 100:5).
The prophet Enos said, “While I was thus struggling in the spirit, behold, the voice of the Lord came into my mind” (Enos 1:10). Enos then related what the Lord put into his mind.
The voice of the Spirit speaks gently, prompting you what to do or what to say, or it may caution or warn you. Ignore or disobey these promptings, and the Spirit will leave you. It is your choice—your agency.
The Savior said: “If ye love me, keep my commandments.
“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide [stay] with you for ever;
“Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” (John 14:15–17.)
I bear witness of the power of the Spirit and thank God that this wonderful gift is given to you, our youth, to guide you as you move forward to a happy life.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: Learning to Recognize the Spirit (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 15)
Gaining a Testimony Through the Holy Ghost (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 16)
The Holy Gost Testifies of the Truth of All Things (Friend, June 2010)
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Family Home Evening Lesson #60: PRINCIPALS AND ORDINANCES OF THE GOSPEL LEAD ME TO JESUS CHRIST
1. Opening Prayer
2. Sing "The Fourth Article of Faith" Children's Songbook, pg. 124
3. Read Articles of Faith 1:4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
4. Read and discuss the following from the March, 2000 Friend:
Do you know what a covenant in the Church is? It is a sacred promise, an agreement between Heavenly Father and His children. Since the time of Adam and Eve, Father in Heaven has made covenants with His children to help us live righteously and be worthy to live with Him again.
In the scriptures, we learn about many people who made covenants with the Lord. When the people of Alma gathered at the waters of Mormon, he invited them to be baptized, to make a covenant (see Mosiah 18:8–13). The people were so happy that they clapped their hands with joy. They wanted to show their love for Heavenly Father, and their desire to keep His commandments, by being baptized.
Alma taught his people what they must do to keep and honor their baptismal covenant. He said that they must be willing to be called God’s people and to obey His commandments. He told them that they should help one another and comfort one another. They were to be “witnesses of God” (Mosiah 18:9). That means that they would tell others about Heavenly Father and about how much He loves each of His children. If they did these things, the Lord would bless them with His Spirit. Alma’s people learned that Heavenly Father loves us and wants us to make a sacred covenant with Him.
We begin our journey back to Him by making a covenant and being baptized. When Jesus was baptized, He made a covenant that He would be obedient to Heavenly Father’s commandments (see 2 Ne. 31:5–8). When you are baptized, you make that same covenant to serve Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Then, when you are confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you covenant to take His name upon you, to always remember Him, and to keep His commandments. Just like the people of Alma, you promise to be a witness of the Savior—to tell others about, or testify of, Him. When you keep your part of the baptismal covenant, you will always have His Spirit to be with you. That is God’s promise to you.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: My Faith in Christ Can Grow (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 11)
Principals and Ordinances of the Gospel Lead Me to Jesus Christ (Friend, May 2010)
A Sacred Promise (Friend, March 2000)
Be Not Afraid (Friend, Jan. 2007)
2. Sing "The Fourth Article of Faith" Children's Songbook, pg. 124
3. Read Articles of Faith 1:4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
4. Read and discuss the following from the March, 2000 Friend:
Do you know what a covenant in the Church is? It is a sacred promise, an agreement between Heavenly Father and His children. Since the time of Adam and Eve, Father in Heaven has made covenants with His children to help us live righteously and be worthy to live with Him again.
In the scriptures, we learn about many people who made covenants with the Lord. When the people of Alma gathered at the waters of Mormon, he invited them to be baptized, to make a covenant (see Mosiah 18:8–13). The people were so happy that they clapped their hands with joy. They wanted to show their love for Heavenly Father, and their desire to keep His commandments, by being baptized.
Alma taught his people what they must do to keep and honor their baptismal covenant. He said that they must be willing to be called God’s people and to obey His commandments. He told them that they should help one another and comfort one another. They were to be “witnesses of God” (Mosiah 18:9). That means that they would tell others about Heavenly Father and about how much He loves each of His children. If they did these things, the Lord would bless them with His Spirit. Alma’s people learned that Heavenly Father loves us and wants us to make a sacred covenant with Him.
We begin our journey back to Him by making a covenant and being baptized. When Jesus was baptized, He made a covenant that He would be obedient to Heavenly Father’s commandments (see 2 Ne. 31:5–8). When you are baptized, you make that same covenant to serve Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Then, when you are confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you covenant to take His name upon you, to always remember Him, and to keep His commandments. Just like the people of Alma, you promise to be a witness of the Savior—to tell others about, or testify of, Him. When you keep your part of the baptismal covenant, you will always have His Spirit to be with you. That is God’s promise to you.
5. Closing Prayer
Additional Resources: My Faith in Christ Can Grow (FHE Resource Book, Lesson 11)
Principals and Ordinances of the Gospel Lead Me to Jesus Christ (Friend, May 2010)
A Sacred Promise (Friend, March 2000)
Be Not Afraid (Friend, Jan. 2007)
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