Why Choose to Be Obedient?

Friend May 2022 “Why Do We Choose to Be Obedient?”

The truth can make me free.

John 8:31–36

Some people think that living the gospel restricts them. How can you use John 8:31–36 to help the children understand that living the gospel actually makes us free?

• Invite the children to read John 8:31–36 and share what they think it means to be a servant of sin. How do the teachings of Jesus help us be free?
• Show a lock to represent sin and a key to represent how truths of the gospel can make us free. For example, knowing about the Savior’s Atonement can give us freedom to repent and be forgiven of our sins. Or knowing about the Word of Wisdom can give us freedom to avoid addictions.

To “fear God” means to love and obey Him.

Proverbs 1:7; 2:5; 15:33; 16:6; Ecclesiastes 12:13

“Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022” One of the important messages in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes is to “fear God, and keep his commandments” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Ponder how you can help the children understand what it means to fear God.

• Invite the children to list some things that people might fear. Then ask them to read Proverbs 1:7 and Ecclesiastes 12:13. What does it mean to fear God? To help answer this question, ask a child to read the verses again, replacing the word “fear” with the word “reverence.” Repeat this activity with words like “love,” “obedience,” or “obey.” How does this change our understanding of what it means to fear God?

As used in this verse, fear means reverence, or “profound respect mingled with love. … Reverence embraces regard, deference [respect], honor, and esteem” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: David O. McKay [2003], 30).

• Invite each child to choose one of the following verses to read, looking for the word “fear”: Proverbs 1:7; 2:5; 15:33; 16:6. Ask the children to share what their verse teaches about blessings that come when we fear the Lord, which means that we show reverence and respect toward Him (see also Proverbs 14:26–27). How can we show the Lord that we love and respect Him?

Friend June 2021 “Respect for Sacred Things”

Friend June 1999 “Keep the Commandments”

“By small and simple things are great things brought to pass.”

Alma 37:6–7

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 36-38” Your children might enjoy finding small items that make big things happen. Items like a battery, car key, or even a toy that comforts them might be examples. You could then read Alma 37:6–7 together and think of some small or simple things that God wants us to do. What big things can happen when we obey these small or simple commandments?

Images from Clipart Library

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 36-38” Show a picture or two of small things that accumulate into big things, such as a blade of grass and a field, or a raindrop and a lake. Testify that even small, simple actions can make a big difference in our lives and in the lives of others. Encourage the children to talk about some simple, good things they do every day, or share your own examples. Invite the children to pick one simple, good thing they can do this week and to draw a picture of themselves doing it. Invite them to take their drawings home and share them with their families.

Small Things Make a Difference from The Friend

Friend July 2020 “My Family Night Fun”

Friend August 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

With Heavenly Father’s help, small things can make a big difference (see Alma 37:6–7). Help make your favorite recipe. What would happen to the recipe if you took out one of the ingredients? Talk about how small things can make a difference and how you can make a difference too.

For younger children: Look for small things that are helpful, like a small seed that turns into a plant or a light switch that turns on light. Talk about how small things can make a big difference, just like you!

• Your children could also try something like this: start filling a cup with water, one drop at a time. How does this relate to Alma 37:6–7? Then you could talk about how the Lord’s “small and simple things,” such as reading the scriptures daily, are like drops of water in a cup.

• Help your children think of ways that they bring about great things at home, school, or church. The song “‘Give,’ Said the Little Stream” (Children’s Songbook, 236) also illustrates this principle.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 36-38”

Read Alma 37:6–7, and invite the children to crouch down every time you read the word “small.” Show them a few small things that can make big things happen or move big things, such as a battery or a car key. What big things happen or move because of these small things? Help the children think of some small or simple things God wants us to do. What big things can happen because of these small or simple commandments? Invite the children to pick one simple, good thing they can do this week and to draw a picture of themselves doing it. 

Friend July 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Alma 37:6 together. Crouch down when you hear the word “small” and jump up and spread your arms wide when you hear the word “great.” You could use the scripture verse or repeat the phrase, “Small things can make a great difference!” Talk about how small things like reading the scriptures or praying can make a great difference.

Friend July 2020 “Small and Simple” Boy does small, kind acts to help others which help him grow too.

Blessings Come From Obedience to God.

Doctrine and Covenants 130:20–21; 132:5, 21–23

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132”

• Share a simple comparison with the children that shows how important it is to follow instructions; for example, talk with them about the steps we must follow to prepare food or play a game or build something. What happens when we don’t follow the instructions? (Maybe you have a personal experience you can share.) Read Doctrine and Covenants 130:21, and compare these instructions to the commandments we must follow to receive blessings from Heavenly Father.
• Ask the children if they can think of a time when they obeyed one of God’s commandments. How did they feel? Sing together a song about obedience, such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47), and identify blessings of obedience mentioned in the song. Discuss some of the things God has commanded us to do. How does God bless us when we keep those commandments?

• Sing a song about obedience, such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47), and invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 130:20–21and 132:5. Help them find words and ideas in the verses that are similar to those in the song. How do we receive blessings from God? Ask the children to share how they have been blessed for obeying God’s laws.
• Read together Doctrine and Covenants 132:21–23, and invite the children to draw pictures to represent what they learn from these verses. Encourage them to be creative, and suggest that they include in their drawings the laws or commandments that help us stay on the narrow way to eternal life.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132”

You could sing a song about gratitude, such as “Count Your Blessings” (Hymns, no. 241), and make a list of the blessings your family has received for obeying God’s laws. What blessings do we hope to receive? How can we receive those blessings?

Latter Day Kids “Obeying God’s Commandments Leads to Happiness” Lesson ideas

For additional teaching ideas see Commandments, Obedience and Resources for Teaching Children: Commandments, Obedience

Friend February 2021 “For Older Kids” I know that obeying Heavenly Father is worth it because He always has a plan with good consequences in the end. I am grateful that Heavenly Father helps me do hard things. No matter how hard things get, I know I can always rely on Heavenly Father. Jayden T., age 10, New Mexico, USA

• Sing a song that testifies of God’s promises, such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). Help the children identify things that God has promised us if we are faithful.

Liahona February 2023 “Life Isn’t Fair–and That’s OK” Good and bad things happen to people who are living the gospel as well as to people who aren’t—God “maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:45). That’s part of life.

So what about the promises that living the gospel brings blessings and joy? The scriptures do say that when we keep the commandments we are blessed (see Mosiah 2:22). But blessings might not always come how or when we expect them to. Living the gospel doesn’t guarantee we will have more money, more success, or fewer trials than other people. And it doesn’t mean we can expect particular temporal blessings from God as a form of “payment” for being righteous.¹

But there are certain blessings we can expect as we keep the commandments. We are promised to always have the Spirit to be with us (see Moroni 4:3). And as we turn to the Lord in faith, we will be given strength to face the trials that inevitably come.²

We are promised true joy and peace (the kind that is not determined by our circumstances).³ And we are also promised the greatest gift of all—eternal life. As Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has said, “Your faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ will be rewarded more than you can imagine.”⁴

“… Because of Him, we can have peace in this world and be of good cheer. If we let Him, Jesus Christ will consecrate unfairness for our gain [see 2 Nephi 2:2]. He will not just console us and restore what was lost [see Job 42:10, 12–13; Jacob 3:1]; He will use the unfairness for our benefit.”⁶

Obedience brings God’s power into my life.

Joshua 6–8

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” These chapters deal with battles over the lands of Jericho and Ai. What do you learn about how God can help you and what you need to do to access His power? As you read them, consider how you battle temptation in your own life (for example, see Joshua 7:10–13). What impresses you about the Lord’s instructions for taking Jericho? (see Joshua 6:1–5). Perhaps the account in Joshua 7 will inspire you to determine if “there is an accursed thing” in your life that you need to remove (Joshua 7:13).

Your family might have fun acting out the instructions the Lord gave to the Israelites in order to conquer Jericho. What might the Lord want us to learn from this story?

Media Library “Joshua Taking Jericho (The Taking of Jericho)”

Old Testament Coloring Book “The City of Jericho”

Obedience to God’s Commands Leads Me to Eternal Life

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020: 1 Nephi 11-15 Bring a box containing several clues that describe a location in or around the church building. Use the box and clues to represent the Liahona, and let the children take turns selecting clues and guessing what the location is. Then travel to the location together. Explain that when we show faith and follow the direction the Lord gives us, He will help us return to Him (see Alma 37:38–42). How does Heavenly Father guide us in our journey back to Him?

The Red Crystal This print out can be used to write clues on to describe a location in the church, or you can place scriptures a picture of a prophet, church magazine, etc…around the room. When the children find them they can stick a Liahona on them, because they are….”What helps us today to find our way back to Heavenly Father.” CFM-For Primary page 17

The Cozy Red Cottage

The Liahona Teachingldschildren.com Attention Activity: Tape the sign “Eternal Life” on a wall. On an opposite wall put the sign “Mortal Birth.” Ask for a volunteer. Blindfold that person, and tell them they need to get from the sign that says “Mortal Birth” to the sign that says “Eternal Life.” Tell them there will be obstacles in the way but you will provide someone to help them get safely around the obstacles. (See additional instructions at link.)

Game: Put the game board and the Liahona on a display board for everyone to see. Choose a volunteer. Tell the volunteer that the object of the game is to get from the starting square to a square that says “The Promised Land.” There are two ways they can do this: they can try and guess which way to go, or they can check the Liahona for directions. Tell them it will take a little diligence and effort to get directions from the Liahona. They will have to look up a scripture and find the directions in the scripture. But if they try to guess which way to go, and it is the wrong guess, they will lose their next turn. (See additional instructions at link)

Friend February 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities” The Liahona guided Nephi’s family to the promised land (see 1 Nephi 18:21–23). Have one person hide an object. Everyone else takes turns asking the hider yes-or-no questions to find the object together.

For younger children: Have your child hide an object. Ask them to give you hints about where it is by saying “hotter“ when you get closer and “colder“ when you get farther away.

“Lehi and His Family Are Led through the Wilderness” Primary 4: Book of Mormon (Lesson Ideas) Attention Activity: Give the children each a piece of string 20 inches (50 cm) long. Have them hold one end of the string in their right hand and the other end in their left hand. Ask them to tie a knot in the string without letting go of the ends. If you do not have enough string, have one child do the activity in front of the class.

• Does this seem too hard or impossible to do?

Have the children try to tie a knot again, but this time have them fold their arms first and with their arms still folded have them pick up one end of the string with their right hand and the other end with their left hand. Ask them to hold onto the ends as they unfold their arms. Their string will be knotted. Collect the strings from the children. Point out that the children could tie the knot when you showed them how to do it. Tell the children that in the same way we all have challenges in our lives that might seem impossible to solve. If we do all we can and put our trust in Heavenly Father, he will help us find the answers.

I can choose to be faithful, humble, and obedient

2 Kings 5:1–15

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “2 Kings 2-7” Naaman had a hard time obeying when the prophet Elisha told him how to be cured of leprosy. Ponder how you can help the children understand the blessings that come from being obedient.

• Tell the story of Naaman (see 2 Kings 5:9–14; “Elisha Heals Naaman” in Old Testament Stories; see also the picture of Naaman in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Emphasize that at first Naaman did not want to wash in the Jordan River, even though Elisha told him that this would heal his disease. Tell about a time when you weren’t sure you wanted to do the right thing, and help the children think of their own examples. Then share how Naaman was blessed when he made the right choice.
• Read 2 Kings 5:13 to the children, and explain that Naaman’s servants helped him decide to obey the prophet Elisha. Help the children think of ways they could help their friends or family members listen to and obey the prophet.

2 Kings 5:1–15

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “2 Kings 2-7” Naaman wanted to be healed of leprosy, but he wasn’t expecting the simple instruction Elisha gave him: “Go and wash in Jordan seven times” (2 Kings 5:10). Consider how you could use this story to teach the children about faith in Jesus Christ, humility, and obedience.

• Write faith, humility, and obedience on the board, and ask the children what these words mean (see True to the Faith, 54–56, 86–87, 108–9). Invite the children to read 2 Kings 5:9–14. You could also show parts of the video “Naaman and Elisha” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How did Naaman show faith in the Lord, humility, and obedience? Why is it important for us to have these qualities?

• Ask the children to tell about a time when a friend helped them choose the right. Also share an experience of your own. Read together 2 Kings 5:10–13 to learn how Naaman’s servants helped him choose to obey the prophet. What can we do to help each other follow our prophet today?
• Invite the children to complete the activity page and share with a family member or friend something they learned from the story of Naaman in 2 Kings 5:1–15.

“Lesson 35: Naaman Is Healed,” Primary 6: Old Testament To strengthen each child’s desire to obey righteous leaders.

Friend July 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Naaman and the Miracle”

Story: Naaman had a sickness called leprosy. The prophet Elisha told him to wash seven times in the Jordan River to be healed. At first, Naaman didn’t want to. But when Naaman did what Elisha said, he was healed! (See 2 Kings 5.)

Song: “Quickly I’ll Obey” (Children’s Songbook, 197)

Activity: Make or draw a pretend river using rocks, sticks, chalk, or blankets. Then jump on your river seven times. Talk about how doing simple things God asks us to do can help us.

For the Strength of Youth July 2022 “Some Great Thing”

Friend July 1990 “Elisha and Naaman”

Old Testament Coloring Book “Elisha and Naaman”

Latter Day Kids “Elisha Heals Naaman-Obedience” Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Trust in God and His Prophet” Lesson ideas

Obedience to and Faith in Heavenly Father’s Will

Nephi was Obedient

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “1 Nephi 1-5” You and your children might enjoy role-playing 1 Nephi 3:2–7. Maybe you could pretend to be Lehi and ask your children to return to Jerusalem to get the brass plates. Invite them to respond in their own words as if they were Laman and Lemuel or Nephi. What are some things God has commanded us to do? (see pictures 103–15 in the Gospel Art Book or Mosiah 18:8–10 for ideas). How can we be like Nephi?

What can we learn from 1 Nephi 2:11–13; 3:5–7 about murmuring? What blessings come when we exercise faith?” Review how Laman and Lemuel murmured and talk about what it means to murmur. How does it make people around you feel when you murmur? How does it affect yourself and others when you don’t murmur? (Come Follow Me Kid “I Will Go and Do”)

Ensign January 2020 “Family Study Fun: Courageous Hot Potato” Nephi’s brothers Laman and Lemuel complained that the Lord required hard things (see 1 Nephi 3:5), Nephi said he would “go and do” whatever the Lord commanded (see 1 Nephi 3:7).

Have everyone sit in a circle. Give someone a small, soft object (beanbag, tennis ball, balled-up sock, etc.). Play “Nephi’s Courage” on the Sacred Music app (no. 120 in the Children’s Songbook) while family members pass the object around the circle. Pause the music at a random moment. Whoever is holding the object when the music stops will explain one faithful act they will “go and do” this week.

Discussion: What are some things the Lord has asked us to do that seem hard? How can we be more faithful in our responses to those commandments?

Friend January 2016 “Nephi was Obedient” Goal Card. I can be obedient like Nephi.

Children’s Songbook, Nephi’s Courage, 120

Verse One Visual Aids and Teaching Ideas

Lord commanded Nephi to go and get the plates
From the wicked Laban inside the city gates.
Laman and Lemuel were both afraid to try.
Nephi was courageous. This was his reply:

“I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.
I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.”

Verse Three Visual Aids and Teaching Ideas

The Lord gives us commandments and asks us to obey.
Sometimes I am tempted to choose another way.
When I’m discouraged, and think I cannot try,
I will be courageous, and I will reply:

“I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.
I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.”

Words and music: Bill N. Hansen Jr., b. 1952, and Lisa T. Hansen, b. 1958.

Heavenly Father can help me do difficult things.

1 Nephi 17:7–19; 18:1–4

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024

• Children love telling stories. You could invite them to help you tell the story of Nephi being commanded to build a boat (see 1 Nephi 17:7–19; 18:1–4; see also “Chapter 7: Building the Ship,” in Book of Mormon Stories, 21–22; or the video “The Lord Instructs Nephi to Build a Ship” [Gospel Library]). They could also sing together the second verse of “Nephi’s Courage” (Children’s Songbook, 120–21). What helped Nephi have courage when his brothers mocked him for trying to build the boat?

 The Red Crystal Tell the story using this puzzle.

Book of Mormon Scripture Figures: “Heavenly Father Commands Nephi to Build a Ship” (February 2012 Liahona and Friend)

35395, Children’s Songbook, Nephi’s Courage, 120

Verse Two Visual Aids and Teaching Ideas
The Lord commanded Nephi to go and build a boat.
Nephi’s older brothers believed it would not float.
Laughing and mocking, they said he should not try.
Nephi was courageous. This was his reply:
“I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.
I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.”

Verse Three Visual Aids and Teaching Ideas\

The Lord gives us commandments and asks us to obey.
Sometimes I am tempted to choose another way.
When I’m discouraged, and think I cannot try,
I will be courageous, and I will reply:

“I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.
I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.”

• Nephi did not know how to build a boat, so he relied on instruction from the Lord. After reading 1 Nephi 18:1 with you, your children could complete this week’s activity page. As they do, talk with them about how Heavenly Father can help us do hard things, just as He helped Nephi.

Friend February 2024 “Nephi Built a Ship”

Nephi was not a sailor. He had been reared in Jerusalem, an inland city, rather than along the borders of the Mediterranean Sea. It seems unlikely that he knew much about or had experience with the tools and skills necessary to build a ship. He may not have ever previously seen an oceangoing vessel. In essence, then, Nephi was commanded and instructed to build something he had never built before. (David A. Bednar, “Learning to Love Learning,” Ensign, Feb. 2010, 28)

Teachingldschildren.com “Lesson 6: Nephi Builds a Ship” Paper Boat Activity: Give each child a blank piece of paper. Show an example paper boat you folded before class. Tell the children you want them to make the same boat with their paper. Give them a couple of minutes to try and complete the activity. Ask if it was hard to do without instructions. Teach them how to build the boat using the instructions found at the link.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “1 Nephi 16-22” Have the children color the boat and then cut out the boat and the rectangle. Follow the directions to glue the boat together. Words on the handout/craft: Nephi built a boat. Heavenly Father can help me do difficult things too!

Ensign January 2020 “Family Study Fun” Shipbuilding 101: Before Nephi could start building a ship, he asked the Lord where he should go to find ore to make tools (see 1 Nephi 17:9–10). Gather items in your home to use as “shipbuilding materials” (for example: blocks or pots or sofa cushions). Hide the materials throughout the room. Give your family instructions on where the materials are hidden. Bring the materials to the shoreline (middle of the room) and give instructions on how to build a ship.

Discussion: Why did Nephi need help from the Lord? What are some hard things that the Lord asks us to do? What attributes did Nephi possess that made the ship a reality? How can we as a family develop those same attributes?

Friend March 2021 “Dear Friends” Ian built a ship like Nephi did.

Abraham Obeyed the Lord.

Old Testament Stories “Abraham and Isaac” Illustrations

Genesis 22:1–14

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 18–23” It was very difficult for Abraham to follow the commandment to sacrifice his son. Ponder how you can appropriately use this story to encourage the children to obey God even when it is hard or they don’t fully know the reasons for His commandments.

• Show a picture of Abraham and Isaac (see this week’s study outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families), and use it to tell the story of Abraham and Isaac (see also “Abraham and Isaac” in Old Testament Stories). Show a picture of Jesus Christ, and talk to the children about how the story of Abraham and Isaac can remind us of the sacrifice Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ made for us.

• Play a simple game that requires the children to follow directions. For example, the directions could lead to a picture of the Savior hidden in the classroom. What are some things Heavenly Father has asked us to do? Help the children understand that keeping His commandments will help us return to live with Him and Jesus Christ again.

Old Testament Coloring Book “Abraham and Isaac”

Jesus Christ Obeyed Heavenly Father, Even When It Was Hard.

Doctrine and Covenants 19:18–19, 23–24

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 18–19: “The Worth of Souls Is Great”

Show a picture of Jesus Christ suffering in Gethsemane (see this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Ask the children to tell you what they know about what is happening in this picture. Summarize in your own words what the Savior said in Doctrine and Covenants 19:18–19 about His suffering. Emphasize that suffering for our sins was the hardest thing anyone has ever done, but because Jesus loved His Father and us, He obeyed God’s will. How can we obey Heavenly Father?

Help the children think of simple actions that go along with phrases in Doctrine and Covenants 19:23.23 Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me. Read the verse several times while the children do the actions. Help them think of ways we can learn of Christ and listen to His words.

Ensign October 2019 “Safe from Satan’s Sting” Obedience to commandments forges a protective breastplate of righteousness. (Great lesson for a family home evening)

Friend August 2018 “For Parents of Little Ones” Obedience to safety rules help keep us safe. How to help small children follow safety rules.

Ask the children to read John 5:30 and complete this sentence: “I seek not mine own will, but …” How did Jesus Christ do the will of His Heavenly Father? How can we do Heavenly Father’s will?

John 5: 23 That all men should ^ahonour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that ^bhonoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.

Friend May 2022 “Why Do We Choose to Be Obedient?”

I can follow Jesus’s example by being obedient to Heavenly Father.

Luke 22:39–44

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Luke 22; John 18” Jesus showed obedience to the Father when He said, “Not my will, but thine, be done” (Luke 22:42). How can you help the children learn from Jesus’s example?

• Help the children memorize the phrase “Not my will, but thine, be done” (Luke 22:42) and discuss what it means. What can we do to obey Heavenly Father’s will?

• Help the children identify some reasons it is sometimes hard to do what Heavenly Father wants. What blessings have we received by being obedient to Heavenly Father, even when it was hard?

Friend September 2018 “Just Like Grandpa” William’s dad received a calling to preside over the sign language branch. William is sad he will have to leave his friends, but his mom helps him by telling him a story about his great grandfather Turner who sacrificed to obey the Lord.

For the Strength of Youth July 2022 “The Choice” Ben forgot to write a book report that was due the next day. He has to make a choice whether he will follow God or cheat and copy a book report from the internet.

• What blessings have we received by being obedient to Heavenly Father, even when it was hard?

Liahona February 2023 “Life Isn’t Fair–and That’s OK” But there are certain blessings we can expect as we keep the commandments. We are promised to always have the Spirit to be with us (see Moroni 4:3). And as we turn to the Lord in faith, we will be given strength to face the trials that inevitably come.²

We are promised true joy and peace (the kind that is not determined by our circumstances).³ And we are also promised the greatest gift of all—eternal life. As Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has said, “Your faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ will be rewarded more than you can imagine.”⁴

“… Because of Him, we can have peace in this world and be of good cheer. If we let Him, Jesus Christ will consecrate unfairness for our gain [see 2 Nephi 2:2]. He will not just console us and restore what was lost [see Job 42:10, 12–13; Jacob 3:1]; He will use the unfairness for our benefit.”⁶

“Happiness and Obedience” (August 2020 Liahona and Friend)
President Russell M. Nelson shares some blessings we receive when we try to keep all the commandments.

Ask the children if they can think of a time when they obeyed one of God’s commandments. How did they feel? Sing together a song about obedience, such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47), and identify blessings of obedience mentioned in the song. Discuss some of the things God has commanded us to do. How does God bless us when we keep those commandments?

I Can Obey with My Heart and Mind.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6”

Exodus 5:2. And Pharaoh said, Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go.

What might it mean for us to “know” the Lord? How do we come to know Him? (for example, see Alma 22:15–18). How does our relationship with Him affect our desire to obey Him? (see also John 17:3; Mosiah 5:13).

Doctrine and Covenants 64:33–34

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”

The Lord taught the Saints that to build Zion, they needed to give Him their hearts and willing minds. Consider how you will help the children begin to think about what this means for them.

• Read to the children from Doctrine and Covenants 64:34: “Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind.” Repeat this phrase a few times, pointing to your heart and head as you read those words, and invite the children to do the same. How can we give our hearts and minds to the Savior? (It might help to explain that our heart refers to our feelings and love and our mind refers to our thoughts.)

Friend June 2021 “One Peach at a Time” When Sister Eubanks was a child she went to a church farm to help pick peaches. Pretty soon she and her sister didn’t want to do it anymore because the peach fuzz was making their arms itch. Their mother explained that the peaches would be going to feed families who needed food. After that they stopped worrying about their itchy arms because they were helping to feed families who needed food! (They had a willing heart and mind.)

• Show the children some things that are made up of many small parts, like a puzzle or a rug. Help them think of other examples. Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 64:33. What does God want us to do to help Him accomplish His “great work”? What are the “small things” we can do that will help accomplish this work? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”

Friend June 2021 “Origami Hearts” Each fold could represent a small thing that brings about something great. If each fold isn’t done what happens? Write on the heart something your family or each individual could do to bring about Heavenly Father’s work?

What does Heavenly Father want your family to do to bring about His “great work”? Maybe it’s going to the temple, sharing the gospel with a neighbor, or overcoming contention. Perhaps each family member could collect small objects, like rocks or buttons or puzzle pieces, and use them to represent “small things” we can do every day to “[lay] the foundation” for God’s great work. As a family, pick one of these small things to work on this week. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”

• Ask the children to complete an action that requires two objects, but give them only one (for example, writing on the chalkboard without chalk or cutting a piece of paper with no scissors). Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 64:34 to find out what two things the Lord asks of us. Why do we need to give both our heart and mind to the Lord? How do we do this? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”

Latter Day Kids “Obedience” Lesson ideas

Friend February 2021 “For Older Kids” I know that obeying Heavenly Father is worth it because He always has a plan with good consequences in the end. I am grateful that Heavenly Father helps me do hard things. No matter how hard things get, I know I can always rely on Heavenly Father. Jayden T., age 10, New Mexico, USA (see photo)

• Sing a song about loving and following the Savior, such as “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75; especially verse 3). How do we show the Savior that we love Him? Share your feelings for Jesus Christ.

Helaman 10:11–12

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”

• Read Helaman 10:2, 11–12, and help the children understand that Nephi obeyed God. Invite the children to act out what Nephi did. For example, ask them to walk toward one side of the room (as if they are going home), stop, turn around, and walk toward the other side of the room (as if they are returning to teach the people). Help them see that Nephi wanted to obey the Lord even though he had to do something difficult.
• Help the children understand that sometimes Heavenly Father wants us to do something that is different from what we want to do, but we can obey Him like Nephi did. Share statements like “Sometimes I want to get angry, but Heavenly Father wants me to be … ,” and let the children finish the statements. Encourage the children to remember to stop and think about what Heavenly Father wants them to do and then do it.

A Disciple is Someone who Receives God’s Law and Obeys it.

Doctrine and Covenants 41:5

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 41–44”

• Write Doctrine and Covenants 41:5 on a piece of paper, leaving blanks where the word “disciple” should be. Ask the children to fill in the blanks, looking in Doctrine and Covenants 41:5 if they need help. What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? A disciple is someone who receives God’s law and obeys it. Share how you are striving to be a better disciple of Christ.
• After discussing Doctrine and Covenants 41:5, ask the children to think of laws we have received from the Lord. Invite them to take turns acting out obeying one of those laws while the rest of the class tries to guess what it is.
• Give each class member a strip of paper, and ask them to write on it one way they can be a better disciple. Invite each child to share what they wrote, and then tape the strips together to create a paper chain.

I Can Obey God’s Laws.

Doctrine and Covenants 42:2 Doctrine and Covenants 42

As the Church grew and members gathered in Kirtland, Ohio, the Lord revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith what He called His “law” and commanded the Saints to “hearken and hear and obey” it. How can you help the children understand that we are blessed when we are obedient? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 41–44”)

Doctrine and Covenant Stories “Chapter 18: The Law of the Church”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 41–44”

• Read Doctrine and Covenants 42:2, emphasizing the word “obey.” Give the children a few simple scenarios in which a child chooses to obey or disobey a law or rule. Ask the children to listen carefully and smile if the person in the story obeys and frown if the person disobeys. Share blessings you have received when you have obeyed God’s laws.
• Play a game by giving the children a rule to follow. For instance, you could tell them that they must raise their hands and be called on to answer questions. Then let them practice obeying by asking them questions and calling on those who raise their hands. What laws has God given us?
• Complete the activity page with the children, or sing a song about obeying God’s laws, such as “I Want to Live the Gospel” (Children’s Songbook, 148). Tell the children how obeying God’s laws has brought you happiness.

‘What are some examples of civil laws, and how do those laws benefit us? How do Heavenly Father’s laws or commandments bless us? Family members could draw pictures of themselves obeying God’s laws. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 41–44”

Friend January 2018 “What’s on Your Mind?” An explanation for why it matters that we keep the commandments. For example: How would it feel flying with a pilot who didn’t follow the rules of aviation? What about riding on a bus with a driver who didn’t stop at red lights? The commandments help keep us safe.

The Lord Can Help Me Have a Soft Heart.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 7–13” Pharaoh chose to harden his heart when the Lord told him to release the children of Israel. How can you inspire the children you teach to choose to have a soft heart so they are willing to serve the Lord and do His will?

• Bring to class one object that is hard, such as a rock, and another that is soft, such as a sponge. Read with the children a few verses describing how Pharaoh responded to the plagues sent by the Lord (see Exodus 8:28–32; 9:7), and ask the children which object best represents Pharaoh’s heart or attitude. What does it mean to have a soft heart? (see Mosiah 3:19).

Show the children the bowl of water, rock, and sponge. Ask what would happen if you put the sponge in the water, and then ask what would happen if you put the rock in the water. Just like the hard rock will not absorb water, a hard heart will not let direction from the Lord or others in. Just like a soft sponge will absorb water, a soft heart is open to the Lord’s direction and is humble and teachable.

Latter Day Kids “A Soft Heart” Lesson ideas

Latter Day Mommy “A Hardened Heart” Has a good list of the symptoms of a hard heart. Scroll down towards past the poem to find it.

• With the class, make a list of some actions that might show we have a hard heart (for example, fighting with a sibling or being unwilling to pray). How can we show the Lord we want to have soft hearts?
• The Sacrament Can Help Me Remember Jesus.

Heavenly Father wants us to “harden not [our] hearts.” (Jr)

Hebrews 3:8

Hebrews 3 describes the Israelites hardening their hearts and rejecting the Lord’s blessings. This can be a warning to all of us not to harden our hearts.

Bring to class something absorbent (like a sponge or a washcloth) and something hard (like a rock). Invite the children to touch the objects and describe how the objects feel. Put a few drops of water on each object, and point out that water soaks into the absorbent object better than into the rock. Explain that our hearts need to be soft and not hard so that we can accept Heavenly Father’s truths and His love [into our hearts]. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

The Red Crystal Sorting mat. Have pieces of soft fabric, cotton balls, soft feathers, sponges, tissues, etc, in a pile. In the same pile have small sticks, dice, small rocks, small pieces of sand paper, etc. Have the children sort through the pile and place them on the sorting map according to where they should go. Hard things in hard heart side, soft things in soft heart side.

Cut a heart shape out of a soft material, such as cloth, and a harder material, such as cardboard. Discuss with the children the difference between having a soft heart and having a hard heart. Share some examples from the scriptures of people who had soft hearts or hard hearts, such as Nephi, Laman, and Lemuel (1 Nephi 2:16–19); Paul (Acts 9:1–22); or Joseph Smith (Joseph Smith—History 1:11–20). As you share each example, invite the children to point to the soft heart or the hard heart. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

Latter Day Kids “A Soft Heart” Lesson ideas This site has a great object lesson about a marble and a plate and a blanket. The marble bounces of the plate but the blanket catches the marble. See more at link.

To receive Heavenly Father’s guidance and blessings, we must “harden not [our] hearts.” (Sr)

Hebrews 3:7–19

In Hebrews 3, the story of the Israelites in the wilderness is used to teach the importance of not hardening our hearts.

Ask the children to think of things that are hard and soft. (If possible, bring some examples to show them.) Read together Hebrews 3:8. What does it mean to have a hard heart? Why does God want us to have soft hearts? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

The Red Crystal Sorting mat. Have pieces of soft fabric, cotton balls, soft feathers, sponges, tissues, etc, in a pile. In the same pile have small sticks, dice, small rocks, small pieces of sand paper, etc. Have the children sort through the pile and place them on the sorting map according to where they should go. Hard things in hard heart side, soft things in soft heart side.

In your own words, share the story of the Israelites hardening their hearts against the Lord in the wilderness (see Numbers 14:1–12; Hebrews 3:7–19). Let the children act out the story. What will happen if we harden our hearts against the Lord and His gospel? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

The Red Crystal Has an acting script and face masks to use for the different people such as Moses below.

Invite the children to read Matthew 13:15; Hebrews 3:15; Mosiah 11:29; and Moses 6:27. Ask them to draw on the board the body parts mentioned in these verses. What does it mean to have spiritually dull ears, blind eyes, and hard hearts? How can we make sure that our ears, eyes, and hearts are ready to recognize the voice of the Spirit? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

The Red Crystal

Jesus Christ can help me change my heart.

Ezekiel 2:3–4; 3:7; 36:26–27

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezekiel 1–3; 33–34; 36–37; 47” Ezekiel used phrases like “new heart” and “new spirit” to teach about the kind of change the Savior brings into our lives.

• Ask the children to search Ezekiel 2:3–4; 3:7 for words that described the Israelites. Then invite them to read Ezekiel 36:26–27 to learn how the Savior offered to help them change. What words could describe the “new heart” and “new spirit” He gives us? (see, for example, Mosiah 3:19; 5:2).
• Ask the children to think of things “stiffhearted” or “hardhearted” people (Ezekiel 2:4; 3:7) might do. For example, how might they react to counsel from a parent or the prophet? What might they do when they see someone in need? How do we act differently

Show your family some stones as you discuss what it means to have a “stony heart.” Let them suggest words that describe the “new heart” and “new spirit” the Savior gives us (see Mosiah 3:19; 5:2).

Remembering the Lord brings obedience

Judges CHAPTER 2

An angel rebukes Israel for not serving the Lord—As a pattern of future events, a new generation arises that forsakes the Lord and serves Baal and Ashtaroth—The Lord is angry with the children of Israel and ceases to preserve them—He raises up judges to guide and lead them—The Canaanites are left in the land to test Israel.

Judges 2:10.

After Joshua died, the next generation of Israelites “knew not the Lord.” Talk with your family about how they know the Lord and “the works which he [has] done” for them. How will you ensure that this knowledge will be preserved for future generations? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16”)

How do we come to know the Lord? Through scripture study, prayer, sacrament, living the commandments. etc.

Friend June 2019 “The Sacrament Reminds Us of Jesus Christ” Ways to prepare for the sacrament before hand, what to do during the sacrament, and remembering Jesus and following him after the sacrament.

New Era March 2008 “How Can I Come to Know Christ?”

Friend November 2017 “Family Night Fun” Ways you can look for blessings every day.

I can be obedient to the Lord even if others are not.

Judges CHAPTER 4

Deborah, a prophetess, judges Israel—She and Barak deliver Israel from the Canaanites—Jael, a woman, slays Sisera, the Canaanite.

Judges 4:1–15

Although many of the Israelites fell away from the Lord, some remained true to Him and were able to help many others return to righteousness. How can you encourage the children to stay true to the Lord no matter what others are doing?

• Tell the children that during a time when the Israelites had been wicked, a righteous woman named Deborah and the commander of the Israelites’ army, Barak, delivered Israel from their enemies (see Judges 4:1–15). Read together Judges 4:14, and ask the children to find something Deborah said that showed that her faith in the Lord was strong. Then ask them to read Doctrine and Covenants 84:88 to find a principle that is also in Judges 4:14. Encourage them to share what the Lord’s promise “I will go before your face” means to them.
• Sing a song about obeying the commandments, such as “Choose the Right” (Hymns, no. 239) or “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). How can we stand for righteousness and obey the commandments even when others around us do not?

Old Testament Scripture Stories “Deborah the Prophetess”

Friend June 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Deborah and the Palm Tree

Story: Deborah was a righteous leader. She sat under a palm tree and listened to her people (see Judges 4:4–5). She helped them repent and follow God.

Song: “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61)

Activity: Psalm 92:12 says, “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree.” Make the palm tree on page 36. Talk about ways you can follow God.

The Lord Wants Me to Obey the Law of the Land.

Doctrine and Covenants 134:5

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 133-134

Young children often have rules to follow at home, at school, and elsewhere. You can help them understand that the Lord expects us to follow the rules and laws in our community and nation.

• Invite the children to play a simple game without following any rules, and then have them play it with rules. How do rules help us? Express your gratitude for the laws of the land.
• Help the children repeat the twelfth article of faith. Emphasize key words, like “obeying, honoring, and sustaining,” and talk with the children about what those words mean. Share with them why it is important to obey the law.

Although there are different forms of government around the world, the Lord wants us to “sustain and uphold the … governments in which [we] reside” (Doctrine and Covenants 134:5).

• Invite the children to list rules or laws they obey. What would life be like if no one obeyed these laws? Read Doctrine and Covenants 134:1–2 with the children, helping them understand any words or phrases they might not understand. Why does the Lord want us to have government and laws?
• Write each word or phrase from the eleventh and twelfth articles of faith on a separate slip of paper. Mix the papers up, and ask the children to work together to put them in the right order. How do we show that we believe what these articles of faith teach?

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Religious Freedom”

Friend November 2015

Friend November 2011 “Article of Faith 12”

Additional teaching ideas about obeying the law:

• “Lesson 31: I Will Obey the Law,” Primary 2: Choose the Right A“
• “Sharing Time: Obey the Law” (October 1995 Friend)
  Includes instructions for making a coat of arms.
• “What Laws Mean” (May 1976 Friend)
  A matching activity about different laws.
• “It’s the Law” (February 1997 Friend)
• Christopher and Sarah learn that Heavenly Father wants us to obey the law.
• Matt and Mandy” (March 2011 Friend)
• Boys invite Matt to spray graffiti and he declines.

Obeying Parents

Matthew 21:28–32

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19–20; John 12” Heavenly Father wants us to be obedient. The parable of the two sons is an opportunity to teach about the importance of obedience.

• Draw a picture of two sons on the board, and use the drawings as you recount the parable in Matthew 21:28–32. Which son did the right thing in the end? Ask the children to name things they can do to be obedient at home. Let them draw pictures of themselves doing one of those things.

• Invite the children to share experiences they have had with being obedient to their parents. How were they blessed for being obedient?

Friend August 2018 “Puddles and Blessings” Marcel doesn’t want to go on a hike in the rain with his mom and the Young Women. His mom  tells him something good might happen because there are blessings from obeying parents. At the hike he finds that his friend Noah is there and they have a blast playing in puddles together.

Friend August 2016 “Micah Obeys” Micah learns that he can help his family be happy when he obeys.

Heavenly Father wants me to obey my parents.(Jr)

Ephesians 6:1–3

Read Ephesians 6:1 to the class, or help one of the children read it. Help them think of times when they obeyed their parents. Ask them to share how they were blessed for obeying and how they felt when they obeyed. Why is it important to obey our parents? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Ephesians” )

The Red Crystal

Friend August 2015 “Fire” As a young boy, President Monson starts a fire with forbidden matches and he learns an important lesson about obedience.

Friend August 2017 “The Rocket Fiasco” Andrew’s friends convince him to try out his birthday rocket that he’s supposed to wait and do with his dad’s supervision. The rocket lands in the neighbors car and starts a fire.

Sing together a song about obedience, such as “Quickly I’ll Obey” (Children’s Songbook, 197). Let the children take turns naming something their parents ask them to do, and invite them to pretend to do that thing. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Ephesians” )

Show a picture of Jesus Christ being baptized (see Gospel Art Book, no. 35), and share how the Savior obeyed Heavenly Father by being baptized (see 2 Nephi 31:6–7). Share an experience in which you obeyed your parents and were blessed. Why does Heavenly Father want us to obey our parents? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Ephesians” )

Friend March 2023 “Jesus Christ Was Baptized”

New Era March 2017 “Why I Honor My Parents”

When I was about eight years old, I learned a very valuable lesson. It was early spring in the small Utah town where I lived, and some of my eight-year-old friends and I wanted to camp outside one night. My father said, “It’s still very cold at night. You’ll be miserable, and you’ll probably get sick.”

I explained that we thought everything would be fine. My parents let me make my own choice, and my friends and I decided to go ahead with the campout. As it got late the temperature dropped and it became very cold. Instead of having a great time, we were awake and miserable most of the night and, true to my father’s prediction, a day or two later I got sick.

As I was sick at home and missing fun activities, I remembered the advice my father had given me. Every bad consequence he mentioned had happened. I remember thinking, “Wow, my dad is really smart.” I came to realize, even at that young age, that my father had more experience and wisdom than me and if I were more careful in seeking and following his counsel it would make my life happier.

Your parents love you and want to help you.

Come Follow Me for Kids “New Testament Activities: Download #36” For the Perfecting of the Saints” Help them see the blessings that come from being obedient and remind them that they’ll be happier when they are obedient. Possible scenarios:
 Mom asks you to eat your healthy food at dinner before you eat a cookie. How would
 Dad asks you to turn the TV off and do your chores.
 Mom asks you to kneel down for family prayer.
 Dad asks you to sit quietly during scripture study time.
 Mom asks you to share your toys with your sister.
 Dad asks you to stay off of a busy road near your house.
 Mom asks you to be kind to your neighbors.
 Remind them that we are “Dear children” of God (Ephesians 5:1) and encourage them to also be
obedient to their Heavenly Father

Heavenly Father wants me to obey and honor my parents. (Sr)

Ephesians 6:1–3

Invite the children to read Ephesians 6:1–3 individually and identify phrases that stand out to them. Invite them to share these phrases and why they feel the phrases are important. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Ephesians” )

Explain that to “honor” someone can mean to show respect for them or to bring them happiness.

Friend November 2021 “Jesus Honored His Parents” As He grew up, Jesus obeyed His earthly parents. He loved and cared for them. Even when He was dying on the cross, He asked one of His disciples to take care of His mother. He also honored His Heavenly Father by keeping the commandments.

Help the children find and talk about examples of people in the scriptures who obeyed and honored their parents, such as the Savior (see Luke 2:42–52), Ruth (see Ruth 1), or Nephi (see 1 Nephi 3:1–8). Why is it important to obey and honor our parents? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Ephesians” )

Friend June 2022 “Ruth and Naomi”

Give each child a piece of paper with the word honor at the top. Discuss what the word means. Invite the children to write or draw on their papers something they can do to show that they honor their parents. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Ephesians” )

Explain that to “honor” someone can mean to show respect for them or to bring them happiness.

Friend September 2023 “I Can Follow Jesus by Honoring My Parents”

The Red Crystal