Love of God: Lesson Ideas

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Each of Us is of Great Worth to God.

Friend January 2022 “You Are a Beloved Child of God” “You are a beloved child of God. Please remember that fact. If you never forget that one pure truth, you can face any problem with faith and courage. I know that Heavenly Father watches over you. He loves you very much, and so do I.” (President Russel M. Nelson)

See “Allegory of the Olive Tree” The Lord does everything he can to reclaim his people.

Friend June 2021 “Bright Idea”

Friend May 2022 “Gathering Israel” Cut out the pieces, Glue to heavy paper or craft sticks, and put the puzzle together.

Doctrine and Covenants 18:10–12

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

Many people struggle with feelings of low self-worth; others are unkind toward people who are different from them. The powerful message of Doctrine and Covenants 18:10 can change how we view ourselves and people around us.

Repeat verse 10 with the children, this time replacing “souls” with the children’s names.

Help the children think of things that people consider valuable. Then let the children take turns looking in a mirror, and as they do, tell each child that he or she is a child of God and of great worth. Testify that to Heavenly Father, they are more valuable than all the things they thought of earlier.

  • Ask each child to write his or her name on a piece of paper and pass the papers around the room. Invite them to write on each paper they receive something they like about that person. Encourage them to be kind and thoughtful in their comments. Then help the children read Doctrine and Covenants 18:10–12, and invite them to share what they learn about how God feels about us. Explain that we are all of great worth to God because we are His children.
  • Show the children something that is very valuable to you. How do we treat things that are valuable to us? Ask a child to read Doctrine and Covenants 18:10. How can we show other people that “the worth of [their] souls is great” in our sight?

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

Each family member could read Doctrine and Covenants 18:10–13 and substitute his or her name in place of the words “soul,” “souls,” and “all men.” You could then discuss how these verses help us understand our worth to the Father and the Son (see Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–19).

Liahona February 2021 “Your Worth is Great” Family Study Fun: Circle of Worth

Circle of Worth: Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer were counseled to remember that “the worth of souls is great in the sight of God” (Doctrine and Covenants 18:10). As we help others to see their own worth, we bring them nearer to Christ while becoming closer to Him ourselves.

  1. Invite family members to sit in a circle.
  2. Each person will take a turn standing in the middle of the circle.
  3. Everyone sitting in the circle will tell the middle person, “You matter to me because ___________,” and share specific details of why that person is of worth to them.
  4. The middle person will then choose their own statement of personal worth: “I matter to God and myself because __________.”

Discussion: Why is it important to remember our own worth as well as the worth of those around us? If Christ were in the circle, what would He say about us? Read Doctrine and Covenants 18:10–13 and discuss what Christ went through because of how much He loves and values us.

Friend February 2021 “Scripture Time Fun”

Friend February 2021 “Scripture Time for Little Ones” For Doctrine and Covenants 18–19: Help your little ones say, “I am important to Heavenly Father.” Then sing “I Am a Child of God” (Children’s Songbook, 2) and have your children give themselves a hug when they sing the words, “I am a child of God.”

For additional teaching ideas see “Child of God

Friend July 2021 “Scripture Time Fun” Paper Lilies

  • Sing “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75).
  • Jesus said to “consider the lilies of the field” (Doctrine and Covenants 84:82). If Heavenly Father takes care of the flowers, we can trust that He will take care of us! (See Doctrine and Covenants 84:83–85.)
  • Make a paper lily to remind you of Heavenly Father’s love and care. Trace your hand on a piece of paper and cut it out. Roll the hand shape into a cone. Then roll each “finger” around a pencil to curl the paper outward for the petals. If you want, you can tape your flower to a stick to make a stem.

Friend November 2020 “We are Moving Forward”

Friend February 2017

Read 1 John 4:11 to the children, and sing a song about God’s love, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228). Ask a few children to share how they know that Heavenly Father loves them. After each answer, invite the children to hug themselves and say, “God is love, and God loves me.”(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Friend November 2023 “Bright Idea”

How do We Know Heavenly Father Loves Us?

Friend June 2024 “The Scripture Hunt” Calan’s Mom and Dad always told him that Heavenly Father loved him. His parents showed him love in lots of ways, like giving him hugs. But he had never gotten a hug from Heavenly Father, so how did he know it was true. His Mom and Dad said the Book of Mormon told about things Heavenly Father wants us to know, so he decided to search there to find the answer to his question. After many searches in the Book of Mormon he found a scripture that Nephi said, “I know that he loveth his children” (1 Nephi 11:17). Calan felt a powerful feeling in his heart as he read it. It felt like a big hug. Heavenly Father did love him!

Friend March 2022 “How do We Know Heavenly Father Loves Us?”

The Beautiful Earth that was Created for Us.

Friend March 2023 “Margo and Paolo” Seeing Heavenly Father’s amazing creations (such as a meteor shower) helps Margo and Paulo feel God’s love.

Friend November 2023 “Bright Idea”

We Feel Their Love When We Pray

Ensign October 2017 When we read the scriptures or pray, we can feel how much Heavenly Father and Jesus love us. Color in a heart each time you pray or read your scriptures. What else can you do to feel close to Heavenly Father and Jesus?

The Lord Knows Who I Am and Loves Me.

Doctrine and Covenants 66

William E. McLellin had five specific questions for the Lord. Joseph Smith received answers to them in a revelation even though he did not know what William’s questions were. This experience could help you teach the children that God is aware of them and can answer their questions.

  • Tell about how the Lord answered William E. McLellin’s questions through a revelation from the Prophet Joseph Smith (see Doctrine and Covenants 66, section heading). Testify that Heavenly Father knows us and wants to help us. Ask the children to share how they know that God loves them.
  • Read to the children Doctrine and Covenants 66:4. Tell the children about a time when the Lord showed you what He wanted you to do. Read the verse again, this time inserting the name of one of the children. Repeat for each of the children.
Friend April 2018 (recopy image-blurry)

Friend March 2018 “Heavenly Father Listens” Elder Clayton felt the love of God as a teen when he prayed about some worries. Heavenly Father loves us and is interested in our lives just like a parent would be. (Activity page included: Find the hearts in the room of the girl who is praying.)

Heavenly Father and Jesus know me by name.

Luke 19:1–10

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19–20; John 12” As you read about the Savior’s interaction with Zacchaeus, what messages do you find that may bless the children you teach?

  • Show a picture of Zacchaeus in the Sycamore Tree (in this outline or at ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Help the children find Zacchaeus and say his name. Create actions for the children to do as you tell the story of Zacchaeus and Jesus—for example, standing on their toes to see over a crowd or pretending to climb a tree. Explain that the Savior saw Zacchaeus and called him by name. Testify that the Savior also knows each of the children and their names.

Latter Day Kids “The Story of Zacchaeus” Lesson ideas

  • Bring an empty picture frame to class, or make one out of paper. Invite each child to take a turn holding the frame around his or her face while the rest of the class says, “Heavenly Father and Jesus know [child’s name].”
  • Sing together a song about Heavenly Father’s love, such as “I Am a Child of God” (Children’s Songbook, 2–3). Help the children listen for things that help them know Heavenly Father loves them.

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ know me and love me.

Psalm 139:1–3, 23

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 Throughout our lives, we need to be reminded that Heavenly Father and Jesus know us personally. Psalm 139 can help you teach the children that They know them and love them.

  • Make short lists of things you know about each child. As you read the lists one at a time, ask the children to guess who you are describing. Read Psalm 139:1–3, and help the children understand words they might not know. Testify that Heavenly Father and Jesus know them very well—They know their names, what makes them happy and sad, and things they do well.

Friend August 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

Guess Who

Song: “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75)

Activity: Write each person’s name on a small piece of paper and put it in a box or bowl. One person pulls out a name. Each person takes a turn to ask yes or no questions until someone guesses the name. Talk about how our Heavenly Father knows us—our name, what we like to do, and everything about us.

“Heavenly Father Loves Me, and He Has a Plan for Me” (January 2013 Liahona and Friend)Nathaniel knows his grandma loves him because she knew the things he liked. His grandma explained that was someone else who had known him and loved him longer than anyone, before he even came to earth. Heavenly Father

  • Read Psalm 139:23, and invite the children to put their hands on their hearts when you say “heart” and to touch their heads when you say “thoughts.” Share a time when you felt God knew your heart and your thoughts.

Friend April 2016 “Your Future Home” Story of President Eyring’s desire for a home full of charity that he wanted for his family when he grew up. He didn’t talk to anyone about those feelings, but when he got his patriarchal blessing the patriarch described what he had been yearning for. It was not secret, because God knew.

"Your Future Home"

Heavenly Father and Jesus love me.

Jeremiah 31:3

Feeling the “everlasting love” of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ will help the children you teach draw nearer to Them.

  • Show the children some objects (or pictures of objects) that last a long time and some that do not, such as a metal coin and a piece of fruit. Ask the children which one will last longer, and discuss why some things last longer than others. Read Jeremiah 31:3, and help the children understand that the love Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have for them is “everlasting.”
  • Ask the children to share how Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ show Their “lovingkindness” for them (Jeremiah 31:3). To give the children ideas, sing a song about Their love for us, such as “I Feel My Savior’s Love” or “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75, 228–29). If possible, show pictures of things mentioned in the song. How do we feel when we think about the love of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?

Friend December 2023 “How Do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ Help Me?”

Heavenly Father and Jesus love us even when we sin and want to help us repent

Mark 2:15–17Luke 7:36–50

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 8; Mark 2–4; Luke 7”The accounts in Mark 2:15–17 and Luke 7:36–50 can help the children understand that Jesus Christ loves us even when we sin. He wants to help us repent and draw close to Him.

A paralyzed man (“sick of the palsy” as used in this account means he was paralyzed)

Watch the video “Jesus Forgives Sins and Heals a Man Stricken with Palsy,” available at ChurchofJesusChrist.org, from time code 0:00 to 1:07.

New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “Mark 2:1–12” Some of the people present at this event questioned the Savior’s authority to forgive sins. Read Mark 2:6–12, looking for what the Savior did to demonstrate His authority to forgive. The phrase “Son of man” in verse 10 refers to Jesus Christ being the Son of “Man of Holiness,” who is God the Father (see Moses 6:57). You may also want to continue watching the video “Jesus Forgives Sins and Heals a Man Stricken with Palsy” from time code 1:07 to 2:57.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, then of the First Presidency, testified of the Savior’s power to heal spiritual illness.

Sometimes spiritual illness comes as a result of sin or emotional wounds. …Even the deepest spiritual wounds—yes, even those that may appear to be incurable—can be healed.

My dear friends, the healing power of Jesus Christ is not absent in our day. The Savior’s healing touch can transform lives in our day just as it did in His. If we will but have faith, He can take our hands, fill our souls with heavenly light and healing, and speak to us the blessed words, “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk” [ John 5:8 ].

(Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Bearers of Heavenly Light,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2017, 78)

“Friend August 2013 “Friend August 2013 “Jesus Heals a Sick Man” By Margo Mae

Friend August 2013 “Jesus Heals a Man Taken with a Palsy” Coloring Page

Friend November 2009 “Jesus Heals a Sick Man”

Latter Day Kids “I Can Show Compassion for Others” Lesson ideas

  • Write How does Jesus feel about sin? and How does Jesus feel about us when we sin? on the board. Ask the children to think about these questions as they read together Mark 2:15–17 and then share their answers. (You may want to read together “Publican” in Guide to the Scriptures [scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org].–In ancient Rome, a collector of taxes for the government. Publicans were generally hated by the Jews. Some publicans readily accepted the gospel) Why is it important to know that Jesus loves us, even though we aren’t perfect? How can knowing this help us when we need to repent?
  • Show a picture of the Savior (such as one in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families), and ask the children what words they would use to describe Him. Invite them to find words that describe Him in Psalm 86:5, 13, 15. If needed, help them define these words. What could we say to a friend who feels that God is angry at them when they sin?
  • Sing with the children a song that you feel will help them understand the Savior’s forgiving nature, such as “I Stand All Amazed” (Hymns, no. 193). Share your testimony that Jesus Christ wants to forgive us.

Friend January 2023 “What’s on Your Mind?” Jesus Christ loves you perfectly. If you make a wrong choice, He still loves you. And He can help you repent and make things right again. He is always waiting for you to follow Him. He believes in you! (See more at link.)

 If someone were to stray off a path, fall, and become injured, what would be some of the possible symptoms and effects of being injured? Answers might include: pain, shock, bruises, scrapes, cuts, bleeding, broken bones, sprain, concussion, etc.

Just like a person would suffer the effects of being injured, a person who had sinned would also suffer the consequences and results of that sin. What are some of the consequences that can occur because of sin? Answers might include: guilt, loss of the Spirit’s help and guidance, possible loss of freedom, loss of other’s trust, damaged relationships, possible loss of good health, loss of inheritance in the kingdom of God, etc.

Show the children some medical items and ask what they are used for. (To help treat and heal physical injuries and sickness.)

Who is the master physician that can heal our spiritual wounds, small or large? (Jesus Christ) The Savior said: ‘Will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you? … If ye will come unto me ye shall have eternal life.’”

  • A few days before class, invite one of the children and a family member to come to class prepared to share the account in Luke 7:36–50. They could draw pictures depicting parts of the story to show the class. Discuss with the children what the Lord might want us to learn from this story.

Jesus Loves Me

Friend June 2023 “Have You Seen Jesus?”

Friend June 2024 “I Know Jesus Loves Me” What things remind you of Jesus Christ’s love?

Friend October 2023 “I Feel My Savior’s Love” A girl feels the Savior’s love during singing time. Her mother tells her that the warmth and love she feels in her heart is the Holy Ghost helping her feel the Savior’s love.

Friend March 2024 “Jesus is Our Savior” When do you feel Jesus’s love?

Friend February 2017 “For Parents of Little Ones” Ideas for teaching little ones about Jesus.

Friend February 2017 “Jesus Loves Me” Action poem

Friend January 2023 “What’s on Your Mind?” Jesus Christ loves you perfectly. If you make a wrong choice, He still loves you. And He can help you repent and make things right again. He is always waiting for you to follow Him. He believes in you! And so do we.

Friend March 2023 “What Would Jesus Do If He Were Here Today?” From a talk by Elder Uchtdorf

Jesus wants little children to come to Him so He can bless them.

Mark 10:13–16

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 19–20; Mark 10; Luke 18” This account provides an opportunity to help children feel how much Jesus loves them.

  • In your own words, share the account in Mark 10:13–16. You might also show the video “Suffer the Little Children to Come unto Me” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Help the children think of times when they have felt Jesus’s love for them. Bear your testimony to the children that Jesus loves them and wants to bless them.

Latter Day Kids “Let the Children Come Unto Me” Lesson ideas

Friend May 2019 “Jesus Blesses the Children”

Friend September 2017 “Jesus is Kind” Jesus blesses the children.

  • Display the picture Christ and the Children (Gospel Art Book, no. 47). Help the children imagine what it might be like to be one of the children sitting next to Jesus in the picture. Invite the children to share how they feel about Jesus.
  • Let the children draw pictures of themselves being blessed by Jesus (see Mark 10:16 and this week’s activity page).

New Testament Coloring Books “Jesus Blessed the Children”

Jesus Christ is a Perfect Friend

Doctrine and Covenants 84:77

How can you help the children know that the Savior loves us even more than a dear friend does?

  • Display a picture of the Savior as you read Doctrine and Covenants 84:77. Invite the children to point to the picture of the Savior every time they hear the word “friends.” Explain that when we try to keep the commandments, we show Jesus that we love Him. Share what it means to you to have Jesus as your friend.
  • Help the children list some things they can do to show their friends that they love them. What did Jesus do to show us that He is our friend? What can we do to show the Savior that we are His friends? Sing together a song about Jesus, such as “Jesus Is Our Loving Friend” (Children’s Songbook, 58).

Ensign July 2010 “Jesus Christ, Our Perfect Friend”

Friend May 2022 “For Older Kids”

Jesus Loves Me and Wants to Help Me

Come Follow Me Kids “I Will Prepare the Way Before You” I Have Graven Thee Upon the Palms of My Hands – Review who Nephi was. Explain that Nephi shared a scripture about Jesus’s hands. Show picture of the mark in His hands after He was crucified (below). Read 1 Nephi 21:15-16. To help them visualize that we are graven on the palms of Christ’s hands, have each person write their names on the hand in the picture below. You can either give each person their own small picture or print up the big one for everyone to write on together. Remind them that Heavenly Father and Jesus love us, remember us, and want to help us in life. They want to lead us to good things.

Heavenly Father sent Jesus Christ to earth because He loves me.

1 Nephi 11:16–33

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “1 Nephi 11-15” To teach Nephi about God’s love, an angel showed Nephi events from the Savior’s life. You could do the same for your children—give them pictures of the events Nephi saw in 1 Nephi 11:20, 24, 27, 31, and 33 (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 3035394257). As you read these verses, help your children find the picture that matches it. What do we learn about Jesus Christ from these verses and pictures? (Or, as you read these verses, ask the children to hold up their picture when they hear the verse that matches it. Or for older children: Invite the children to match verses from 1 Nephi 11:16–33 with pictures. Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “1 Nephi 11-15”)

Singing a song like “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34–35) could help your children feel God’s love. After you sing, ask your children what they learn from the song. What else do we learn about God’s love from 1 Nephi 11:22–23?

“Condescension” means the voluntary descent from a position of rank or dignity. One truth we can learn is that the condescension of God demonstrates His love for us. (Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024))

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “1 Nephi 11-15” Tell the children about some of the things Nephi learned that Jesus Christ would do during His life (see 1 Nephi 11:16–33), and show them pictures of some of these events (see, for instance, Gospel Art Book, nos. 4146474956575859). Share what the Savior has done for you. Show pictures to help the children think of ways we can share God’s love (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 109110115).

Friend January 2020 “Come, Follow Me for Little Ones” Read 1 Nephi 11:24 together and help your little ones say, “Jesus came to earth because He loves me.” Help your little one flip through copies of the Friend and draw a heart next to each picture of Jesus. This would be a great time to share your feelings about the Savior.

Heavenly Father loves me, so He gave me a Savior.

For God So Loved the World Video

John 3:16

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “John 2–4”

  • Ask the children to complete sentences like this one: “Because my parents love me, they …” Read John 3:16. Then help each child repeat John 3:16, replacing the words “the world” with his or her own name. Help the children notice what this verse says Heavenly Father did because He loves us. Invite the children to draw a picture of Jesus. Let them share their drawings with each other and express their love for the Savior.

Friend March 2022 “How do We Know Heavenly Father Loves Us?”

Video “For God So Loved the World”

  • Sing together a song about Jesus, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34–35). Let the children hold up a picture of Jesus every time they sing a word like “Son,” “Jesus,” or “Savior.”

Heavenly Father loves me, so He sent His Son.

John 3:16–17

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “John 2–4” How can you help the children know that Jesus Christ was sent to earth as an expression of Heavenly Father’s love?

  • Ask the children to draw a picture of their favorite gift and the person who gave them that gift. Then ask a child to read John 3:16. What gift did Heavenly Father give us? How does this gift show His love?

Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said, “There is no greater evidence of the infinite power and perfection of God’s love than is declared by the Apostle John [in John 3:16]. … Think how it must have grieved our Heavenly Father to send His Son to endure incomprehensible suffering for our sins. That is the greatest evidence of His love for each of us!” (“Love and Law,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, 26).

  • Ask the children to find answers to the question “Why did Heavenly Father send us Jesus Christ?” as they read John 3:16–17 or sing or listen to “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34–35).

If we believe in Jesus Christ, which includes repenting of our sins and obeying His word, we can have everlasting life through His Atonement

Friend April 2017 “Family Night Fun” Object lesson to explain the Atonement.

  • Pour some salt onto a plate. This represents us before we sin.

  • Now sprinkle pepper on the salt. The pepper is like sin. It keeps us away from Heavenly Father.

  • Rub the spoon on a towel. Then move it slowly above the salt and pepper. The pepper will stick to the spoon. Jesus’s Atonement lets us repent and get rid of our sins

Friend July 2020 “What’s on Your Mind”

Latter Day Kids “Heavenly Father Sent His Son” Lesson ideas

God Loves All His Children

Heavenly Father loves all His children.

Acts 10:34–35

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Acts 10-15” A fundamental truth that even young children can understand is that everyone is a child of God and that He loves all of His children.

Show the picture Christ and Children from around the World (Gospel Art Book, no. 116) as you read Acts 10:34–35. Explain that in Peter’s time some people believed that the blessings of the gospel were not for everyone. But Peter learned that God loves all of His children and He wants all of them to learn the gospel.

  • Friend May 2022 “Gathering Israel” Gathering Israel means helping bring God’s children back to Him. How can you help people come closer to God? Cut out the pieces, Glue to heavy paper or craft sticks, and put the puzzle together.

Invite the children to draw a picture of themselves. As they share their pictures, talk about something you love about each child. Share your testimony that Heavenly Father loves each of them and all of His children, no matter what they look like or where they are from.

The Red Crystal

Sing with the children a song about loving others—for example, “I’ll Walk with You” (Children’s Songbook, 140–41).

Invite the children to share ways that they can show love to everyone, just as Jesus did.

Friend March 2020

Point to each child one by one and say, “Heavenly Father loves [name].” Let the children take turns pointing to one another and saying this phrase.

Latter Day Kids “Heavenly Father Love All His Children” Lesson ideas

“God is no respecter of persons.”

Acts 10:34–3515:6–11

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Acts 10-15” The children you teach need to understand that Heavenly Father loves all His children, no matter what they look like, where they are from, or what choices they make.

  • Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Acts 10-15” For generations, the Jews had believed that being of “the seed of Abraham,” or a literal descendant of Abraham, meant that a person was accepted and chosen by God (see Luke 3:8). They considered anyone else an “unclean” Gentile who was not accepted by God. In Acts 10, what did the Lord teach Peter about who “is accepted with him”? (Acts 10:35). What evidence do you find in this chapter that Cornelius’s life was acceptable to the Lord? Ponder what is meant by the statement “God is no respecter of persons” (verse 34; see also 1 Nephi 17:35). Why is it important to you to know this truth?

Ask the children if they can tell what someone is like just by looking at them or guessing where they are from. According to Acts 10:35, how does God determine if someone is “accepted with him”?

Free Stock photos by Vecteezy

Read Acts 10:34–3515:6–11 with the children. Explain that in Peter’s time, Jews believed that God did not accept people who weren’t Jews (these people were called Gentiles). But God taught Peter that God loves all of His children, both Jews and Gentiles. Sing together “I Am a Child of God” (Children’s Songbook, 2–3). Invite the children to substitute each other’s names for words like I or me.

Invite the children to share something unique about someone else in the class. Explain that the statement “God is no respecter of persons” means that Heavenly Father loves all His children, and because He loves them, He wants all of His children to hear the gospel.

  • Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Acts 10-15”Like the Jews who looked down on those who were not of the seed of Abraham, do you ever catch yourself making unkind or uninformed assumptions about someone who is different from you? How can you overcome this tendency? It might be interesting to try a simple activity for the next few days: Whenever you interact with someone, try to think to yourself, “This person is a child of God.” As you do this, what changes do you notice in the way you think about and interact with others?
  • Can you name an Apostle who was born in Europe?
  • Can you name an Apostle from South America?
  • Can you name an Apostle whose parents came from Sweden and Finland?
  • Can you name an Apostle whose family originally came from China?
  • We may come from different places, but God loves us all.
  • Discussion: In what ways might we be the same or different from other people? Does God love us based on what we look like or where we come from? Review the story of Peter and Cornelius found in Acts 10. What did they learn about judging others? What characteristics are important to the Lord?

Additional Teaching Ideas: “Lesson 40: Peter and Cornelius,” Primary 7: New Testament


Family Members Support & Help Each Other

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Friend September 2023 “Lots of Ways to Say “I Love You” “Trina’s brother had been struggling with anxiety and depression and had to come home early. She prayed about what she could do for him. She decided she would show him she cared for him and loved him. She used chalk to write a message for him on the sidewalk. She hid nice notes around the house. She helped her siblings make a sign. It said, “Welcome home, Elder Dawson! We love you!”

I can serve my family.

Esther CHAPTER 2

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Esther” Ahasuerus seeks a new queen—Mordecai presents Esther—Esther pleases the king and is chosen as queen—Mordecai exposes a plot against the king.

Esther 2:5–7

When Esther’s parents died, her cousin Mordecai took care of her. You can use their experience as an opportunity to talk about serving members of our families.

  • On the board, draw figures that represent Esther, her parents, and her cousin Mordecai. Explain that Esther’s parents died, so Esther needed someone to take care of her. Read Esther 2:7 to the children, and ask the children to listen for what Mordecai did. Help the children think of needs their family members might have that the children can help with.

What can we learn from Mordecai’s example about helping family members in times of trial? Who in our family needs our support? Make a plan to help them.

  • Invite some of the children to act out something kind they could do to serve someone in their families, and ask the other children to guess what they are doing. Invite them to talk about things they do to bless their families, and tell about some of the things you do.
  • Sing a song about helping our families, such as “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198). Share your testimony that helping our families makes us happy.

Friend March 2018 “Matt and Mandy” Matt makes a super hero costume and secretly helps his mom.

Friend September 2020 “Bedtime Brothers” Kyler helps his brother get to sleep.

Friend July 2020 “Helping a Sleepy Sister” Berrett noticed his sister was tired from studying late and he decided to be like Jesus and help her. He made her breakfast and lunch and wrote her a note saying he loved her.

Friend March 2019 “Show and Tell” My sister has cerebral palsy and can’t talk or walk. I serve her each day by feeding her, playing with her, and making her laugh. I know when I serve her, I’m serving Heavenly Father. (Ensign T., age 10, Utah, USA)

Friend January 2022 “Helping Like Jesus” Story about how the general primary president, Sister Johnson, helped her mother by helping with her siblings.

Friend May 2019 “Kindness at the Carnival” A boy is looking forward to playing with his friends, but then his sister comes home upset because she doesn’t have any real friends and nobody will go with her to school carnival. The brother wants to help, so he volunteers to go with her, and tells her that she is his friend too.

Friend June 2018 “Showing Her Love” A girl named Love from Nigeria helps her family in many ways. (Link includes photos.)

Friend April 2018 “Prayer in the Checkout Line” Eli helps his mom with his fussy siblings at the store. He also says a prayer for her when he sees how their fussiness is making things hard for her

Friend January 2018 “Adam’s Big Green Cast” Matthew’s little brother broke his leg and has to wear a cast that doesn’t let him move. Matthew helps his brother feel better by playing with him and finding things Adam can do without moving.

Friend October 2017 “Helping Mrs. Brewster” Ryan helps his brother Jackson rake the neighbor’s leaves.

Friend October 2017  “I Like to Help” Poem – A boy helps his family members during the week.

Friend March 2022 Danial is helping his mom in the garden. Find the objects in the picture. How do you help at home?

Friend May 2017 “That’s My Brother” Eric doesn’t have any friends yet and doesn’t like going to recess, but his brother comes and helps him find a friend during recess.

Friend May 2017 “The Gecko Rescue” Andrea sews up a hole in her mom’s gecko beanbag so her mom wouldn’t be sad.

Story Activiy: Children can draw a line to a number on the gecko for every way they mention that they can help and serve family members.

Friend February 2017 “Double Happy” Lily helps her little brother, Sam, feel comfortable in Primary, but her parents want her to let Sam’s teacher do that now so Lily can go to her class. Lily obeys even though she’s worried about Sam, and they both have a great time in Primary.

Friend Novepmber 2016 “Big Sister Madelyn” Madelyn’s mother is sick, so Madelyn helps with the baby. Also an activity to find what toys are okay for the baby.

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Friend October 2016 “Brave Enough” Christine asks her brother for help when she gets scared of a noise at her window.

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Friend June 2015  “The Funny Face Fix” Ben helps his sister feel happy by making funny faces.

Friend September 2015 “Secret Helpers”

Friend September 2015

Friend January 1987 “The rush-rush Day” Jarod sacrificed what he wanted to do so his family members could get the things done they needed to.


Doctrine and Covenants 84

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Latter Day Kids “What is the Priesthood? “ Lesson ideas to go with video

Priesthood Ordinances Help Me Prepare to Live with Heavenly Father Again.

Doctrine and Covenants 84:4–5, 18–28, 30

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 84”

Do the children you teach know the purposes of the priesthood? In Doctrine and Covenants 84, the Lord reveals one purpose: to help us return to Heavenly Father. (To learn more, see Gospel Topics, “Priesthood,” topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.)

  • Read Doctrine and Covenants 84:20, and ask the children to stand when they hear the word “ordinances.” To help them understand what an ordinance is, display pictures of several priesthood ordinances, such as Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–8, and ask the children to describe what is happening in each picture (see also Guide to the Scriptures, “Ordinances,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Explain that Heavenly Father has given us these ordinances to help us return to live with Him.
  • Let the children color the activity page. As they do, explain the various priesthood ordinances shown on the page and why you are grateful for those ordinances.

As they get older, the children you teach will be able to participate in more priesthood ordinances, including baptisms and confirmations for the dead in the temple. How can you help them understand the purposes and power of priesthood ordinances?

  • Write Aaronic Priesthood and Melchizedek Priesthood on the board. Read together Doctrine and Covenants 84:18, 26–28, 30, and help the children list truths they learn about the Aaronic Priesthood from these verses. Then read together Doctrine and Covenants 84:18–25, and list truths about the Melchizedek Priesthood.
  • Invite the children to list the priesthood ordinances they have participated in or witnessed, such as baptism, confirmation, priesthood blessings, or the sacrament. Ask them to share their experiences with these ordinances. Read Doctrine and Covenants 84:20 together (help them understand unfamiliar words). Why does the Lord invite us to participate in ordinances? How does the priesthood help us return to Heavenly Father?
  • Create a puzzle out of a picture of a temple. Read with the children Doctrine and Covenants 84:5, and ask them to listen for what the Lord commanded the Saints to build. Give each child a piece of the puzzle, and ask them to share something they can do to prepare to enter the temple.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 84”

After reading about how Moses received his priesthood authority, a priesthood holder in your family or a ministering brother could share his experience of being ordained to a priesthood office. If possible, he could share and discuss his priesthood line of authority. Why is it important that we can trace priesthood authority in the Church today back to the authority of Jesus Christ? To request a priesthood line of authority, send an email to lineofauthority@ChurchofJesusChrist.org.Doctrine and Covenants 84:20–21.

When has your family experienced “the power of godliness” being manifested through an ordinance such as baptism or the sacrament? Perhaps you can talk about how these ordinances bring God’s power into our lives. You could also display a picture of a temple and discuss how the ordinances of the temple give us additional power to become like the Savior. You may want to sing a song about the priesthood, such as “The Priesthood Is Restored” (Children’s Songbook, 89), and discuss what this song teaches about the priesthood.

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Priesthood Authority”

 Many different ordinances are performed throughout a person’s life, some are for comfort and guidance, but others are essential to salvation. (Do the activity below to identify the ordinances and the saving ordinances.) Hint: Ordinances are sacred ceremonies or acts that are performed by the proper priesthood authority.  

Click on image to see a lesson that explains what the priesthood is and how priesthood holders got this authority to perform ordinances. It also includes a fun activity at the end of the lesson.

For additional teaching ideas see Priesthood and Ordinances and Resources for Teaching Children “Priesthood”

I am Jesus’s Friend when I Follow Him.

Doctrine and Covenants 84:77

How can you help the children know that the Savior loves us even more than a dear friend does?

  • Display a picture of the Savior as you read Doctrine and Covenants 84:77. Invite the children to point to the picture of the Savior every time they hear the word “friends.” Explain that when we try to keep the commandments, we show Jesus that we love Him. Share what it means to you to have Jesus as your friend.
  • Help the children list some things they can do to show their friends that they love them. What did Jesus do to show us that He is our friend? What can we do to show the Savior that we are His friends? Sing together a song about Jesus, such as “Jesus Is Our Loving Friend” (Children’s Songbook, 58).

Ensign July 2010 “Jesus Christ, Our Perfect Friend”

Friend June 2018 “Family Night Fun” Add to the chain each time you do something towards being a good friend such as being kind, including others, etc.

Heavenly Father helps His missionaries.

Doctrine and Covenants 84:64–72, 81–88

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 84”

The idea of being a missionary someday can be exciting but also intimidating for some children. Doctrine and Covenants 84:88 can teach them how Heavenly Father helps those He sends forth to preach His gospel.

  • Help the children think of missionaries they know. Tell them that Heavenly Father has made a special promise to missionaries. Read Doctrine and Covenants 84:88, and help the children think of actions that go with the promises in this verse. Tell about a time when you were serving the Lord and felt that He was with you, as described in verse 88.
  • Share the story of the four-year-old boy in Elder Takashi Wada’s message “Feasting upon the Words of Christ” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 38–40). Help each child think of something they could say to share their testimony with someone—such as sharing an article of faith. Ask each child to pretend to share the gospel with a friend. Testify that Heavenly Father helps us know what to say when we talk with others about the gospel.

The Lord protects and empowers missionaries.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 84”

These verses contain promises the Lord made to those He called to preach the gospel. These promises can also inspire the children as they share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others.

  • Group the children into pairs, and give each pair a few verses to read from Doctrine and Covenants 84:64–72, 81–88. Invite them to search for promises the Lord gives to those who share the gospel. Ask them to share what they learned with the class. Help the children think of people they know, or people in the scriptures, who received the Lord’s help when preaching the gospel (such as Samuel the Lamanite [see Helaman 13:2–416:6–7] or Ammon [see Alma 17:32–38]). Share an experience when you felt the Lord’s support while you were serving Him.
  • Bring cups or other similar containers to class. Write on slips of paper ways the children can be missionaries now, and place each slip of paper in a cup. Group the cups close together, open end up, on the floor. Invite the children to take turns tossing a small object into one of the cups and then acting out what is on the paper in that cup. How can Heavenly Father help us when we share the gospel with others, even when it may be hard or we feel nervous?
  • Help the children see that we are all members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints because of missionary work—missionaries either taught the gospel to us, our parents, or our ancestors. Tell the children about how missionaries helped you or your ancestors receive the gospel. Let the children share similar experiences. Encourage them to ask their parents how the first Church members in their families learned about the gospel.

Friend July 2021 “Scripture Time Fun” Paper Lilies

  • Sing “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75).
  • Jesus said to “consider the lilies of the field” (Doctrine and Covenants 84:82). If Heavenly Father takes care of the flowers, we can trust that He will take care of us! (See Doctrine and Covenants 84:83–85.)
  • Make a paper lily to remind you of Heavenly Father’s love and care. Trace your hand on a piece of paper and cut it out. Roll the hand shape into a cone. Then roll each “finger” around a pencil to curl the paper outward for the petals. If you want, you can tape your flower to a stick to make a stem.

Doctrine and Covenants 84:43–44.

You could prepare a meal or a treat together and label each ingredient with a word or phrase from verse 44. Why is it important that we include every ingredient? Why is it important to live by every word of God? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 84”)

Additional Resources

Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 84”


Doctrine and Covenants 81-83

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I Can Be Faithful in Doing What the Lord Asks of Me.

Doctrine and Covenants 81

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 ” Doctrine and Covenants 81–83″

In March 1832, the Lord called Jesse Gause to be a counselor to Joseph Smith in the Presidency of the High Priesthood (now called the First Presidency). Doctrine and Covenants 81is a revelation to Brother Gause, instructing him in his new calling and promising him blessings for serving faithfully. But Jesse Gause did not serve faithfully. So Frederick G. Williams was called to replace him.

I Should Pray Always. I Can Pray “Vocally and In [My] Heart.”

Doctrine and Covenants 81:3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 81-83”

When the Lord called Frederick G. Williams to be a counselor to the Prophet Joseph Smith, He counseled Frederick to be “faithful … in prayer always.”

  • Read to the children the Lord’s counsel to be “faithful … in prayer always, vocally and in thy heart, in public and in private” (Doctrine and Covenants 81:3). Explain what it means to pray in our hearts, and share a personal example. Help the children think of times when they can pray “in public and in private.”
  • Invite someone to read Doctrine and Covenants 81:3, and ask the children what it means to pray “in [your] heart.” Share an experience when you prayed aloud or in your heart and the Lord helped you. Also ask the children to share their own experiences. How can prayer bring us closer to Heavenly Father?
  • Read or sing with the children a hymn about prayer, such as “Did You Think to Pray?” or “Secret Prayer” (Hymns,nos. 140, 144). Invite the children to share a phrase from the hymn that helps them understand something about prayer. Give them time to ponder what they can do to improve their prayers and then write their ideas.

You could give paper hearts to family members and invite them to draw or write something they would like to pray about. Talk about what it means to pray “always, vocally and in thy heart.” (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 ” Doctrine and Covenants 81–83″)

  • Ask the children to show you what they do when they pray. What do they do with their arms? their heads? their eyes? Explain that sometimes we want to talk to Heavenly Father, but we can’t kneel or close our eyes. What can we do? Read to the children from 3 Nephi 20:1: “[Jesus] commanded them that they should not cease to pray in their hearts.” Tell the children how you pray in your heart.
  • Draw a mouth and a heart on the board. Ask the children to point to the mouth and tell you some things they say when they pray. Then ask them to point to the heart, and explain that we can say those same things in our hearts. Testify that Heavenly Father knows our feelings and thoughts.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 20–26: “Ye Are the Children of the Covenant”)

Alma 33:2–1134:17–27

(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 32-35”)

  • Read phrases you have selected from Alma 33:4–11 that describe places we can pray, and help the children think of places they can pray. Then invite them to draw pictures of themselves praying in those places. Testify that they can pray anywhere, even if they are praying silently.

I Can Serve Those Around Me.

Doctrine and Covenants 81:582:19

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 81-83”

Heavenly Father knows the needs of each of His children, and He often uses other people—like the children you teach—to help meet those needs. How can you help the children recognize the needs of others and serve them?

  • Read Doctrine and Covenants 81:5 to the children, and help them understand phrases like “succor the weak” and “lift up the hands which hang down.” Let them act out ways we can do what the Lord asks in this verse. Use pictures or videos to tell simple stories of Jesus Christ serving others (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 4142464755; biblevideos.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How can we follow the Savior’s example of helping others?

Friend June 2017 “Jesus Healed People” Story of Jarius’s daughter being raised from the dead, and the story of the women with an issue of blood being healed when she touches the hem of Jesus’s robe.

Friend July 2017 “Jesus Fed Many People”

Friend September 2017 “Jesus is Kind” Jesus blesses the children.

Friend January 2018 “Following Paw Prints” As Derek was following paw prints in the snow, he helped his neighbors along the way. He likes to follow the example of Jesus by helping others. (Also do the activity of finding ways Derek can help family members.)

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 81-83”

  • Sing the fourth verse of “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75) or another song about service. Tell about a time when someone helped you feel the Savior’s love by serving you.

See Service for additional teaching ideas.

God Wants Me to Serve and Strengthen Those In Need.

Doctrine and Covenants 81:5

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 81-83”

  • Draw pictures of hands and knees on the board. Ask the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 81:5 to learn what the Lord says about these body parts. Watch the video “Pass It On” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), or share how you and the children have seen people serve each other. How can we be more aware of people in need around us? Invite the children to serve at least one person this week. For ideas about ways to serve others, sing a song about service, such as “Have I Done Any Good?” (Hymns, no. 223).
  • Invite the children to take turns setting up dominoes (or similar objects) while naming ways they can serve others. Ask a child to knock over one domino and notice how it affects the others. How can our service have a similar effect on people around us? (See also the video “Dominoes,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org.) Tell about how someone’s loving service encouraged you to serve someone else. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 81-83”)

Friend July 2021 “Scripture Time Fun: Words of Comfort”

  • Sing “Have I Done Any Good?” (Hymns, no. 223).
  • Jesus taught that we should “lift up the hands which hang down” (Doctrine and Covenants 81:5). That means helping others and encouraging them when they are sad or tired.
  • Make a helping hand! Trace your hand on a piece of paper and cut it out. Write something on it that you will do to help others and then hang it up where you can see it. If you want, you could hang your family’s hands up together to make a helping hands tree!

Friend July 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones”

For Doctrine and Covenants 81–83: Think of someone your family can serve. Give them a treat or card or help them with something. Help your little ones say, “I can help others!”

God Promises Blessings When I Obey Him.

Doctrine and Covenants 82:8–10

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 81-83”

As they grow, children may wonder why God gives us so many commandments. You can help the children understand that He gives us commandments to bless us.

  • Help the children think of commandments that God has given us (see, for example, Exodus 20:4–17Matthew 22:37–39Doctrine and Covenants 89:5–17). Draw pictures on the board to help the children understand and remember these commandments. Give examples of how God’s commandments can bless and protect us.
  • Read to the children, “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say” (Doctrine and Covenants 82:10). Ask the children to repeat this phrase several times with you, and think of ways to help them remember it, such as inviting them to clap to the rhythm of the phrase. Testify that when we obey God’s commandments, He keeps His promises to us.
  • Invite the children to imagine they have a friend who thinks that God has given too many commandments. Ask them to search Doctrine and Covenants 82:8–10 for something that would help their friend understand why God gives commandments. Share how God’s commandments have blessed you, and invite the children to share their thoughts as well.
  • To help the children understand Heavenly Father’s promises to us, divide the class into three groups, and give each group one of the following scriptures to read: Doctrine and Covenants 1:37–3882:10130:20–21. Invite them to share what they learn about Heavenly Father’s promises. How does our obedience affect the blessings we can receive? Help the children think of examples from their lives or from the scriptures when obedience brought blessings from God.
  • Share a personal experience that testifies of the principles taught in Doctrine and Covenants 82:8–10. How have you come to trust in the Lord and His promises?

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 ” Doctrine and Covenants 81–83″

Perhaps a simple game would help your family feel thankful for God’s commandments. One family member could give instructions to help a blindfolded family member make a sandwich or go through an obstacle course. Think of something fun and creative! Then discuss how God’s commandments are like the instructions in this game.

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.

“Why is Being Obedient So Important” (April 2015 Liahona and Friend)
Learn about Elder Russell M. Nelson and why he believes it’s important to be Obedient.

Friend March 2007 “Try, Try, Try” Find the path to Eternal Life.

Also see Commandments and Resources for Teaching Children: Commandments and Obedience for more teaching ideas.

Additional Resources:

Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 81–83”

See “Newel K. Whitney and the United Firm,” “Jesse Gause: Counselor to the Prophet,” Revelations in Context, 142–47, 155–57.


Doctrine and Covenants 77-80

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I Can Receive Answers to My Questions About the Scriptures.

Doctrine and Covenants 77

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

When he and Sidney Rigdon had questions about the book of Revelation as they worked on the inspired translation of the Bible, Joseph naturally sought wisdom from God. Section 77 contains the questions and the answers Joseph received about the book of Revelation. Ponder how you can follow the Prophet Joseph’s example when you study the scriptures. You might ask Heavenly Father, “What am I to understand?”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

  • Ask the children if they, like Joseph, have ever felt that they didn’t understand something in the scriptures. Let them share their experiences. What did Joseph do to find answers? Tell the children about a time when Heavenly Father helped you understand something in the scriptures.
  • The children you teach might enjoy reading some of the verses in the book of Revelation that Joseph Smith had questions about. Then they could look in Doctrine and Covenants 77 for what the Lord wanted him to understand. Choose a few verses you feel would be meaningful.

God Created Every Creature on Earth.

Doctrine and Covenants 77:2

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

Learning about the things God created can help the children feel His love for them.

  • Show the children pictures of animals, including insects and birds. As you read the words “beasts,” “creeping things,” and “fowls of the air” from Doctrine and Covenants 77:2, invite the children to point to the related pictures. Testify that God created all of these things because He loves us and wants us to be happy (see also Doctrine and Covenants 59:16–20).

Friend July 2021 “Find It” Julia and Leo went on a nature walk with their dad and stepmom. They loved seeing all of God’s creations! Find the hidden objects below.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

After reading this verse, family members could draw pictures of their favorite “beasts, … creeping things, … [or] fowls of the air” created by God. What do we learn about God’s creations from this verse? (see also Doctrine and Covenants 59:16–20). You could also sing a song about God’s creations, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook,228–29), and display the painting that accompanies this outline.

  • Sing with the children a song about God’s creations, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook,228–29). Ask the children how the things they are singing about help them feel God’s love.
  • See the below visuals here.

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.Doctrine and Covenants 77:14.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

This verse explains that John ate a book that represented his mission to gather Israel. What does the symbolism of eating suggest about how we should approach our role in gathering Israel or doing other things the Lord wants us to do? Here are some other scriptures in which eating is used to teach a spiritual truth: John 6:48–512 Nephi 32:3Moroni 4. Perhaps you could make a favorite family dish to eat together during this discussion.

I Can Help “Advance the Cause” of Jesus Christ.

Doctrine and Covenants 78:3–7

Less than two years after the Church of Jesus Christ was restored, it had grown to over 2,000 members and was spreading quickly. In March 1832 Joseph Smith met with other Church leaders “to discuss Church business”: the need to publish revelations, purchase land to gather on, and care for the poor (see Doctrine and Covenants 78, section heading). To meet these needs, the Lord called on a small number of Church leaders to form the United Firm, a group that would join their efforts to “advance the cause” of the Lord (verse 4) in these areas. (For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”)

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

In section 78, the Lord gave specific instructions to several Church leaders that would help them “advance the cause” of the Lord (verse 4). Help the children consider what their roles might be in advancing the Lord’s cause.

  • Ask the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 78:4. What is the “cause” we “espoused” (accepted or chose to support) when we were baptized? Encourage them to look in scripture passages like these for possible answers: Mosiah 18:8–10Doctrine and Covenants 20:37Moses 1:39.
  • Explain to the children that Newel K. Whitney owned a store and that the Lord asked him and other men to use some of their money to help pay for the Lord’s work (see Doctrine and Covenants 63:42–43). Invite them to read Doctrine and Covenants 78:3–7 and look for reasons these men were asked to do so. How would we have felt if we were asked to share like Newel did? Help them think of ways people contribute to the Lord’s work in our day, such as paying tithing and fast offerings, serving in callings, and so on.

See also Church Service

I Can Share What I Have with Others.

Doctrine and Covenants 78:6

Doctrine and Covenants Scripture Stories “Chapter 28: The Prophet Joseph Goes to Missouri Again”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

Heavenly Father wants us to share our blessings freely with each other so that we can be “equal in earthly things” and in “heavenly things” (verse 6).

  • To teach what it means to be “equal in earthly things” (verse 6), give children pictures of people in need (such as people who are hungry, injured, or cold. (Tip: Google search for images)). Then give other children objects that would help (such as food, a bandage, or a blanket). Invite these children to share what they have to help the people in the pictures. Let other children have a turn sharing. Help the children understand that Heavenly Father wants all of His children to have what they need, and to do this He often asks us to share what we have with others.
  • Ask the children to pretend they are helping someone build a house, sharing food, or serving in another way. How do we feel when we are helping and sharing? Help the children think of things Jesus Christ shares with us.

Friend March 2012 “The Coat” Young Heber J. Grant gives his new coat to a child that didn’t have one.

Friend December 2019 “Martin’s Favorite Toys” Martin was not happy about having to move, but eventually he got used to his new home. One Sunday, he noticed a lot of new people at church. He found out that they were refugees. He wanted to help them, but he didn’t want to give them any of his toys because he brought them from his old house. Then he realized that many of the children had to leave everything behind. He remembered how hard it was for him to move, but at least he got to bring his things with him. He then wanted to give them his favorite toys to help them be happier.

Jesus Christ Will Lead Me Along.

Doctrine and Covenants 78:18

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

If we are willing to let the Lord “lead [us] along,” we can “be of good cheer,” even if there are things we “cannot bear … now” (verse 18).

  • Invite the children to share times when they have been a leader, such as being at the front of a line or leading music. What does a leader do? Show a picture of the Savior as you read the following phrase from Doctrine and Covenants 78:18: “Be of good cheer, for I will lead you along.” Use this week’s activity page to help the children think of ways we can follow the Savior.
  • Invite the children to follow Jesus, and lead them around the room as you hold a picture of Him. As you do, sing a song together about following Jesus Christ, such as “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” or “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79, 160–61). Let the children take turns holding the picture and leading the other children.

Latter Day Kids “I Will Lead You Along” Includes video, activities, and lesson ideas

Friend July 2020 “Bright Idea” I can follow Jesus Christ in small and simple ways.

Friend December 2016 “A Shining Light”

Friend December 2016

See also “Following Jesus” for additional teaching ideas.

I Should Receive “All Things with Thankfulness.”

Doctrine and Covenants 78:19

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

The Lord often blesses us more if we are grateful for what He has already given us. How can you help the children you teach be grateful for their blessings?

  • Ask the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 78:19 and find what the Lord promises to those who are thankful. Help the children understand what “an hundred fold” means, perhaps by showing a small object and then 100 of that same object.
  • Sing a song about gratitude, such as “I Am Glad for Many Things” (Children’s Songbook, 151), or watch the video “Think to Thank” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Give the children time to make lists of things they are thankful for. Encourage them to list as many things as possible in the time you give them.

For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

Family members could draw pictures of blessings from God they are thankful for. What are we doing to express our thankfulness for these blessings? You could also discuss how your family is following the counsel to receive “all things with thankfulness” (verse 19). What does the Lord promise to those who do?

Friend November 2004 “Blessings Tree”

See more teaching ideas at Gratitude.

Additional Resources:

Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resource “Doctrine and Covenants 77–80

See also “Newel K. Whitney and the United Firm,” Revelations in Context, 142–47; “United Firm,” Church History Topics, ChurchofJesusChrist.org/study/church-history.

Liahona July 2021 “Called of the Lord”


Doctrine and Covenants 76

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For the Strength of Youth July 2021 “The Vision”

Friend July 2021 “A Vision of God’s Plan”

We Are All Children of God.

Doctrine and Covenants 76:24

President Dallin H. Oaks said that if we teach “a young person the powerful idea that he or she is a child of God,” we can give him or her the “self-respect and motivation to move against the problems of life” (“Powerful Ideas,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 25).

We lived in Heaven: (Click on the below picture. Print the picture, or show it on an electronic device.) Explain that before we were born on earth we lived in heaven with Heavenly Father.

We were spirits there. A spirit is what is inside of us that makes us alive. When we were spirits, we didn’t have flesh and bones like our bodies have now, but we looked the same.

Explain that Heavenly Father is the father of our spirits, and we are his spirit children

  • To help the children understand their potential to become like God, find ways to show them that baby animals grow to become like their parents—perhaps the children could match pictures of animals with pictures of the animals’ babies. Open the scriptures to Doctrine and Covenants 76:24, and tell the children that we are all “sons and daughters unto God.” Bear your testimony that God is our Father and that we can grow to be like our Heavenly Parents.

We can be like Heavenly Father 

(Print and cut out these images pdf.) Use the following questions with the images. They could also be made into a matching game.

  • What is a baby dog called?
  • What will that puppy grow up to be?
  • What is a baby chicken called?
  • What will that chick grow up to be?

Explain that just as animals grow up to be like their parents, we will grow up to be like our parents.

Friend January 2017 “Kylie’s Parents” Kylie is like her earthly parents, and she is also like her Heavenly Parents. PDF version

Heavenly Father is the father of our spirits, so we can grow to be like him. Heavenly Father is loving, good, and kind. When we are loving, good, and kind, we are being like Heavenly Father.  We should try to become more like Heavenly Father every day.

Have children tell or act out ways they can be loving, good, or kind.

  • Sing together “I Am a Child of God” (Children’s Songbook,2–3), and invite the children to point to themselves when they sing “I.” Ask them to sing the song again, replacing “I am” with “you are” and pointing to someone else in the class.

Explain that God is another name for Heavenly Father.

(The below visuals are from the Nursery Manual. Also see lds.org for the music)

Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world.

Doctrine and Covenants 76:40–42

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 76”

The word gospel means good news. The good news that the gospel brings is that Jesus Christ “came into the world … to cleanse it from all unrighteousness” (verse 41).

  • Tell the children about some good news you heard recently. Ask them to share good news they have heard. Then share with them the good news of the gospel by reading Doctrine and Covenants 76:41–42. Ask the children how this good news makes them feel. Share with them the joy this good news brings to you.
  • Show a picture of Jesus Christ. Ask the children if they know what Jesus Christ did for us. Show the children something dirty and something clean (like a white handkerchief or sheet of paper), and explain that sin is like dirt on our spirits, but Jesus Christ came to help us become clean again.

Friend February 2020 “Funstuff: Blessing from Jesus” Match the cards to finish each sentence. Examples: Because Jesus died for us… … everyone who dies will live again. Because Jesus paid for our sins… …we can repent and be forgiven.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 76”

  • Help the children understand that the glorious blessings God promises to the faithful in the next life are possible only because of the Savior Jesus Christ. Write on the board What has Jesus Christ done for me? Ask each child to silently read verses 41–42 and verse 69. looking for possible answers to the question on the board. Let them share their answers (see also “He Sent His Son,” Children’s Songbook, 34–35). How can we show our gratitude for what the Savior has done for us?
  • Write the third article of faith on the board, leaving blanks in place of key words. Give the children these missing words on slips of paper, and invite them to put their words in the correct places on the board. What does this article of faith teach us about why we need Jesus Christ? (see also the video “Why We Need a Savior,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

Heavenly Father has Prepared a Kingdom of Celestial Glory for Me.

Doctrine and Covenants 76:50–70

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 76”

  • Tell the children about the three kingdoms of glory that Joseph and Sidney saw in their vision. (You might read to the children part or all of “Chapter 26: The Three Kingdoms of Heaven” Focus in particular on describing the celestial kingdom, and testify that this is where Heavenly Father wants each of us to be.
  • If someone asked us, “Why should I follow Jesus Christ and keep His commandments?” what would we say? Invite the children to look for answers in Doctrine and Covenants 76:50–70.
  • Draw a large picture of the sun on a piece of paper, and cut it into several puzzle pieces. Give each child a piece, along with one of the following scripture passages to read: Doctrine and Covenants 76:5176:5276:53131:1–2. Ask the children to find in their verses something that we must do to receive eternal life in the celestial kingdom (some verses include more than one answer), and write it on their piece of the sun. As they work together to assemble the puzzle, express your confidence in them that with the Savior’s help, they can qualify for the celestial kingdom.

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 23: The Prophet Receives a Vision of the Three Degrees of Glory,”

Before class, make a large illustration of the sun out of paper, and cut it into four puzzle pieces. Write one of the following on each piece:

  1. Be baptized and confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
  2. Receive the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands.
  3. Receive the temple endowment.
  4. Be married, or sealed, in the temple.

Explain to the children that we must receive certain ordinances to be able to live with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ in the highest degree of the celestial kingdom. Place the four puzzle pieces on the table or floor, with the illustration facing up. Have a child turn over a piece and read what it says. Repeat with the other three pieces. Then have the children put the puzzle together.

Friend July 2021 “Heavenly Father’s Plan of Happiness”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 76”

Doctrine and Covenants Scripture Stories “Chapter 26: The Three Kingdoms of Heaven” Includes images and video

Gospel Media “Degrees of Glory”

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 23: The Prophet Receives a Vision of the Three Degrees of Glory,”

Ask the children to close their eyes and imagine they are outside on a cloudy night when everything is absolutely dark.

  • What do you see?
  • What could you see if you had the light of the stars?
  • What could you see if you had the light of the moon?
  • What could you see if you had the light of the sun?

Have the children open their eyes. Draw pictures of a star, the moon, and the sun on the chalkboard, with the star at the bottom of the chalkboard, the moon above the star, and the sun above the moon.

  • If you could choose just one of these sources of light to see by, which would it be? Why?

Explain that Heavenly Father has provided three different places for people to live after they are resurrected. These places are referred to as kingdoms of glory in heaven.

As you explain the following information about these kingdoms, put the corresponding wordstrip next to the drawing of the star, moon, or sun:

  • The telestial kingdom is the lowest kingdom. It has a glory compared to the brightness of the stars. (See D&C 76:81.)
  • The terrestrial kingdom is the middle kingdom. It has a glory compared to the brightness of the moon. (See D&C 76:71.)
  • The celestial kingdom is the highest kingdom. It has a glory compared to the brightness of the sun. (See D&C 76:70.)
  • Who will live in the telestial kingdom? (D&C 76:81–82, 103.) Which member of the Godhead will visit the people in the telestial kingdom? (D&C 76:86, 88.) Explain that the Holy Ghost and angels will minister to the people in the telestial kingdom. The people there will know about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ but will never live with them or see them. 
  • Who will live in the terrestrial kingdom? (D&C 76:71–76.) Which member of the Godhead will visit the people in the terrestrial kingdom? (D&C 76:77.) Explain that Jesus Christ will visit the people in the terrestrial kingdom. The people there will know about Heavenly Father but will never live with him. 
  • Who will live in the celestial kingdom? (D&C 76:50–52.) Explain that the celestial kingdom will include faithful members of the Church who have been baptized and confirmed and have kept the commandments (see enrichment activity 1). Which members of the Godhead will the people in the celestial kingdom live with? (D&C 76:62;

As you discuss the three kingdoms, emphasize that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ want all of us to live in the highest level, or degree, of the celestial kingdom with them and our families. To be worthy of the celestial kingdom, we must keep Heavenly Father’s commandments and receive important gospel ordinances. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been restored to the earth to help us reach the celestial kingdom.

For the Strength of Youth July 2021

The Lord has revealed some powerful truths about [the celestial kingdom]. Here are some of the things we know:

  • To live there means to dwell in the presence of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ with a perfect, resurrected body and to live the kind of life They live. This life is “a state of never-ending happiness” (Mosiah 2:41) and a “fulness of joy” (3 Nephi 28:10).
  • Those who live there have been “made perfect through Jesus,” and “all things are theirs” (Doctrine and Covenants 76:59, 69).
  • It has the greatest glory of any kingdom. Its glory has been likened to the brightness of the sun.
  • The same kinds of relationships we have here will exist there, including family relationships, but they will be “coupled with eternal glory” (Doctrine and Covenants 130:2).
  • It has three degrees. The highest degree is where people live who have been sealed together in eternal marriage and have been true to their covenants (see Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4).
  • The earth will receive a celestial glory (see Doctrine and Covenants 88:17–20).

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Three Kingdoms of Glory”

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 ” Doctrine and Covenants 76″

What do we learn from these verses about the importance of our testimonies? What role do our testimonies play in our eternal destiny? It might help to look up definitions of valiantto discuss how to be “valiant in the testimony of Jesus” (verse 79). You could also sing “I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162).

Liahona July 2021 “Gospel Basics: Our Heavenly Father Wants Us to Be Happy” Teaches about the plan of salvation.

Friend July 2021 “Plan of Salvation Board Game”

Studying the Scriptures can Help Me “Understand the Things of God.”

Doctrine and Covenants 76:12, 15–19114–16

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 76”

Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon received Doctrine and Covenants 76 when they were pondering the scriptures. Help the children see how studying the scriptures can invite revelation through the Holy Ghost.

Possible Activities

  • Ask the children if they know what Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon were doing when they saw the vision in Doctrine and Covenants 76. Invite them to read verses 15–19 to find out. Share a time when you received inspiration while reading the scriptures, and ask the children to talk about the spiritual feelings they have when reading the scriptures.
  • Ask the children to close their eyes and try to perform a task, like coloring a picture or opening the scriptures to a specific verse. What are some things that are difficult to do when our eyes are closed spiritually? Read together Doctrine and Covenants 76:12, 15–19114–16 to find out what we need to do to have our eyes opened spiritually.

Additional Resources

Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 76


Goals: Lesson Ideas

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Little Ones Can Set Goals Too

Friend February 2021″Hi Friends” Saying my prayers and learning the alphabet are two of my goals.Eden, age 4, Veneto, Italy

Friend March 2023 “What Are Your Goals and Dreams?” Eight children tell what their goals and dreams are.

Setting Goals

Friend January 2024 “What’s on Your Mind?”

Friend August 2021 “For Older Kids” Talk to a parent or Primary leader about your goals. They can share ideas and help cheer you on! You could even work on a goal together.

Friend August 2021 “For Older Kids” I wanted to learn to sew a blanket for my baby brothers who are coming. So I set a goal. My mom showed me how to use the sewing machine, and now I can do it by myself! I’m excited for my baby brothers to see the blanket. And I’m glad I learned how to sew! Jayci H., age 9, Utah, USA

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can help me know how to improve.

Psalm 139:23–24

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022

Psalm 139 teaches that God knows everything about us, including our strengths and weaknesses. If we turn to Him, He can teach us what we need to do to become more like Him.

  • Write the words of Psalm 139:23–24 on the board, and invite the children to underline words that describe things God can do for us. Why would we want God to do these things? How can we invite Him to “lead [us] in the way everlasting”?
  • Encourage the children to “search” their own lives for ways they can improve in the four areas of focus in the Children and Youth program—spiritual, social, physical, and intellectual. Remind them that the Lord knows how they can improve in each of these areas, and encourage them to seek His guidance.
  • Sing a song about how Heavenly Father can help us improve, such as the second verse of “Help Me, Dear Father” (Children’s Songbook, 99). Share how Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have helped you improve.

Breaking a Bad Habit

Friend October 2023 “What’s On Your Mind?” Stopping a bad habit is tough. But it’s definitely worth it to keep trying, no matter how many times you mess up. Trying, failing, and trying again is part of everyone’s journey. So be patient with yourself. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught, “Our destiny is not determined by the number of times we stumble but by the number of times we rise up, dust ourselves off, and move forward.”1

Find a Goal Buddy

Friend February 2021 “For Older Kids” Find a goal buddy! Share your goals with each other. Then you can ask how things are going and cheer each other on.

How to Reach Your Goal

Friend July 2023 “Good-Things Box” May made a good things box. Every day she take slips of paper and write the good things I did that day. It makes me feel good and helps me try to be better! Make your own good things box below.

Friend March 1985 “Reaching Your Goal”

Friend March 1985
Friend March 1985

For the Strength of Youth “February 2023 “When Working on Goals Gets Tough” Have you ever set a goal to start out the new year and felt super motivated to do it . . . for like one day? Here are some tips to help you stick to your goals!

Goals for the Future

Friend May 20224 “When I Grow Up”

Friend April 2016 “Your Future Home” Desires for the future can become reality. Story and lesson ideas.

"Your Future Home"

Don’t Give Up

Friend June 2021 “Don’t Give Up” Resilience means not giving up, even when something is hard. It means trying again after you mess up or moving forward when bad things happen.

Track Your Progress

Friend October 2021 “For Older Kids”

Personal Development: Children’s Guidebook

Friend January 2020 “Growing Like Jesus”

Friend August 2023 “Growing Like Jesus with the Children and Youth Program”

Ensign January 2020 “Motivation the Rising Generation” Here are four ways to help your children set and achieve meaningful goals to grow as the Savior did.

Friend June 2021 ” For Older Kids” If you feel discouraged about reaching your goals, ask yourself these questions:

  • Who can I ask for help?
  • How can I take a small step toward my goal?
  • What have I learned so far?

Friend June 2021 “Children and Youth Challenge” Do some activities from this board for the Children and Youth program! Can you cross off five in a row?

Friend January 2022 “What’s on Your Mind?” Setting a goal can help you learn and become more like Jesus. You could start by praying. Then write down any thoughts that come to mind. When you pick a goal, ask a parent or leader to help you make a plan.

Friend September 2023 “Taking Care of You”

Friend November 2022 “For Older Kids” (See photo at link)

I love making recipes from the Friend! One of my goals for the Children and Youth program is to learn how to cook. It’s very fun to follow the recipes and also very yummy. I am learning new cooking techniques. David A., age 9, Utah, USA

Friend February 2023 “The Most Important Things” What matters most in your life? In the boxes, draw pictures of things that are important to you and that help you grow to be more like Jesus Christ.

Spiritual Goals

Friend December 2022 “For Older Kids” Spiritual: “Write down three things you are thankful for. Try to write three new things each day” (Children’s Guidebook, 47).

Friend June 2022 “For Older Kids” Spiritual: “Sing with a family member. Notice how listening to good music makes you feel” (Children’s Guidebook, 49).

Physical Goals

Friend August 2022 “For Older Kids”

Friend December 2021 “For Older Kids” When you reach a goal, think about how you have improved. Write down what you have learned in your Children’s Guidebook or journal. How did your goal help you to be more like Jesus?

Social Goals

Friend October 2022 “The Friendship Party” Maya decides to help some kids, who recently moved in, feel welcome by having party and introducing them to other kids.

Friend October 2022 “Liv and Melanie’s Family Magazine” Liv made a goal to do family history. She and her sister decided to make their family history into a magazine. They interviewed family members whose birthdays were in July. In the August issue the theme was Father’s Day, so they interviewed all the fathers in their family. Creating a family history magazine has helped them get to know extended family members better. (See photos at link.)

For the Strength of Youth January 2023 Goal: Get to know the young women in her class better

“I may have known every young woman’s name in my ward, but I did not know who they were or what they liked. So I started one by one with each young woman, and for an introvert like me, I enjoyed how I found so many things we have in common. The more time I took to get to know them, the more I saw these beautiful young women the way Heavenly Father sees them.”

Blessings of Accomplishing Goals

Friend January 2023 “Finding My Talents” Fruean accomplished his goals and gained many new talents.

Friend May 2023 “Becoming Like Jesus”

Write below how you are becoming like Jesus Christ.

I am getting stronger by ________________________________________________.

I am getting smarter by ________________________________________________.

I am growing kinder by _________________________________________________.

I am growing my testimony by _________________________________________.

Someday I want to ____________________________________________________.

Friend February 2024 “My New Buddy” Sam makes a goal to make new friends so he joined a group called Peer Buddies. In Peer Buddies, fifth graders work with younger kids who have learning disabilities or delays. On the first day he had so much fun playing with one of the children. He was glad the Children and Youth goal helped him make a new friend.

Family Goals

Friend January 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities: The True Light”

Story: Jesus Christ is sometimes called the “true Light” (John 1:9). The scriptures teach that we should keep His commandments and follow Him. Then we will have “power to become the sons [and daughters] of God” (John 1:12).

Song: “Jesus Is My True Light” (page 23)

Activity: Draw a picture of a goal you have. Have someone hide your picture somewhere in the room and turn off the lights. Now get a small light and shine it around the room. Can you find your picture now? Talk about how Jesus Christ can help you reach your goals.

Friend January 2023 “Find It” This family is doing the activity above for home evening. Can you find four pictures the family drew of their goals? Then find the other hidden objects.


Covenants & Promises: Lesson Ideas

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Covenants are promises I make with God and He makes with me.

Friend February 2019 “Family Night Fun” A covenant is a promise between two individuals: you and Heavenly Father. Here’s a recipe that needs just two ingredients! Bananut Ice Cream.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is 31C66FAE-E482-4176-B4E3-B1957A3C99D2-910x1024.jpeg

Covenants Help Me Return to Heavenly Father.

My Covenant Path

Friend August 2023 “Walking along the Covenant Path” Heavenly Father sent you to earth to learn and grow so you can become like Him. As you follow Jesus Christ, you walk along the path back to your heavenly home. This is called the covenant path. Follow along and color these pictures to learn more.

Friend January 2023 “A Plan for Me” Your covenant path back to Heavenly Father.

Friend February 2023 “Baptism”

Friend March 2023 “Baptismal Covenants”

Friend April 2023 “Repentance” What is repentance and how is it possible. Also, the steps of repentance.

Friend May 2023 “Temple Baptisms”

Friend June 2023 “The Sacrament”

Friend July 2023 “A Member of Jesus Christ’s Church”

Friend September 2023 “Helping Each Other”

Friend October 2023 “The Priesthood”

Friend December 2023 “Preparing for More Covenants”

Genesis CHAPTER 28

Isaac forbids Jacob to marry a Canaanite—He blesses Jacob and his seed with the blessings of Abraham—Esau marries a daughter of Ishmael—Jacob sees in vision a ladder reaching up into heaven—The Lord promises him seed as the dust of the earth in number—The Lord also promises Jacob that in him and in his seed all the families of the earth will be blessed—Jacob covenants to pay tithes.

“Lesson 34: Genesis 28–30,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material According to Genesis 28:1–2, Isaac instructed his son Jacob to marry one of the daughters of Laban and not a Canaanite woman. The Canaanites worshipped idols and engaged in other practices that were offensive to God. A daughter of Canaan would not be worthy to join Jacob in entering into a marriage covenant with the Lord. If Jacob were to marry a daughter of Canaan, he would be marrying out of the covenant.

When we are married in the temple, we make covenants with the Lord. Marriage in the temple is covenant marriage. If we keep our covenants, we qualify for all the blessings that were promised to Abraham.

Old Testament Stories “Jacob and His Family”

Genesis 28:10–22

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 28-33” In a dream, Jacob saw a ladder leading up to heaven. (Imagine the bottom of the ladder as the earth and the top of the ladder as heaven or the presence of the Lord.)The steps on the ladder can represent covenants we make with God, because these covenants help prepare us to return to His presence.

  • Read Genesis 28:12–13 to the children. Explain that the steps on the ladder can represent covenants that help us return to Heavenly Father. Invite the children to pretend they are climbing a ladder as you talk about times when we promise to obey God, such as when we are baptized, take the sacrament, or go to the temple. Help the children think of ways they can prepare to make covenants when they are baptized.

Teaching Children the Gospel “Ordinance (and Covenants) Progression Lesson” We must receive the saving ordinances of the gospel and keep the associated covenants in order to return to the presence of the Lord.

  • Read Genesis 28:15 to the children, emphasizing the words “I am with thee” and “I will not leave thee.” Explain that God has promised to always be with us as we try to choose the right. Help the children think of things they can do to feel closer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
  • Invite the children to read Genesis 28:10–15 and then draw a picture of Jacob’s dream. Ask them to share their pictures. Explain that the ladder represented a way for Jacob to return to God. What has God given to help us return to Him? (see this week’s activity page). Remind the children of their baptismal covenant. How does living this covenant bring us closer to God?
  • Show a picture of a temple, and write on the board key phrases from Genesis 28:15–17, such as: “I am with thee,” “The Lord is in this place,” “The house of God,” or “The gate of heaven.” Invite the children to find these phrases. Tell the children about how the temple and temple covenants help you feel close to the Lord.

“Lesson 34: Genesis 28–30,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material We read in Genesis 28:16–19, 22 that Jacob described the place where he had his dream. The phrases “he was afraid” and “how dreadful is this place” in verse 17 refer to his feelings of reverence and awe. These phrases indicate that Jacob understood the seriousness of entering the presence of God.

Institute Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Genesis 24–36” “Because he had met the Lord and entered into covenants with him there, Jacob considered the site so sacred that he named the place Bethel, a contraction of Beth-Elohim, which means literally ‘the House of the Lord.’ He said of it: ‘… this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.’ (Gen. 28:17.)

What places serve as “the gate of heaven” for us today? “Temples are to us all what Bethel was to Jacob. Even more, they are also the gates to heaven for all of our unendowed kindred dead.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 Cut out the windows with the ordinances that are done inside the temple, and match them with the pictures in the windows of the temple.

Friend October 2021 “Build a Temple” Cut along the dotted lines to make a puzzle of what the Bangkok Thailand Temple will look like.

“Genesis 28: Jacob’s Sacred Experience,” Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide

  1. Identify the Promises Isaac promised Jacob(see vv. 3–4)The Lord promised Jacob(see vv. 13–15)Jacob promised the Lord(see vv. 20–22)   In Genesis 28, Isaac promised Jacob certain blessings, the Lord promised Jacob certain blessings, and Jacob promised the Lord he would do certain things. Identify the promises in this chapter and put them in a chart similar to the one shown.
  2. Draw Your Ladder to Heaven
    1. Draw a ladder in your notebook. Label the rungs or steps with ordinances you must receive and covenants you must make with God in order to obtain eternal life.
    2. Show your drawing to your parents or Church leaders to see if you have left anything out.
    3. Write about what you are doing in your life right now to obtain these covenants or what you are doing to be worthy of the blessings of the covenants you have already entered into.

Friend February 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Climb the Ladder”

Story: Jacob had a dream about a ladder leading up to heaven. The steps on the ladder represent the steps we take to get closer to God. (See Genesis 28:10–16.)

Song: “Stand for the Right” (Children’s Songbook, 159)

Activity: Make a pretend ladder on the ground with chalk or sticks. Take turns saying one thing that we promise Heavenly Father when we get baptized. Each time, move one step forward on the ladder. (See Doctrine and Covenants 20:77and Mosiah 18:8–10.)

Latter Day Kids “Line Upon Line” Lesson ideas to go with the below video

The hymn “Nearer, My God, to Thee” (Hymns, no. 100) was inspired by Jacob’s dream. Your family could sing this song and discuss what each verse teaches.

It is Important to Keep My Promises.

Friend May 2017 ” Conference Notes” Sister Jones told the story of five-year-old Lizzie and her big brother, Kevin. Kevin’s dad asked him if he would promise not to tease Lizzie for one day. Kevin agreed. He kept his promise! Then his mom asked him to try not teasing Lizzie for two days. He kept his promise again! Sister Jones said that when we keep our promises, we are learning to make and keep sacred covenants.

Genesis CHAPTER 15

Abram desires offspring—The Lord promises him seed in number as the stars—Abram believes the promise—His seed will be strangers in Egypt—Then, after four generations, they will inherit Canaan.

Genesis CHAPTER 17

Abram is commanded to be perfect—He will be a father of many nations—His name is changed to Abraham—The Lord covenants to be a God unto Abraham and his seed forever—Also, the Lord gives Abraham the land of Canaan for an everlasting possession—Circumcision becomes a token of the everlasting covenant between God and Abraham—Sarai’s name is changed to Sarah—She will bear Isaac, with whom the Lord will establish His covenant—Abraham and the men of his house are circumcised.

Genesis 15:1–617:1–8Abraham 2:9–11

Old Testament Stories “Abraham and Sarah” Abraham prayed to the Lord to learn more about Him. The Lord visited Abraham and called Himself Jehovah. Jehovah made a covenant with Abraham. He promised that Abraham would have the priesthood. He also promised that through Abraham’s family, all the families of the earth would be blessed.

Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” Learning about the covenant that God made with Abraham and Sarah can help the children understand what it means to keep promises. It can also help them prepare to make and keep covenants.

  • Ask the children if they know what a promise or covenant is. Invite them to share experiences when they made a promise or someone made a promise to them. If it’s helpful, share some examples of your own. Help the children understand that Abraham and Sarah promised to obey God. Choose a few phrases from Genesis 15:1–617:1–8Abraham 2:9–11 to share some of the blessings God promised to them. These might include “Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield,” “Thou shalt be a father of many nations,” or “All the families of the earth [shall] be blessed.”

Pearl of Great Price Coloring Book “Abrahamic Covenant”

  • What are some simple promises the children could make and keep during class? For instance, ask them to promise to stay in their seats for a few minutes or put away their chairs at the end of class. Share with them a time when you made a promise and kept it, and invite them to share any experiences they have had. Help them understand that they will make promises with Heavenly Father when they are baptized and when they go to the temple.

Sometimes keeping our promises help keep us safe, such as in the the story below. Keeping the covenants we make with Heavenly Father can also help keep us safe, spiritually and physically, and help us to become more like our Heavenly Father.

Friend April 2021 “Trouble at the Creek” Brian doesn’t keep his promise to his mom to stay away from the creek after the storm. He crosses it on a fallen log and gets his foot stuck. 

Friend February 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

Story: God told the prophet Abraham, “Fear not … I am thy shield” (Genesis 15:1). He told Abraham that He would help and protect him.

Song: “I Want to Live the Gospel” (Children’s Songbook, 148)

Activity: Draw or make a shield. Write on your shield ways you can obey God.

Friend February 2019 “The Baptism Covenant” Cut out and mix up these cards. Then take turns matching cards that go together. With each match, talk about that part of the baptism covenant.

Friend May 2022 “Conference Notes”

Strength comes from faithfulness to my covenants with God.

Judges 13–16

Samson lost both his physical strength and his spiritual strength because he violated his covenants with God,

Judges CHAPTER 13

Israel is in Philistine bondage for forty years—An angel comes to Manoah’s wife and promises a son who will begin to deliver Israel—The angel comes again; he ascends in a flame from the altar—Samson is born, and the Spirit of the Lord moves upon him.

Judges CHAPTER 14

Samson slays a young lion with his bare hands—He marries a Philistine wife, propounds a riddle, is deceived by his wife, and slays thirty Philistines.

Judges CHAPTER 15

Samson burns the grain of the Philistines—They burn his wife and father-in-law—Samson slays a thousand Philistines at Lehi with the jawbone of an ass.

Judges CHAPTER 16

Samson carries away the doors of the gate of Gaza—He loves Delilah, who delivers him to the Philistines—He destroys a building, killing himself and 3,000 others.

Media Library “Samson Pulls Down the Pillars”

“Lesson 25: Samson,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 110–13 Samson’s mission would require physical strength. The Lord made a covenant with Samson that as long as he obeyed the Lord, he would be physically strong. Samson’s long hair (see Judges 13:5) was a sign of this covenant. When Samson kept his covenants he was blessed with the ability to help his people, but when he broke his covenants he lost both his spiritual and physical strength.

What happens when people become spiritually weak? (They give in to temptations, they sin, they lose the guidance of the Holy Ghost, and they lose the ability to fulfill their callings and bless others.)

How are we blessed when we keep our covenants and are spiritually strong?

  1. Before class identify a strength you have observed in each child. Write a note to each one telling of this strength, such as, “Dear , you are strong in coming to Primary each week.” Some other ideas might include:
    • Being kind to others
    • Sharing your testimony
    • Helping your parents
    • Being a peacemaker
    • Being a good friend
    • Reading the scriptures
  2. Point out that we all have different kinds of strengths. Heavenly Father needs us to use these strengths to serve him and to serve others. Read aloud each note you have prepared, without reading the names, and then give them to the children. Help the children realize that these are only some of the many strengths Heavenly Father has blessed them with. Give the children an opportunity to mention other strengths they have observed in class members. Encourage them to develop these and other strengths during the coming week.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16” Samson’s covenants with the Lord gave him strength, just as our covenants give us strength. Your family might enjoy doing some physical exercises and discussing how those exercises can help make us strong. What can we do to help us become spiritually stronger? For some ideas, family members could read Mosiah 18:8–10Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79. How does keeping our covenants give us spiritual strength?

“Lesson 25: Samson,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 110–13 Ask for a volunteer to demonstrate how to flex his or her arm muscles. Let the whole class try it to see if they can feel their own muscles. You may want to let two children arm wrestle or pull sticks (a game Joseph Smith enjoyed). To pull sticks, have two boys sit on the floor facing each other, legs extended, knees bent, and the soles of their feet touching. Have each boy grasp the same large stick and try to pull the other up until he is standing on his feet.

  • How do muscles help us? Discuss what happens when we exercise our muscles and what happens when we do not use them. Help the children realize that exercise helps us develop strong muscles.
  • Explain that our spirits also need to grow stronger. How can we become stronger spiritually? (By keeping our baptismal covenants, obeying our parents, praying, attending church, reading the scriptures, and so on.)
  • Why is it important to become spiritually strong? (So we can avoid temptation, be guided in our decisions by the Holy Ghost, and know good from evil.)

Help the children understand that we need to develop spiritual strength just as we need to develop physical strength.

I Can Keep the Covenants I Make with Heavenly Father.

Genesis 17:1–8Abraham 2:8–11

Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” Teaching the children about the covenant God made with Abraham and Sarah can help them think about their own covenants.

  • Invite the children to read Genesis 17:1–8 and Abraham 2:8–11 and make two lists: what Abraham was asked to do and what the Lord promised him in return. What do we learn about the Lord from these verses?
  • Invite the children to read Genesis 17:1–8 and Abraham 2:8–11 and make two lists: what Abraham was asked to do and what the Lord promised him in return. What do we learn about the Lord from these verses?

Lesson 9: Jehovah Makes Covenants with Abraham,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 35–38 

  1. Have the children take turns choosing slips of paper with the following scripture references on them that tell of the promises made to Abraham. Explain that seed means descendants. Have them read each verse aloud and, if they desire, mark the verses in their own scriptures.
    • Abraham 2:9—His name would be great among all nations.
    • Abraham 2:10—All who accept the gospel through baptism would be known as Abraham’s descendants.
    • Abraham 2:11—The Lord would bless those who blessed Abraham and curse those who cursed Abraham.
    • Abraham 2:11—His descendants would have the priesthood.
    • Abraham 2:11—His seed would have the responsibility to be missionaries and take the gospel to all nations.
    • Abraham 2:19—Abraham and his descendants would be given the land of Canaan.
    • Genesis 22:17—The Lord would multiply Abraham’s seed greatly (Abraham would have many descendants).
  • Show a picture of someone getting baptized (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103104). Ask the children to list the promises a person makes at baptism and the promises God makes in return. Suggest that the children look in Mosiah 18:10Doctrine and Covenants 20:37, 77, 79 for help. What can we do to keep the covenants we made at baptism?

We Promise
Have the children look up and read Mosiah 18:8-10 to find the covenants we make at baptism. As they find each one have them put the corresponding word strips under the “We Promise” word strip.

To come into the fold of God and be called his people.
We promise to join his church and take upon us the name of Christ. As members of his church we represent Christ and are to be examples of his teachings. (See the lesson on King Benjamin to further review this principle.)

To stand as a witness of God at all times and all places.
A witness is someone who tells others what they know and have seen; so a witness of God tells others what they know about God and His church. They state their beliefs in His commandments and try to be an example of them.

To serve God and keep his commandments.
We become more like our Savior as we obey the commandments.

To serve and help others.
We become more like our Savior as we serve and help others, which includes:

o Mourning with those that mourn.
o Comforting those that stand in need of comfort.
o Bearing one another’s burdens.

The Lord Promises
• What does the Lord promise if we keep the covenants we make? (Have the children look up and read Mosiah 18:9-10 to find the things the Lord promises. As they find each one, have them put the corresponding word strips under the “The Lord Promises” word strip.

We can be redeemed of God.
This means we can be forgiven of our sins when we repent.

We can come forth in the first resurrection.
We will be ready and spiritually prepared to come forth out of the spirit world during the first resurrection.

We can have eternal life.
Eternal life is the kind of life Heavenly Father has, which includes having a fullness of joy, love, peace, knowledge, and power.

He will pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon us.
As we keep our covenants, the Lord will bless us with his spirit more abundantly. The companionship of the Holy Ghost is a wonderful blessing because the Holy Ghost guides, teaches, protects, and comforts us.

Genesis 13:1615:2–617:15–19.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” How can you help your family understand the Lord’s promise in these verses—that even though Abraham and Sarah did not yet have children, their posterity would be as numerous as the dust of the earth, stars in the sky, or sand on the seashore? (see also Genesis 22:17). Perhaps you could show family members a container of sand, look at the stars, or use the picture that accompanies this outline. How can we trust God’s promises even when they seem impossible?’

Lesson 9: Jehovah Makes Covenants with Abraham,” Primary 6: Old Testament Bring some sand in a container. Let the children try to count the grains they can hold between their thumb and forefinger. Imagine the vastness of Abraham’s posterity. Ask the children how they personally can help fulfill the promises made to Abraham that his seed would become as numerous as the grains of “sand which is upon the sea shore” (Genesis 22:17)

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Thoughts to Keep in Mind: Covenant”

For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Covenants” and Resources for Teaching Children “Covenants”

Friend August 2023 “My Baptismal Covenant”

Friend September 2023 “The Lesson of the Pencil” A younger girl had just a teeny, little pencil with no eraser. She was struggling to draw her picture. The older girl noticed the younger girl needed help. She handed her own pencil to her. They took turns using the pencil. As you do those simple things to help and serve others, you are keeping your covenants.

I can keep my covenants with God.

Jeremiah 31:31–3432:38–41

Jeremiah’s teachings about the new and everlasting covenant of the Lord can help the children you teach strengthen their desire to keep their covenants.

  • Draw a heart on the board, and invite half of the children to read Jeremiah 31:31–34 and the other half to read Jeremiah 32:38–41. Invite the groups to write in the heart things they learn from their verses about our covenants with God. How is having God’s law written in our hearts (see Jeremiah 31:33) different from just reading it in the scriptures? Why do we want to make covenants with the Lord? Why does He want to make covenants with us?
  • To review the covenants we make when we are baptized, invite the children to make a two-column chart on a piece of paper with the headings My Promises and God’s Promises. Ask them to fill in the chart by using the section titled “The Baptismal Covenant” in the Gospel Topics article “Baptism” (topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) or Mosiah 18:10, 13Doctrine and Covenants 20:37. Invite the children to display the paper at home to help them remember to keep their covenants.
  • Jeremiah 31:31–3432:38–41.
  • Consider making a list of things in these verses the Lord promises when we make covenants with Him. What do these verses teach us about the importance of our covenants?
  • Family members could also write (or draw) on paper hearts something that shows how they feel about the Savior. What does it mean to have His law written in our hearts? (see Jeremiah 31:33). How do we show the Lord that we want to be His people?

I can faithfully keep my covenants.

Hosea 2:19–20

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Hosea 1–6; 10–14, Joel” In the book of Hosea, the Lord compared His covenants with the Israelites to a marriage. Despite the Israelites’ unfaithfulness, He still loved them and wanted them to return. This comparison can help you teach the children about the importance of keeping our covenants with the Lord.

  • Tell the children that in the book of Hosea, the Lord compared His covenants with Israel to a marriage. Show the children a picture of a bride and groom. How does Heavenly Father want a husband and wife to treat each other? How can we show the Lord that we love Him and will be faithful to Him?

Media Library “Young Couple Going to the Temple”

  • Help the children understand that the covenants we make with the Lord are meant to last forever. Invite one of the children to read Hosea 2:19–20, looking for words that describe how the Lord feels about His covenants with us. What do we covenant to do when we are baptized? How can we keep this covenant we have made with the Lord?

See also Covenants and Resources for Teaching Children: Covenants

Being Firm in Keeping Our Covenants

Book of Mormon Stories “The People of Ammon” Images

Show the picture of the Anti-Nephi-Lehies burying their swords. Ask the children if they would want to bury their weapons if they knew they were in danger of attack. The people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi knew their enemies were planning to kill them, but they had made a solemn covenant with Heavenly Father that they would not fight. 

Gospel Media “The Anti-Nephi-Lehies Burying Their Swords”

Alma 24:6–24

Perhaps your children would enjoy burying their “weapons” like the Anti-Nephi-Lehies. You could read a few verses from Alma 24:6–24 to teach the children about the promises the Anti-Nephi-Lehies made to follow the Savior. They could then think of something they will change to follow Him, write it on this week’s activity page, and pretend to dig a hole and bury their weapon. (Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 23-29”)

Invite them to write, on the back of the weapons, something they feel they should change in order to follow Jesus Christ more fully. Let them pretend to bury their weapons and make a plan to act on what they wrote.

Primary 4: Book of Mormon “Lesson 19: The Anti-Nephi-Lehies”

Sprinkle the salt or sand on the bottom of the box. With your finger write the word Promise in the salt or sand. Ask the children the following questions:

  • Have you ever made an agreement or promise with someone who broke their part of the promise? (Let the children tell how they felt when the promise was broken as you gently blow on the salt or sand to erase the word.)
  • What do we call a promise we make with Heavenly Father? (A covenant.)
  • When did we make promises to Heavenly Father? (When we were baptized.)

Remind the children that a promise should not be made lightly. Emphasize the importance of keeping your word. Write the word Covenant on the rock with a marker or crayon. Explain that a gospel covenant is a promise between Heavenly Father and his children. Blow on the rock to demonstrate that the word cannot be easily removed. As we make covenants we should remember that they are sacred, and we should be determined to keep them.

Give all the children small rocks, and invite them to write the word covenant on their rock. Explain that a covenant is a promise between Heavenly Father and His children. How do our covenants make us strong or “firm” like a rock? (Alma 24:19). Read together Alma 24:16–25 to learn what covenant the people of Ammon made and how they honored their covenant. Invite the children to take the rocks home as a reminder to keep their covenants. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 23-29”)

Lesson 19: The Anti-Nephi-Lehi’s Covenant Lesson ideas

Your children could read Alma 24:15–19, looking for what the Anti-Nephi-Lehies did “as a testimony to God.” Then you could talk with them about how our covenants can be “a testimony to God” (verse 18). Let your children talk about how they will show God that they want to follow Him. Singing a song like “I Want to Live the Gospel” (Children’s Songbook, 148) could help inspire them. (Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 23-29”)

Explain that the covenants we make are “a testimony to God” that we want to follow God’s commandments (verse 18). What covenants have the children made?

Friend July 2020 “Funstuff: Find It!” The Anti-Nephi-Lehies promised God they would never use weapons to hurt people again. They buried their weapons in the ground as part of their promise. Find 23 weapons in the ground and 30 hearts above the ground.

Friend August 2018 “Family Night Fun” Write a bad habit on a piece of paper. “Bury” the bad habit! Tear up the paper, or bury it outside. You could even plant a flower to represent replacing a bad habit with a good one.

Friend July 2020 “My Family Night Fun”The Anti-Nephi-Lehies made a promise with God that they wouldn’t fight again. They buried their weapons in the ground (see Alma 23:724:17). Take a small piece of paper and write down something you want to stop doing, like fighting or complaining. Share what you wrote, and promise to do your best to stop doing that thing. Then rip the paper into tiny pieces and bury it in the ground.

The Red Crystal

The Lord will always fulfill His promises.

2 Nephi 67:1–2

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “2 Nephi 6-10”

  • Ask the children to talk about some promises they have made, such as a promise they made to a friend or the covenants they made at baptism. Why is it sometimes difficult to keep our promises? Why is it important to keep our promises? Read the following phrase: “The Lord God will fulfil his covenants which he has made unto his children” (2 Nephi 6:12). Share an example of how God kept His promises, even if the blessings did not come right away.
  • Display a picture of Jesus next to a picture of a child. Read 2 Nephi 7:1, and explain that when God’s people stop obeying His gospel, it’s like they have “divorced” Him. Move the picture of the child away from the picture of Jesus to show that when we don’t keep our covenants, such as the covenant of baptism, we separate ourselves from Heavenly Father and the Savior. (To review the covenants of baptism, see Doctrine and Covenants 20:37.) How does the Savior’s Atonement allow us to move back closer to Him? As you discuss this, invite the children to move the pictures close together again.

The Lord Keeps His Promises, Even when They Seem Impossible.

Genesis 18:9–1421:1–7

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 18–23” Even though God had promised that Sarah and Abraham were going to have a son, as they got older it seemed impossible—Abraham was 100 years old, and Sarah was 90 (see Genesis 17:17). How can you use this story to help the children have faith that God will always keep His promises?

Younger Kids

  • Summarize God’s promise to Abraham and Sarah that they would have a child and the fulfillment of this promise (see Genesis 17:15–1918:9–1421:1–7). Or invite a couple in the ward to dress up as Abraham and Sarah and tell their story. Help the children understand that Abraham and Sarah were too old to have children. Ask them the question from Genesis 18:14, “Is any thing too hard for the Lord?” Testify that the Lord can fulfill His promises, even if they seem impossible.

Older kids:

Write on the chalkboard: Is anything too hard for the Lord? Invite the children to discuss this question. Or write each word from the first sentence of Genesis 18:14 on a separate piece of paper, and give one to each child. Then ask the class to put the words in the correct order. Read Genesis 18:9–1421:1–7 with the children to find one example from the lives of Sarah and Abraham when the Lord did something that seemed impossible. What can we learn from the experience of Sarah and Abraham that can encourage us to trust God’s promises?

“Lesson 11: Abraham and Isaac,” Primary 6: Old Testament Show the pictures The Crossing of the Red Sea, Daniel in the Lions’ Den, and Three Men in the Fiery Furnace. Briefly explain that the Lord parted the waters of the Red Sea to let Moses and the Israelites escape from the Egyptian army, he protected Daniel from a den of lions, and he kept three young men from being burned when they were cast into a fiery furnace. (Note: Do not teach these stories in detail. Tell the children that they will learn more about these stories later in the year.) Point out that these people trusted in the Lord and had faith that his will would be done. Their faith was rewarded with miracles.

Abraham and Sarah had a baby boy, just as the Lord promised. They named him Isaac. Genesis 17:921:1–3

Friend February 2022 “Abraham and Sarah”

  • Show a picture of a baptism or of the sacrament (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103104107108). Help the children learn about the promises we make with God, and what God promises in return, when we are baptized and take the sacrament. (See True to the Faith, 23–25.)

The below handout is from Rachel’s Booknook

Friend February 2019 “The Baptism Covenant” Cut out and mix up these cards. Then take turns matching cards that go together. With each match, talk about that part of the baptism covenant.

  • Make a promise to the children that you will fulfill at the end of class (for example, that you will allow them to color a picture). Throughout class, remind them of your promise, and then fulfill it. Explain that the Lord always keeps His promises.
  • Ask the children to share a time when they had to wait for something that they really wanted. With the children, 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.
This video is going too fast during the second verse and you will need to use the pictures below during that part.

Waiting for Blessings

Liahona March 2022 “Turning to God and to Our Families”

Genesis 6–11Moses 8

Genesis and Exodus contain many promises from the Lord, along with stories of people patiently waiting upon those promises. Jacob waits to see the blessing of becoming a great nation. Joseph waits for the Lord to help him out of prison. The children of Israel wait to be freed from the rule of Egypt.

  1. Choose one person to be the leader and have everyone else stand across the room.
  2. When the leader raises a hand, everyone takes steps toward him or her. When the leader puts the hand down, everyone stops. If someone is caught stepping when the leader’s hand is down, that person must go to the back of the room to start again.
  3. The first person to reach the leader gets to be the leader for the next game.

Discussion: Read together Mormon 8:22. As you read Genesis and the following books of the Old Testament this year, take special notice of all the promises of the Lord and when they are fulfilled. Why is it important to recognize promises of the Lord in our own lives and to trust in the Lord while we wait upon those promises?

God will keep His promises to us.

Genesis CHAPTER 9

Noah and his sons are commanded to multiply and fill the earth—They are given dominion over all forms of life—The death penalty is decreed for murder—God will not again destroy the earth by a flood—Canaan is cursed; Shem and Japheth are blessed.

Genesis 9:15–17

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 6–11; Moses 8”

It is important for children to know that God keeps His promises, especially as they prepare to make covenants with Him when they are baptized.

  • Invite the children to draw pictures of rainbows. Read to them Genesis 9:15–16, and ask them to listen for the word remember. Invite them to hold up their rainbows when they hear the word. Explain that rainbows are reminders of the promises God has made to us.
  • Talk with the children about some of God’s promises—for example, that we can return to Heavenly Father if we follow Jesus Christ or that God will send the Holy Ghost to comfort us. Bear your testimony that God always keeps His promises.
  • Use pictures to tell the children about covenants we make with God, such as pictures of a child being baptized, the sacrament, and a temple (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 104108120).

When we are baptized, we make covenants with God to obey His commandments. In Genesis 9:15–17, the rainbow is identified as a reminder of God’s covenant. These verses can inspire the children to seek ways to remember their covenants with God.

  • Show the children something you have that reminds you of something important in your life, such as a wedding ring, a picture, or a journal. Let the children share their own examples. Read together Genesis 9:15–17 (see also Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 9:21–25 [in the Bible appendix]). What does Heavenly Father want us to think about when we see a rainbow?
  • Remind the children of the covenants they made when they were baptized and that they renew each time they take the sacrament (see Mosiah 18:8–10Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79). Let the children draw or create something to remind them of their covenants.

Genesis 9:8–17.

Young children might enjoy drawing or coloring a rainbow while you talk about what it represents (see also Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 9:21–25 [in the Bible appendix]). You might also discuss things that help us remember our covenants, such as the sacrament, which helps us remember our baptismal covenant to follow Jesus Christ (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:75–79).

We Need to Remember Our Covenants.

Tokens or symbols help us remember our covenants with the Lord.

Genesis 9:8–17

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 6–11; Moses 8”

Gospel covenants can be represented by a sign, symbol, or “token” (Genesis 9:12). For example, think about how the bread and water of the sacrament or the waters of baptism bring to mind sacred truths related to your covenants. According to Genesis 9:8–17, what can a rainbow bring to your mind? What does Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 9:21–25 (in the Bible appendix) add to your understanding? Why does the Lord want you to remember Him and the covenants you have made?

Friend February 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Sink or Float?

Story: God told the prophet Noah to build a large boat called an ark. When there was a big flood, Noah, his family, and the animals stayed in the ark while it floated on the water, and they were safe. Today, we can stay safe by following the prophet.

Song: Verse three of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11)

Activity: Fill a bowl with water. Take turns putting leaves, rocks, and other waterproof items in the water. Do they float or sink? Whenever something floats, say something you can do to follow tfrihe prophet.

  • “Keeping My Promise” (August 1998 Liahona and Friend)
    Includes activity to look up scriptures about the signs of a covenant and then draw a line to the picture that represents the scripture. Then color the pictures.

Old Testament Coloring Book “Noah’s Ark”

Friend March 2018

Liahona February 2022 “Teaching about God’s Promises”

For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Covenants” and Resources for Teaching Children “Covenants”

Friend July 2021 “Heavenly Father’s Plan of Happiness”

I Should Always Keep My Promises & Covenants

Doctrine and Covenants 54

As part of the gathering to Ohio, a group of Saints led by Newel Knight arrived from Colesville, New York, and needed a place to live. Leman Copley had a large farm near Kirtland, and he covenanted to allow the Saints to settle on his land. However, soon after they started settling there, Copley wavered in his faith, broke his covenant, and evicted the Saints from his property. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 51–57”

(See Saints, 1:125–28 for full story)

Doctrine and Covenants Scripture Stories “Chapter 21: A Revelation to Settle in Missouri” Images and Video

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 51–57”

Help the children consider how the Saints might have felt when Leman broke his promise. Even though our covenants are personal, our faithfulness in keeping them can affect the lives of others.

Read Doctrine and Covenants 54:6 to learn about a blessing the Lord gives to those who keep their covenants.

  • Cut a paper heart in half, and give each half to two different children. Ask them to hold up their halves together to make a whole heart. Let other children take turns holding up part of the heart. Help the children compare this to the promises or covenants we make with God. God will always hold up His side of the covenant if we hold up ours.

Remind the children of the covenants they made (or will make) when they were baptized (see Mosiah 18:8–10). Help them think of ways they are keeping (or will keep) these covenants, and help them see how this will prepare them to make additional covenants in the future.

Tell the following story about how Darren and Bryon were covenant keepers and then tell ways you have seen each child keep or prepare to keep baptismal covenants. Print the “Covenant Keeper” badges and give one to each child.

Friend May 2017 “Cracking the Code” Darren and Byron crack the code to notes left in their beds that represent  the words “Covenant Keepers.” At FHE they learn ways they have been covenant keepers.

Keeping My Covenants Brings Great Blessings.

Deuteronomy 30:8–10

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34” Like the children of Israel, we need constant reminders to live our covenants. Reading Deuteronomy 30:8–10 can help the children better understand what a covenant is and inspire them to keep their covenants.

  • Ask the children what a covenant is (if they need help, suggest that they find a definition in “Covenant” in the Guide to the Scriptures [scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org]). Draw a two-column chart on the board with these headings: Israelites’ promises and God’s promises. Invite the children to search Deuteronomy 30:8–10 and fill in the chart. (If necessary, help the children understand the meanings of phrases in verse 9.) Testify of blessings that have come to you from keeping your covenants.
  • Invite the children to list on the board the promises we make at baptism and the promises Heavenly Father makes to us (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:37, 77). What can we do to always remember the Savior and keep our covenants?

For Additional Teaching Ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Covenants” and Resources for Teaching Children “Covenants”

Carefully Living My Covenants Brings Blessings.

Doctrine and Covenants 108:3

Ponder how you can help the children you teach “be more careful … in observing [their] vows,” or covenants. How will doing this bless them now and in the future?

  • Invite the children to do something that requires careful attention to be successful, such as trying to fill a cup with water without spilling it over. What happens when we are not careful? Invite them to read Doctrine and Covenants 108:3 and discover what Lyman Sherman was asked to do carefully. List with the children the promises they make with Heavenly Father when they are baptized and partake of the sacrament. Help them think of ways they can be careful about observing these promises.
  • Sing a song with the children about keeping covenants, such as “I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162). Help them make a sign with a phrase from the song that reminds them to keep their covenants, and encourage them to display their sign at home.
  • Give the children portions of Sister Becky Craven’s talk “Careful versus Casual” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 9–11), and ask them to share something that inspires them to be more careful about living their covenants.
  • Invite the children to do something that requires careful attention to be successful, such as trying to fill a cup with water without spilling it over. What happens when we are not careful? Invite them to read Doctrine and Covenants 108:3 and discover what Lyman Sherman was asked to do carefully. List with the children the promises they make with Heavenly Father when they are baptized and partake of the sacrament. Help them think of ways they can be careful about observing these promises.
  • Sing a song with the children about keeping covenants, such as “I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162). Help them make a sign with a phrase from the song that reminds them to keep their covenants, and encourage them to display their sign at home.
  • Give the children portions of Sister Becky Craven’s talk “Careful versus Casual” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 9–11), and ask them to share something that inspires them to be more careful about living their covenants.

Friend February 2019 “The Baptism Covenant” Cut out and mix up these cards. Then take turns matching cards that go together. With each match, talk about that part of the baptism covenant.

Friend September 2021 “Trying to Help Like Jesus” The prophet said the Lord loves effort, so Emilie tries hard to follow Jesus. She helps her mom and brothers, she prays for others, she tries to set good examples, and she tries to do the things she learns at church.

Baptismal Covenants

Friend March 2023 “Baptismal Covenants”

Friend January 2024 “You Can Make a Difference” President Susan H. Porter, Primary General President talks about how to keep Baptismal covenants by serving and lifting others.

Who can I help today? Write your ideas on your paper chain!

Taking on the Name of Christ

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

Do your family members’ names have special meaning? Maybe you could talk about why names are important and what it means to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ (see Mosiah 5:7). This could be a good opportunity to help family members prepare to take Christ’s name upon themselves when they are baptized.

Friend April 1988 “A Name to Live up to” Jenny is sad that she isn’t named after someone whom she could try to be like–someone who did great deeds–but she is reminded that she took on the name of Jesus when she was baptized.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mosiah 4-6”

Talk to the children about why people put their names on things, such as school assignments, sports jerseys, and so on (see Mosiah 5:14–15). How can we show that we have Christ’s name “written always in [our] hearts”? (Mosiah 5:12).

Friend February 2021 “Your Baptism Covenant”

Friend February 2021 “Your Baptism Covenant”

Friend February 2021 “Bright Idea”

Friend February 2021 “My Baptism Promise” Song and Video

1. Jesus loved His Heavenly Father And obeyed Him perfectly, Joining John in Jordan’s water, Baptized by authority. He showed the way; I’ll follow Him From the water to my heav’nly home again.

2. When I’m baptized by immersion, I commit to be like Him, Love and comfort those in need and Stand for Christ wherever I am. The Holy Ghost will guide my way As I try to honor my Savior every day.

3. After I have made this promise, I’ll continue faithfully On the path of cov’nant keeping, Seeking greater light and peace. Repenting and remembering Him Through the sacrament, I can feel washed clean again.

Teaching Children the Gospel “Mosiah 18-24: Alma Baptizes at the Waters of Mormon” Lesson, story, and activity ideas about the scripture story, baptism, and baptism covenants

Friend August 2019 “Ready to Be Baptized” Story with idea on how to remember baptism covenants. Also includes

Friend November 2019 “Conference News” “Our promise to always remember the Savior gives us strength to stand for truth and righteousness.”

Galatians 6:2

As I make covenants with God, I take upon myself the name of Christ.

Mosiah 5:5–15

Friend May 2024 “Who Is King Benjamin?”

Screenshot

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mosiah 4-6” Explain that King Benjamin taught his people that when we make covenants, or promises, with God, it’s like having the name of Christ “written always in [our] hearts” (Mosiah 5:12). What do we promise to do when we are baptized and take the sacrament? (see Mosiah 5:8Doctrine and Covenants 20:37, 77, 79).

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Mosiah 4-6

Your children might enjoy creating badges displaying the name “Jesus Christ” and wearing them over their hearts (see this week’s activity page). While they do so, you could read to them Mosiah 5:12 and talk about how making covenants, or promises, with God is like having the name of Christ “written always in [our] hearts.”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mosiah 4-6”

Ask the children what they would do to become friends with someone (for example, talk with them, do things with them, and spend time with them). Read Mosiah 5:13 to the children. What can we do to come to know Jesus Christ better so He’s not a “stranger” to us?

  • Draw a circle on the board, and place a picture of Jesus Christ in the center of the circle. Invite the children to draw pictures of themselves as you read Mosiah 5:8 together. What does this verse say we should take upon ourselves? What have we “entered into”? Invite the children to write Christ’s name on the pictures of themselves and place the pictures in the circle with the Savior. What covenants do we make when we are baptized and take the sacrament? (see Mosiah 18:8–9Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79).

Friend February 2021 “Your Baptism Covenant”

  • Talk to the children about why people put their names on things, such as school assignments, sports jerseys, and so on (see Mosiah 5:14–15). How can we show that we have Christ’s name “written always in [our] hearts”? (Mosiah 5:12).
  • What does taking the name of Christ upon us suggest about our relationship with Him? It might help to talk about why people sometimes write their names on their belongings. How can we show that we “belong” to the Savior?

Friend April 1988 “A Name to Live up to” Jenny is sad that she isn’t named after someone whom she could try to be like–someone who did great deeds–but she is reminded that she took on the name of Jesus when she was baptized.

Primary 4: Book of Mormon “King Benjamin Teaches His People” Write the family names of the children in your class on the chalkboard. Ask the children to explain why they have these names.

  • What does being a (use family name) mean to you?

Explain that when we are born into a family, we take upon ourselves a family name. This name may represent many important things, such as our heritage, our beliefs, the way we do things, and so on. When we are baptized, we become members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ. When we take the name of Jesus Christ upon us, we are declaring our belief in him and our willingness to follow his teachings. Explain that King Benjamin was a prophet who taught the importance of taking upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ.

Liahona April 2020 “What Does It Mean to Have the Name of Christ Written in Our Hearts?” In the Book of Mormon, people are called by many names—Nephites, Lamanites, and Anti-Nephi-Lehies are just a few. But King Benjamin desired his people to be called by a higher, holier name—the name of Jesus Christ. Here is how we can keep the Savior’s name “written always in [our] hearts” (Mosiah 5:12):

Bear One Another’s Burdens

Show a picture of a child being baptized (such as Gospel Art Book, no. 104). Ask the children what the child is doing. Explain that when we are baptized, we make covenants, or promises. Read Galatians 6:2 or Mosiah 18:8 to help the children learn one of the things we promise to do: bear one another’s burdens. Invite the children to draw pictures of ways they can help others who are carrying burdens. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Galatians” )

Friend May 2020 “Ali’s Head Start” Ali learns that when she is baptized she will be covenanting (promising) to bear one another’s burdens, (or in other words, she will be promising to help those who are going through a hard time). Ali decides to get a head start on her covenants when she sees children without hair as she walked through the hospital to go visit a friend. She decides to donate some of her long hair so those children can have wigs. 

Friend August 2023 “My Baptismal Covenant”

Read to the children this phrase from Galatians 6:2: “Bear ye one another’s burdens.” To illustrate what this means, give one of the children something heavy to carry. Then ask for a volunteer to help the child carry the object. Explain to the children that many things can feel like a burden, such as being sick or feeling sad or lonely. What could we do to help a person with this kind of burden? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Galatians”)

The Red Crystal

I’ll Walk With You

Friend September 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones” Help your little ones say, “Jesus wants me to help those in need.” Tell them that people in need might be those who are sick, hurt, or lonely. Think of what you can do as a family to help others.

Comfort Those in Need of Comfort

Heavenly Father comforts me, and I can comfort others. (Jr)

2 Corinthians 1:3–4

Show the children some things that provide comfort, such as a blanket or bandage. Ask the children what comforts them when they are sad or afraid or have other problems. Read 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 with the children, and explain that “tribulation” is another word for really hard problems. Share some ways Heavenly Father has comforted you, and testify that He will comfort the children as well. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

Image by Freepik

The Red Crystal

Friend March 2019 “Missing Mom and Dad” Dylan’s mom and dad were going on a trip, and he was going to stay with his grandparents. He loved staying with his grandparents, but for some reason he was scared about being away from his mom and dad for so long. He decided to pray for help, and he received comforting thoughts and feelings.

Show pictures of people being baptized (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–4) while you read 2 Corinthians 1:4 to the children. Explain that when we are baptized, we promise to comfort others. How can we follow Paul’s counsel to “comfort them which are in any trouble”? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

Friend March 2021 “Jesus Comforted Others”

Friend September 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones” Give each of your little ones a long hug. Help them find words to tell you how it feels to be wrapped in a long, tender hug. Teach them that God loves us and wants to show us how much He cares.

Heavenly Father comforts me, and I can comfort others. (Sr)

We all experience heartache and sorrow, setbacks and obstacles, and discomfort and sickness. When the people of Corinth experienced hardship, Paul wrote to Church members there to offer continued support and counsel. He testified of the comfort and peace available to them through Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (see 2 Corinthians 1:3–4). This lesson can help you to understand some of the ways God provides comfort to His children and to identify ways in which you can share His comfort with others. (New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “2 Corinthians 1; 4”)

2 Corinthians 1:3–4

As you read 2 Corinthians 1:3–4, ask the children to listen for an answer to the question “What does God do for us?” Help the children list ways in which God comforts us. Invite the children to share experiences when they were sad or worried or afraid and God comforted them. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

He gives us thoughts in our mind and feelings in our heart through the Holy Ghost.

  1. A feeling that Heavenly Father and Jesus loves us.
  2. A feeling of comfort when we are sad or lonely
  3. A good feeling when we hear beautiful music or see inspiring art
  4. A peaceful feeling that everything is going to be okay.
  • He also sends people to help and comfort us.
  • God’s words, such as in the Scriptures, can also touch our hearts and help comfort us.

Invite the children to share ways we can keep our baptismal covenant to comfort others (see Mosiah 18:9). Give them time to think of someone they know who needs comfort and make a plan to reach out to that person. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

Friend August 2022 “Jesus Promised Us Comfort”

I Renew My Baptism Covenants When I Take the Sacrament

Friend February 2021 “The Savior and Me” Fill out the page and look at it during the sacrament to remember Jesus and the covenant you made.

I can prepare to make sacred covenants/ I can “cleave unto the covenants” I have made.

Doctrine and Covenants 25:13, 15

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 23–26: “Strengthen the Church”

Soon after Emma Smith was baptized, the Lord told her, “Cleave unto the covenants which thou hast made.”

  • Read Doctrine and Covenants 25:13 to the children. Explain that the word “cleave” in this verse means to hold tightly to something. To help them understand, pass something solid, like a rock (or even an iron rod), around the room and invite the children to hold the object as tightly as they can. Explain that cleaving to our covenants means holding on to (or keeping) the promises we make with Heavenly Father and never letting go (or never giving up). (Or to illustrate, pass around objects that are firmly fastened together and let the children try to tear them apart. Why is the word “cleave” a good word to describe how we should feel about our covenants?) Use this week’s activity page to teach the children about the times when we make covenants with Heavenly Father. (Or if needed, review with the children the covenants we make when we are baptized (see Mosiah 18:8–10Doctrine and Covenants 20:37). What does it mean to “cleave” to these covenants?) Read Doctrine and Covenants 25:15, and explain that the “crown of righteousness” represents the blessing of returning to live with God, our Heavenly King.

I Can Keep My Promises.

Doctrine and Covenants 39–40

Invite the children to read the section headings for Doctrine and Covenants 39 and 40, and ask them to summarize in words or drawings what they learn about James Covel.What did James Covel covenant to do? Why didn’t he keep his covenant? 

Help the children remember the promises they made when they were baptized (see Mosiah 18:8–10). Help the children list some fears or “cares of the world” (Doctrine and Covenants 40:2) that might prevent a person from keeping these promises. Invite the children to write themselves a short message as a reminder that obeying Heavenly Father’s commandments will help them overcome fears or worldly cares. Encourage them to keep their reminder someplace where they can see it often.Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 37–40”

Friend May 2024 “Cover” Keeping Baptism Covenants

Latter Day Kids “Promises and Covenants” Lesson ideas

Keeping My Covenants

Friend May 2024 “A Chat with Isabela about Covenants” Isabela keeps her covenants by repenting and taking the sacrament each week. She also serves in a calling in her Young Women’s class, and tries to take it seriously. She also keeps her covenants by serving others.

Fear of Persecution/ Peer Pressure

Friend April 2019 “What’s on Your Mind” Fill in the the speaking bubbles with what you could say when someone tries to get you to do something that is not right. Try explaining why it’s important to you. Even if others don’t understand your reasons, ask them to be respectful.

Repentance is Part of Keeping Baptismal Covenants

Friend March 2023 “Keeping His Promise” Happiness was excited to make his baptismal covenants. After his baptism he felt so good inside! He wanted to feel this clean and happy forever. He never wanted to make a wrong choice again. But a few days later he told a lie to his father and felt bad felt bad for breaking his baptismal promise. He told his father what he had done. He father forgave him and told him, “When you were baptized, you didn’t promise to be perfect. You promised to try hard to follow Jesus. When we repent, Heavenly Father forgives us. Then we can be just as clean as we were the day we were baptized. Repenting is part of keeping your baptism promise.”


Doctrine and Covenants 71–75

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Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”

Ever since he was a boy, Joseph Smith faced critics—even enemies—as he tried to do God’s work. But it must have been particularly heartrending in late 1831 when Ezra Booth began publicly berating the Church, because in this case the critic was a former believer. Ezra had seen Joseph use God’s power to heal a woman. He had been invited to accompany Joseph on the first survey of the land of Zion in Missouri. But he had since lost his faith and, in an attempt to discredit the Prophet, published a series of letters in an Ohio newspaper. And his efforts seemed to be working: “unfriendly feelings … had developed against the Church” in the area (Doctrine and Covenants 71, section heading). What should believers do in a case like that? While there is not one right answer for every situation, it seems that quite often—including in this case in 1831—part of the Lord’s answer is to defend the truth and correct falsehoods by “proclaiming [the] gospel” (verse 1). Yes, the Lord’s work will always have critics, but in the end, “no weapon that is formed against [it] shall prosper” (verse 9). (See “Ezra Booth and Isaac Morley,” Revelations in Context, 134.)

I Can Defend the Truth by Sharing My Testimony.

Doctrine and Covenants 71

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”

The Lord does not expect children to respond to critics of the Church as He called Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon to do. But you can help the children understand that their simple testimony of the truth can have a powerful effect on others.

  • Use the section heading for Doctrine and Covenants 71 to teach the children about the circumstances that inspired section 71. Read Doctrine and Covenants 71:1 with the children, and help them find what the Lord wanted Joseph and Sidney to do about the “unfriendly feelings” people had toward the Church. What did He say they would be given to help them? How can we be like Joseph and Sidney?
  • Invite the children to practice in pairs how to share with others what they know about the Church. For example, they can share a simple testimony or share one of the Articles of Faith.

The Lord has Called a Bishop to Help Me.

Doctrine and Covenants 72:2, 10

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”

Little children may not know a lot about what their bishop does to serve them and other ward members. You can help them appreciate their bishop’s service.

  • Bring items to class that represent the responsibilities of a bishop, such as a tithing slip, the scriptures, or a picture of a bishop giving counsel (see the picture at the end of this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Read Doctrine and Covenants 72:2, and explain that the Lord has called a bishop to help us. Use the items you brought to help the children understand some of the things a bishop does to serve the ward.
  • “A Day with the Bishop” (August 1990 Liahona and July 1989 Friend)
    Explains some of the things a bishop does. Includes an activity.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”

  • Take the children on a walk to the bishop’s office (you may want to coordinate with other teachers). Describe for them some situations when they might meet with the bishop in his office (such as a baptismal interview or tithing settlement). Tell the children how you have been blessed by the bishop’s service.
  • Help the children make cards to give to the bishop, thanking him for what he does to help with the Lord’s work.

Friend June 2021 “Scripture Time Fun” Secret Service for Bishop

  • Sing “Teach Me to Walk in the Light” (Children’s Songbook,177).
  • Jesus taught that His Church should have bishops to lead and help the members (see Doctrine and Covenants 72:2).
  • Say thanks to your bishop or branch president by doing something kind. You could write him nice notes or bring him a treat. You could even do your plan without letting him know who did it!

The Lord Calls Bishops to Help Him Do His Work.

Doctrine and Covenants 72:8

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”

A bishop can have a strong positive influence in the life of a young person. What can you do to help the children see the bishop as a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ?

  • Explain that in 1831 the Lord called the bishop of the Church, Edward Partridge, to move from Kirtland, Ohio, to be the bishop in Independence, Missouri. Read Doctrine and Covenants 72:8 with the children, and ask them to listen for who the Lord called to serve as the new bishop in Kirtland. Why does the Lord call bishops? Share with the children an experience when you were blessed by the service of a bishop.
  • Invite the children to make a list of some of the things they have seen the bishop do to help people in the ward. Ask the children to draw pictures of the bishop doing something they mentioned. Bear your testimony that your bishop was called by the Lord to be His servant. Why are we grateful that the Lord has called a bishop in our ward?
  • “Bishop, Help!” (April 2004 Friend)
    Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles teaches us about the special calling of a bishop.

I Can Give My Best Effort to the Lord.

Doctrine and Covenants 75:3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”

  • Invite each child to take a turn acting out how they would do an act of service, such as cleaning a room in the church or washing dishes at home. Read Doctrine and Covenants 75:3, and ask the children to show how they would do it lazily when you say “neither be idle” and show how to work hard when you say “but labor with your might.” Why is it important that we do our best when serving the Lord?
  • Share with the children President Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s stories about work from “Two Principles for Any Economy” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, 55–58). How do we feel when we know we have done our best?
  • Sing a song about working together, such as “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198). Help the children make up actions to go with the words. Or sing the song: “Let Us All Press On,” Hymns, no. 243.

I Can Labor With All My Might and Not be Idle

Friend July 2016 Picking thorny blackberries was not fun, but a boy learned about responsibility and the rewards of work.

image

Friend June 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Help your little ones say, “I can work hard!” Teach your children a household chore they can help with, like sweeping or putting away their toys.

Latter Day Kids “Labor with Your Might” Lesson ideas to go with the video

The Lord Commanded Joseph Smith to Restore Precious Truths that were Lost from the Bible.

Doctrine and Covenants 73:3

Friend May 2009 “Restoring Plain and Precious Truths”

As part of his calling as the prophet, Joseph Smith was commanded by the Lord to make inspired revisions to the Bible. These revisions, which the Lord called a “translation” (Doctrine and Covenants 90:13), restored important truths that had been lost or removed from the Bible over the centuries.

  • Explain that when Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon returned from a short mission near Kirtland, Ohio, the Lord wanted them to resume work on an important project. Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 73:3 to find out what that project was. To help the children understand what the Lord wanted Joseph and Sidney to translate, read with them parts of the Bible Dictionary entry “Joseph Smith Translation (JST).”
  • Pass around a copy of the Bible, and allow the children to open it and see how many pages are in it. Invite the children to imagine they were asked to translate the Bible into another language. What are the chances they might make some mistakes? Explain that when people translated or copied the Bible before Joseph Smith’s time, they made some mistakes, and sometimes they removed important truths. The Lord commanded the Prophet Joseph Smith to make inspired corrections. Why is Joseph Smith’s work valuable to us? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”)

Would your family benefit from learning about the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible? (see Bible Dictionary, “Joseph Smith Translation”). You could explore a few of the passages that were revised in the Joseph Smith Translation and discuss the precious truths the Lord revealed through the Prophet. For some examples, see the Joseph Smith Translation of Genesis 14:25–40 and Genesis 50:24–38 in the Bible appendix; various footnotes in Matthew 4:1–11; and Luke 2:46, footnote c. (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”)

Additional Teaching Ideas: Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 20: Joseph Smith Translates the Bible and Other Scriptures,”  

The Lord Blesses Those who Faithfully Proclaim His Gospel.

Doctrine and Covenants 75

Additional Resources

Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”


Doctrine and Covenants 67-70

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Attention Activity

Collect all the copies of the Doctrine and Covenants in the room and put them in a stack near you on the table or floor. Write on the chalkboard Doctrine and Covenants 43:8. Ask the children to discuss this verse among themselves and prepare to tell you what the verse is about. Do not let them use their scriptures as they do this. After a few moments, ask them if they are ready to tell you about the verse.

  • Why can’t you tell me what the verse is about?

Return the children’s copies of the Doctrine and Covenants, and give copies to the children who have not brought their own. Have all the children look up the verse listed on the chalkboard and follow along as you read it.

Explain that the early Church members were instructed to teach each other about the revelations the Lord had given them through the Prophet Joseph Smith, but the Church members did not have a book where they could read the revelations. The Lord commanded the Church members to publish the revelations in a book so that they would be able to read and study them. We now call this book the Doctrine and Covenants. (Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 22: The Latter-day Revelations Are Published,”)

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 67–70”

From 1828 to 1831, the Prophet Joseph Smith received many revelations from the Lord, including divine counsel for individuals, instructions on governing the Church, and inspiring visions of the latter days. But many of the Saints hadn’t read them. The revelations weren’t yet published, and the few available copies were handwritten on loose sheets that were circulated among members and carried around by missionaries.

Then, in November 1831, Joseph called a council of Church leaders to discuss publishing the revelations. After seeking the Lord’s will, these leaders made plans to publish the Book of Commandments—the precursor to today’s Doctrine and Covenants. Soon everyone would be able to read for themselves the word of God revealed through a living prophet, vivid evidence that “the keys of the mysteries of the kingdom of our Savior are again entrusted to man.” For these and many other reasons, Saints then and now consider these revelations to be “worth … the riches of the whole Earth” (Doctrine and Covenants 70, section heading).

Scripture Stories: Doctrine and Covenants “Chapter 23: The Doctrine and Covenants” Images and Video

The Doctrine and Covenants Contains Revelations from God.

Doctrine and Covenants 67

William E. McLellin Tries to Write a Revelation

During one of these conferences, some of the Church leaders at the conference complained about the language of some of the revelations that Joseph Smith had received. They thought they could write better revelations. In response the Lord gave the revelation recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 67, testifying that the revelations Joseph Smith had received were true (see D&C 67:4) and challenging anyone who would like to try to write a revelation to do so (see D&C 67:5–8). William E. McLellin took this challenge and tried to write a revelation. Joseph Smith recorded that Brother McLellin thought he was smart enough to write a revelation, but he could not do it. The Prophet said that it is “an awful [great and important] responsibility to write in the name of the Lord” (History of the Church,1:226). All those present who saw Brother McLellin’s failure were strengthened in their testimony that the revelations Joseph Smith had received were true and had come from the Lord.

For the Strength of Youth June 2021 “The Prophet’s Words Are True”

Why couldn’t William E. McLellin write a revelation? Who was the only person authorized to receive revelation for the Church at that time? (D&C 28:2.) Who receives revelation for the Church today? (The living prophet.) (Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 22: The Latter-day Revelations Are Published,”)

Friend June 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Find pictures of the prophet on the Church’s website or in the Church magazines. Help your little ones say, “The prophet teaches God’s word.”

Explain to the children that the Church leaders at this time decided to publish their testimony of the revelations Joseph Smith had received. When they did, one of the leaders, Levi Hancock, wrote next to his name, “Never to be erased” (see “Testimony, circa 2 November 1831,” Revelation Book 1, 121, josephsmithpapers.org). Why might Levi Hancock have wanted his name “never to be erased” from the published testimony? Give the children an opportunity to write their testimonies of what they’ve learned so far in the Doctrine and Covenants. (Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 22: The Latter-day Revelations Are Published,”)

What Makes the Doctrine and Covenants Similar and Unique to Other Standard Works

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 22: The Latter-day Revelations Are Published,”

Show the children each of the standard works one at a time, and as you hold each one up share a little about how we got it. For example:

The Bible tells us about prophecies of Jesus Christ and about the Savior’s life and teachings when he was on the earth.

The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ and tells us about the Savior’s dealings with the people on the American continent.

The Doctrine and Covenants is a collection of revelations from Jesus Christ for the latter days, or our times.

The Pearl of Great Price gives us teachings and testimonies of Jesus Christ from ancient prophets as well as Joseph Smith’s history and testimony of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

Game

Give each child four small pieces of paper, and show the children how to fold each piece in half so it resembles a book. Help the children label their “books” Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price.Ask the following questions and have the children hold up the appropriate paper “book” to answer each question:

Which book tells the most about the dealings of the Lord with his people in the Holy Land, beginning with the creation of the earth? (Bible.)

Which book tells about Jesus Christ’s visit to the American continent? (Book of Mormon.)

Which book tells the most about Jesus Christ’s birth and life on earth? (Bible.)

Which book contains a record of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ’s appearance to Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove? (Pearl of Great Price.)

Which book contains revelations on how the Church should be established in the latter days, given by Jesus Christ to Joseph Smith? (Doctrine and Covenants.) Remind the children that each of the standard works is a testament of Jesus Christ and that we should study all of the scriptures.

Hold up the Doctrine and Covenants, share with the children what makes this book of scripture unique (for example, it contains revelations given in our day).

Game

On cards or small pieces of paper, make two copies each of simple pictures or words representing principles or events discussed in the Doctrine and Covenants, such as the baptism ordinance, sacrament prayers, word of wisdom, Restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood by John the Baptist, and Priesthood leadership organization of the Church (prophets, apostles, bishops, etc. Place the cards or papers face down in a grid on the floor or table. Let the children take turns turning over a pair of cards to try to make a match. If a child makes a match, have him or her give one reason why it is important for that principle to be part of the restored church. If a child does not make a match, have him or her return the cards to their original positions so another child can have a turn.

I Can Be “True and Faithful.”

Doctrine and Covenants 69:1–2

Story

Oliver Cowdery was assigned to take approximately seventy revelations to Independence, Missouri, where William W. Phelps had a printing press. Oliver also took money to help the Saints in Missouri. Because Oliver would be traveling through unsettled country, the Lord told John Whitmer to go with him for safety (see D&C 69:1–2).

When Oliver Cowdery needed to travel to Missouri, the Lord called John Whitmer, someone who was “true and faithful” (verse 1), to go with him. How can the children be true and faithful like John Whitmer?

  • Tell the children that when the Lord sent Oliver Cowdery to Missouri, He said that someone “true and faithful” (verse 1) should go with him, so He also sent John Whitmer. What does it mean to be true and faithful? How can we make sure we are true and faithful so that the Lord can use us to bless others?
  • Invite a few children to tell about someone they know who they think is “true and faithful.” How do they know that person is true and faithful? Help them see that the Lord trusted John Whitmer because he was, at this time, true and faithful (see Doctrine and Covenants 69:1–2). Sing together a song that encourages the children to be true and faithful like the Savior, such as “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 67–70”)

Why is it important to be with people “who will be true and faithful”? (verse 1). When have friends influenced us to make good or bad decisions? How can we be a good influence on others?

Liahona June 2021 “The Godhead and Loving Others”

Follow the Prophet

Oliver Cowdery was appointed to carry the manuscript of the Book of Commandments to Independence, Missouri. The Lord asked John Whitmer to accompany him (see Doctrine and Covenants 69:2).

  1. Pretend that the Lord commanded you to deliver the manuscript of the Book of Commandments (which later became the Doctrine and Covenants). 
  2. What would you need to do to care for this important book?
  3. Think of a time someone trusted you to complete an important task. 
  4. What steps did you take to accomplish the task?

Discussion: Why is it important to follow the direction of Church leaders? How can following our prophet and other Church leaders protect us?

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 22: The Latter-day Revelations Are Published,”

It was a long, cold journey, but in January 1832 Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer arrived safely in Independence. They delivered the revelations to Brother Phelps, who started to set the type to publish them as the Book of Commandments. By July 1833 the first 160 pages of the Book of Commandments had been printed.

Because many Saints were arriving in Missouri, some of the original settlers of the area were uneasy. They began to fear that the Saints would take over the area, elect their own officials, and drive the original settlers off the land. On Saturday, 20 July 1833, four or five hundred people who were against the Saints met in the Independence courthouse. The people formed a mob and demanded that the Saints leave their new homes or be killed. The leaders of the Church in Missouri asked for three months to consult with Joseph Smith, who was in Ohio, but the mob refused this request. The Saints were told they had only fifteen minutes to decide what to do.

Before the fifteen minutes had passed, the mob broke into William W. Phelps’s home, which contained the printing office where the Book of Commandments was being printed. Brother Phelps was not at home. Sister Phelps took her sick baby and her other children and hurried to the woods nearby. Fourteen-year-old Mary Elizabeth Rollins and her twelve-year-old sister, Caroline, watched members of the mob throw the Phelpses’ furniture and other possessions into the street. The mob then threw the press and the type out the window, along with most of the unbound pages of the Book of Commandments. Mary Elizabeth and Caroline courageously decided to save some of the copies, even though Caroline was afraid that the mob would kill them (show the picture of Mary Elizabeth and Caroline saving the Book of Commandments).

The girls ran from their hiding place, gathered up as many pages as they could carry, and ran away. When the mobbers saw them, they shouted for the girls to stop. Mary Elizabeth and Caroline slipped through a hole in a fence and ran into a cornfield. They lay quietly on the ground among the cornstalks, listening to the men searching for them. When the sound of footsteps faded and the girls thought it was safe to leave, they gathered the papers in their arms again and began to find their way out of the field. As they approached an old log stable, they heard sounds. They entered the stable carefully and discovered Sister Phelps and her children making beds from branches so they could hide for the night in the stable. Knowing Brother Phelps would know what to do with the pages, the girls gave them to Sister Phelps. Later some of these original sheets of the Book of Commandments were bound into books, and Mary Elizabeth and Caroline were each given a copy. They treasured these books for the rest of their lives.

Friend June 2021 “The Rollins Sisters Save the Day!”

Friend June 2017 “The Book of Commandments” Two sisters save the printed book of commandments from a mob.

Doctrine and Covenants 70:1–4.

The Lord gave certain elders the responsibility to oversee the publishing of the revelations. Even though we do not have that specific responsibility, in what sense could we be considered “stewards over the revelations and commandments”? (verse 3). (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 67–70”)

I Can be Baptized When I Am Eight Years Old.

Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 67–70”

In Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28, the Lord told Joseph Smith that children should learn to have faith in Jesus Christ, repent, and be baptized when they are eight years old. He also said that they should learn to pray and keep God’s commandments.

Why age 8? Old enough to understand the doctrine of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ and prepared and ready to make sacred covenants.

  • Invite the children to count to eight using their fingers. What is special about being eight years old? Help the children recognize that when they are eight years old, they can be baptized. Using words and phrases found in Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28, share with them some of the things the Lord wants them to learn about before they are eight (see also Articles of Faith 1:4). Help them understand concepts that might not be familiar to them.
  • Sing with the children a song about baptism, such as “Baptism” or “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook,100–101, 103). Ask the children to share how they feel about being baptized and what they can do to prepare.

Friend June 2021 “Scripture Time Fun” Find items around your home that remind you of baptism. A cup of water could remind you of how we are baptized by immersion. A piece of white cloth could remind you of how we wear white. A blanket could remind you of the warm feeling of the Holy Ghost. What else can you think of?

Latter Day Kids “Baptism Symbols” Lesson Ideas and Videos

When our Church leaders speak by inspiration, they speak “the word of the Lord.”

Doctrine and Covenants 68:3–4

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 67–70”

When the Lord’s servants speak by the power of the Holy Ghost, their words are the will, mind, word, and voice of the Lord (see verse 4). Knowing this truth can help the children want to listen to and follow their teachings.

  • Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 68:3–4 in small groups and share with each other what they learn from these verses. Invite the children to write something they learned on the board. Why is this an important truth to know?
  • After reading Doctrine and Covenants 68:3–4 together, give the children copies of several recent messages from general conference. Invite them to find in the messages truths that the Lord taught us through His servants.

Additional Resources

Saints, 1:140–43