Friend October 2024 “An Important Quest” Javi’s father taught him how to find names on family search and explained that many of them lived a long time ago, and they didn’t have the gospel. Their stake had a contest to find names to take to the temple. Javi was excited to help so that his ancestors could be baptized and have the chance to accept the gospel. Javi found 216 names and won the child’s prize.
How to Do Family History
Friend September 2019 “Family History, Step by Step” Mei finds a photo of her great-great grandmother and learns more about her. Then she and her mom put the information she had learned onto familysearch.org. Finally, Mei went to the temple as was baptized for her.
Family History Stories Strengthens Descendants
Friend June 2022 “No Place Like Home” Sister Wright tells of her family history and how they lived at the base of the mountain Ben Lomond. Her grandmother would say that as long as they could see the mountain they were home. She also said it reminder her to be strong, brave, and faithful like her grandmother.
Friend September 2018 “Just Like Grandpa” William’s dad received a calling to preside over the sign language branch. William is sad he will have to leave his friends, but his mom helps him by telling him a story about his great grandfather Turner who sacrificed to obey the Lord.
Friend July 2018 “Detective Danny Does It Again!” Detective Danny solves mysteries, but when he runs out of mysteries his father suggests he solve family history mysteries. Detective Danny was on the case. He looked for clues in family journals, he searched online for old records and pictures, and he found missing family members on the family tree.
Family History Calling
Friend February 2023 “Marco’s New Calling” Marco had just moved from Primary to Young Men’s and the bishop extended a calling to him to serve as a family history consultant. He received some training and then worked on his own family history and got some names prepared to take to the temple for baptisms, including a much loved aunt who had died. He was excited to help others with their family history. He shared his testimony of family history at a Church activity, and he invited other youth in their ward to come with his family on their temple trip.
Love of Family History
Friend May 2018 “Spirit of Eliza” Eliza is asked to give a talk about family history. Her love of family history helps her with the anxiety she feels about talking, and she is able to share about the importance of family history.
Friend February 2018 “Family History Fun” Experiences of Cole, who loves doing family history.
Friend October 2017 “Finding Lydia” Lydia isn’t excited to be graduating from Primary and going to Young Women’s, but she becomes more excited when her mother finds some family names for her to do baptisms for in the temple, and one is named Lydia.
Friend November 2021 “Family History Blessings” Antonella got a Family Search account when she was baptized. She’s learned more about her family and loves her family even more now. She also wants to help others unite their families for eternity.
Fun with Family History
Friend May 2020 “Family History Party” A family has a family history party where they play Family Tree Trivia, The Great Index Race, and Family History Story Time.
Friend February 2017 “The Treasure Box” Some children are excited to see what is in their father’s treasure box. At family home evening they discover it is filled with personal history items.
Friend November 2016 “The Great Family History Mystery” A family searches for the gravestone of a great grandfather.
Names to Temple
Friend October 2019 “The Temple Challenge” Sister Jones, the general primary president, challenges a 12 year old boy to find a family name to take to the temple. He later writes to her letter telling of his success and of his opportunity to be baptized in the temple for his 3rd great grandfather and how that felt. He also tells her of his desire to do more.
Friend October 2016 ” My Family Tree” A seven year old takes the stake challenge to find five names of ancestors who need temple work.
Friend July 2015 “Temple Time” Boy helps his with family history on computer so parents can do the family members work at temple.
Family Search
Friend October 2018 “As soon as I was baptized, my mom helped me log on to FamilySearch, and we discovered that I am related to the first president of the Philippines! During sharing time at school, I shared this discovery. My teacher was amazed how I was able to know that.Sharmaine S., age 8, Cavite, Philippines”
Photos of Family
Friend January 1987 Jessica wants a tin type (photo) of her family, especially of her grandfather who is dying.
Family Trees
Friend October 2017 “Ashlyn’s Family Tree” Ashlyn is excited to learn where family members go on her family tree that she got in Primary. She adds her siblings to make her family that she loves complete.
Friend November 2021 “Tell Me an Adventure” At bedtime, Sam wanted to hear a story about when his mom was little. She told him about making pretend towns with her siblings.
Remembering Family
Sharing Stories about Family
Friend August 2023 “The Family Story Activity” The children in Lorrain’s primary were learning about their family history so they could share the stories at a Primary activity. Lorrain learned about being named after her great grandmother and about her father traveling to the temple to be sealed to his family when he was six. Before the Primary activity they heard some exciting news. A temple would be built in on their island!
Friend January 2021 “Family Story Time” María loves to learn about her family! Every night Mamá tells her a family story. “Find It”: María and her brother are giving a home evening lesson about their family history. Find the listed items in the picture.
Friend November 2021 “Helaman Wonders” Helaman wondered what kinds of games people played outside long time ago. He sent his grandparents emails to find out what their favorite things were to do outside when they were kids. Helaman kept wondering. Every time he wondered, he asked his grandparents a question. And he learned a lot about them! His father suggested they put the stories on family search.
Remembering & Learning about Family Members Who Have Died
Share Stories About Them
Friend January 2021 “Missing Grandma and Grandpa” Zoe’s grandparents had died before she was born. Everyone in the family had memories of them but her. She was sad she had never met them. Her father decides to have a family lesson to help her get to know them better. After the lesson her parents gave her a picture of her grandparents to help her feel closer to them. She was excited to meet them someday.
Friend February 2024 “A Happy Lunar New Year” Claire and her family celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year. Not only is it a time to enjoy the fun holiday traditions, it is also a time to spend with family, so they put family member pictures on the table and called Claire’s grandma and grandpa. They also learned stories about family members who have died.
Family History Service
Friend August 2021 “Meet Porter from Poland” Porter likes to help out at home and school. Porter also helps out by participating in the BillionGraves project. He and his family take photos of headstones at a cemetery and then upload them so people can find information on their Polish ancestors.
Friend April 2017 “Game Changer” Caleb feels like it is hard to have to make different choices than his friends, but the Holy Ghost comforts him and and helps him.
Choices Have Consequences
Friend March 2017 “Toys in the Bathtub” Eli really wants to put a toy in the bath, but his mom says no because it could mess up the toy.
Good, Better, Best
Friend October 2016 “Halloween Choice” Carly has to make a choice between a family trip to the temple and a Halloween party.
Choosing the Right Regardless of Peer Pressure
Friend July 2021 “Secrets and Surprises” Maddy’s friend Kate told her to put a crumpled paper doll from the store in her pocket so they could rescue it from being thrown away. At home Kate told Maddy to keep it a secret and Maddy realized they had stolen it. Maddy had an upset feeling. She didn’t think it was right to keep it a secret so she told her mom. Her mom explained that most secrets are not good unless it is something like a happy surprise.
Friend November 2018 “Finders Keepers?” Mike finds some money on the school grounds and takes it to the office even though his friends think they should keep it and spend it.
Regardless of Loss of Friends or Position
Friend May 2019 “Last Friend Standing” Some new friends of a girl want to hide their bowling shoes and not pay for the game. The girl prays for courage and then tells them that she won’t steal. Even though she loses them as friends, she feels the Holy Ghost telling her that she did the right thing.
Friend April 2019 “Farm-Club Fiasco” Nathan is the president of the Farm Club but is ostracized and removed as president when he doesn’t want to stay an extra night for fun at a competition because he doesn’t want to miss church.
Making Good Choices
Friend February 2020 “Layla Makes Good Choices”Layla likes making good choices! She helps her dad and mom and she puts on her pajamas when asked. Good choices make Layla and Mommy and Daddy happy! When we make good choices, we are following Jesus. Activity: Heavenly Father is happy when we choose the right! Point to the good choices.
Choosing the Right
Friend September 2020 “The Lost Ring” Tyler found a silver diamond ring during PE and tried to find the owner. He turned it in to the front desk even though his friend thought he should keep it and sell it. He had a warm feeling afterwards.
Friend October 2018 “I was trick-or-treating with friends and found $200. I told my mom about it. Later as we were walking down the street, a lady was looking for $200 that she had lost. She was so happy that we found it, and she gave me $10 for being honest. I shared $5 with my friends. I felt warm and happy because I was honest and chose the right. Leah D., age 6, Kentucky, USA“
Friend July 2018 “Show and Tell” I was playing with a friend who showed me a video. At first it was funny, but then a character said a bad word. When I hear bad words, it feels bad in my body, so I asked him if we could do something else. He said OK. I felt happy inside! Javaan F., age 9, North Carolina, USA
Friend June 2017 “My Light” Poem about the light that shines when we choose the Right. (Could be the light of Christ or light of example.)
Friend September 2016 “Blair Chooses the Right” Blair has choices to make on Sunday and she chooses the right on each choice.
Friend Sept 2015 “A Courageous Choice” – Girl able to have courage to do what was right after remembering a story in the Friend magazine about a child choosing the right in the same type of situation.
Friend September 1986 “The Competition” Elizabeth wants to win a piano competition. On the way to the competition she sees her competition’s car has slid off the road. She chooses to help.
Choosing the Right Keeps Us Safe and Happy
Friend March 2023 “Run toward the Light” When Elder Peter M. Johnson was a child he ran away from boys who wanted to steal his money. He ran out of a dark alley towards the light and was safe. In his life he tried to run from what was bad and look for what was good. In college he met some members of the church while playing basketball. He joined the church. He knew there was hope, peace, and happiness when running toward the light.
Things that Help us Choose the Right
Friend
Scriptures
Friend June 2017 “Martin’s Choice” Martin feels spiritually stronger after doing family scripture study. He also feels happy when he makes good choices and follows the prophet. These things help him when he has to make a choice, such as what to do when he is given tea at a school campout.
Prayer
Friend January 2021 “The Party Problem” Luz felt uneasy about going to a graduation party. It didn’t sound like the kind of party where she’d be able to feel the Holy Ghost. She thought about it, made her choice not to go, and then asked Heavenly Father if that was the right choice. Afterwards she felt a wave of warmth and light and knew she had made the right choice.
Holy Ghost
Friend November 2015 “Karson & the Golden Ticket” Karson finds an extra ticket for the prize jar but feels bad when he goes to put his name on it.
Friend October 2024 “Ryan’s Party” Ryan was excited for his birthday. The first person he invited was Chad. He always had fun with Chad even though Chad sometimes he stumbled over his words, and he wasn’t very good at sports. Chad was good at other things, like origami. Next, Ryan found Ty and Braden at Ty’s house and he gave them each an invitation. When they found out that Chad was coming, they said he was weird and didn’t want to come. Ryan didn’t know what to do. His parents had taught him that when he needed help, the Holy Ghost could guide him, so he said a prayer. When he thought about Ty and Braden, he felt nervous and a little sad. But when he thought about inviting Chad, he felt calm and happy. He knew the Holy Ghost was telling him that inviting Chad was a good choice. Ty and Braden didn’t come to his birthday party. But Ryan had lots of fun with his other friends. Chad even showed them how to make origami. They all went home with their own paper animal.
Choosing the Right Helps Us Be Happy
Friend August 2018 “Racing Rules” Lelah wants to race her trike ke down the sidewalk, but the family rule is to stay in the driveway. She obeys and has a happy feeling.
Friend March 2018 “Ruby Gets Ready” Ruby doesn’t like to put her socks and shoes on all by herself so she cries when asked to do it. She realizes that she needs to make a better choice because she doesn’t feel happy when she gets upset and cries.
Friend March 2018 A man drops some money and Brianna gives it to him. She has a wonderful feeling afterwards.
Friend January 2017 “The Favorite Ball” Seth and Adam are fighting over whose turn it is to play with their favorite ball. Seth doesn’t like the way he is feeling inside and realizes that fighting is not a good choice.
Friend February 2015 “The Blessing Quest” Nathan wants to ride bikes with his friends instead of going to church, but he learns that commandments are meant to help us be happy.
Friend March 2022 “The Snack-Stand Superheroes” Some boys find a box of candy bars under the bleachers. They decide to do the right thing and take it to the snack stand owner to see if it belongs to him. They feel like superheroes.
Choosing the Right Changes Hearts
Friend July 2017 “The Magic Wallet” Mandy’s family is staying in a motel until their house is built, but the manager doesn’t like all the noise the kids make. His heart and views change when Mandy turns in a lost wallet that she finds.
Courage to Choose the Right
Friend April 2021 “The CTR Reminder” Raish was afraid to say anything to her friends who were being mean to a new girl, but then she saw her CTR ring and remembered something her teacher had said. Remember who you are and what you stand for. So Raish stood for the right and asked her friends to stop being mean, and then she went and apologized to the new girl and asked to be her friend.
Friend August 2020 “Choosing the Channel” Camille’s best friend told her about a TV show, but it had some bad words in it so she turned it off. Camille was afraid to tell her friend that she didn’t watch it. They were best friends that did everything together and liked the same things. She was afraid they wouldn’t be friends anymore. But her friend was understanding and said they could find a show they both liked.
Friend March 1988 “Haunted House Hero” A boy who has courage to choose the right rather than accept a dangerous dare, gets help for his friends who fall though the floor of an old house.
Friend November 1985 “The Guy in the Glass”- Boy chooses to befriend and stands up for another boy even though he might get teased and tormented too.
Peer Pressure
Friend March 2022 “The Bike Prank” Sam’s friends want to do a prank where they take all the valve caps off bikes at a bike stand. Sam doesn’t feel good about it but he agrees. He feels really bad about what they did and asks Heavenly Father to forgive him. The next time his friends want to do the same thing, Sam says no and distracts them with a bike race.
Friend March 2018 “Practically Popular” La-Neisha is invited to be friends with the popular girls but is told she can’t have any other friends. She tries to avoid her old friend but feels bad. She chooses to do the right thing regardless of what her new friends think.
Friend September 2017 “Matt and Mandy” Matt tells some boys he doesn’t want to hear a bad joke even though they call him chicken.
Friend May 1983 “Maria Makes a Choice” – Story about girl who chooses not to steal when a friend encourages it.
Friend April 2015 “Courage and Clubs” Kate chooses not to join her friend’s club because the requirement to join is to say a bad word.
Friend February 1987 “The Dogsled Race” Jody borrows a dog and enters a dogsled race to win some ice skates. The dog injures her paw close to the finish line. Jody sacrifices what she wants and does the right thing: she takes care of the dog, like she promised she would–instead of making the dog finish the race.
Friend September 2015 – “To Cheat or not to Cheat” Boy chooses not to cheat on a test
Friend May 1982 – Girl returns money she found even though she needed money to buy a Mother’s Day gift.Friend August 2015 -A lack of friends turns into a test of choosing the rightFriend August 2015
Helping Others Make Good Choices
Friend February 2018 “The Pencil Problem” when Alex gets two pencils from a machine when he only paid for one, Maya says he should tell the librarian. All their other friends thinks he should keep it.
As children face challenges throughout their lives, they will need faith that the Savior can help them during their trials and that those trials can “work together for [their] good” (Doctrine and Covenants 98:3).
Ask the children to help you make a list on the board of some challenges that a child their age may face. Tell the children about some of the challenges of the Saints living in Jackson County, Missouri, in 1833 (see chapters 34and 35 in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 128–34). What advice would they give to a child experiencing these challenges? Ask the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 98:1–3, 11–14, looking for the guidance the Lord gave. How can they follow this counsel as they face challenges like the ones listed on the board?
Section 98heading: Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Kirtland, Ohio, August 6, 1833. This revelation came in consequence of the persecution upon the Saints in Missouri. Increased settlement of Church members in Missouri troubled some other settlers, who felt threatened by the Saints’ numbers, political and economic influence, and cultural and religious differences. In July 1833, a mob destroyed Church property, tarred and feathered two Church members, and demanded that the Saints leave Jackson County. Although some news of the problems in Missouri had no doubt reached the Prophet in Kirtland (nine hundred miles away), the seriousness of the situation could have been known to him at this date only by revelation.
Invite the children to be as still and quiet as possible for a few minutes while looking at a picture of the Savior or listening to a song about Him. Then invite them to share what they felt and experienced during the stillness. Read Doctrine and Covenants 101:16. How does being still and thinking of Jesus help us? Help the children understand the connection between reverent stillness and our ability to feel the Spirit and think about Jesus.
Section 100 HeadingRevelation given to Joseph Smith the Prophet and Sidney Rigdon, at Perrysburg, New York, October 12, 1833. The two brethren, having been absent from their families for several days, felt some concern about them.
Just a few weeks after Joseph learned of the persecution in Missouri, a recent convert asked him to travel to Canada to share the gospel with his sons. Joseph agreed, although he worried about leaving his family, especially because of persecution and threats to his family and the Church. On their way to Canada, Joseph and his companion, Sidney Rigdon, prayed for comfort, and section 100 was the Lord’s answer to them. What do you find in the Lord’s response that may have reassured and helped them?
After reading these verses, you might discuss how blacksmiths must heat metal intensely to remove impurities and then shape it by hammering it over and over again (see the video “The Refiner’s Fire” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). You might also learn together about how other things are purified, such as water or salt. Maybe you could purify or cleanse something as a family. Why do we want to become pure? What do these examples teach us about how our trials can help us become “a pure people”? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 98-101”)
Discuss with the children the tests they take in school.
Why do teachers give tests? (To see if we are learning certain information or learning how to do certain things, and to help us know if we are learning.)
What other tests do we have in life?
Explain that one of the reasons we are sent to earth is to have our faith in Jesus Christ tested. We are here to prove that we will live the way Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ want us to live (see Abraham 3:24–25), despite the trials and difficulties we face. Sometimes we do not live the way Heavenly Father and Jesus want us to, but we can repent and change to doing what is right. Tell the children that in this lesson they are going to learn about Zion’s Camp, an experience that tested the faith of some of the early members of the Church.
Bring a small piece of rough, slivery wood and a piece of sandpaper (or bring a sharp or jagged stone and a smooth one, and adjust the activity accordingly).
What were some of the problems faced by the members of Zion’s Camp? (Answers may include illness, persecution by enemies, quarreling, bad tempers, spoiled food, unsafe water, and sore feet.)As the children name the problems, pass the rough wood around and let them feel it. Compare the rough, slivery wood to God’s children before they are tested with trials and problems.
Would you want to use something (such as a spoon or pencil) made out of this piece of wood? Why not?
What are some of the tests we face in life? Write the children’s answers on the chalkboard.
How can we pass these tests?As you discuss the tests we face and how we can meet them, rub the wood with the sandpaper until at least a part of the wood is smooth. Compare this to the refining influence of facing our problems and overcoming them. As we overcome problems, our imperfections are “smoothed out” and we become better people and more useful to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.Pass the wood around again so the children can feel the difference between the rough part and the smooth part.
Tell or read the story. Show on the map where the various events occurred. You may want to have a child place a small marker on the map as you mention each place.
Label a paper bag Adversity and place inside it several objects that could each represent a type of adversity, such as a piece of money to suggest financial difficulties, an empty medicine bottle to suggest illness, a fork or spoon to suggest hunger, a schoolbook to suggest difficulties in school, or a picture or drawing of an angry face to suggest a friend who is angry or unkind.
Have each child take an object out of the bag and explain how the object could represent adversity, how a person might deal with that type of adversity, and where a person might go for help with that type of adversity. Make sure the children mention that they can turn to Heavenly Father for help in adversity. Tell the children that in this lesson they will learn about a terrible adversity that Joseph Smith and other Church leaders faced and how they were strengthened by this experience.
One way the Savior comforted Joseph Smith while he suffered in Liberty Jail was by teaching him that “all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good” (Doctrine and Covenants 122:7). This truth can bless the children when they face their own trials.
The Lord’s words to Joseph Smith in Liberty Jail provide an opportunity to help the children recognize that sometimes life is hard, but Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can help us.
Invite the children to listen for the word “peace” as you share with them “Chapter 46: Joseph Smith in Liberty Jail” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 172–74) or Doctrine and Covenants 121:7–8. Help the children think of ways we can trust the Lord as Joseph did so that we can feel peace. Explain that even though Joseph experienced hard things, the Lord was with him.
To help the children recognize that our trials “shall be for [our] good” (Doctrine and Covenants 122:7), talk to them about how our muscles grow when we carry something heavy. Let them pretend to lift a heavy object or do hard work. Explain that going through hard times can help our spirits grow—if we turn to the Lord for help. Share some examples that the children you teach would relate to. Invite them to repeat with you the phrase “All these things shall … be for [our] good.”
Invite the children to share what they know about Joseph Smith’s experience in prison and the Saints being forced from Missouri (see chapters 45–47 of Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 167–75). Ask the children how they would feel if they were Joseph Smith or one of the Saints at this time. Read with the children Doctrine and Covenants 121:7–9; 122:7–9, and invite them to find something the Lord said that would have brought them peace. How can our hard experiences “be for [our] good”?
Take turns lifting something heavy. Talk about how lifting that load is like going through a hard time. How can trials make us stronger and help us grow? Now lift the object with someone else’s help. Remind everyone that Jesus Christ helps us carry our load.
Why is adversity for our good? Adversity can help us become more like Jesus Christ; It can help us to develop empathy, patience, kindness, humility, faith and trust in God, reliance on God, etc. Ask the children if they would like to share how an adversity they suffered was for their gain.
List everyday problems on wordstrips and place them in a bowl. Have each person draw one and identify blessings that could come from such adversity. (Sickness, for example, can increase our compassion for the sick and our appreciation for the blessing of good health.)
Tell of a trial (either from your own life or from one of your ancestors) that has strengthened and blessed you.
Ask each one to say how some difficult experience he has had has been helpful to him—what he has learned from it, or how he has been blessed from it.
Encourage family members to recognize trials as challenges. Remind them to seek the Lord’s help in overcoming them.
What does it mean to “come forth” from our trials “as gold”? (see also the video “The Refiner’s Fire,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Who do we know who has done this? Children might enjoy making something with the words from verse 10 written on it. You might also discuss how Jesus Christ overcame His trials (see Luke 22:41–44; Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–19).
Read together Isaiah 48:10, and talk about what a furnace is and different ways it is used. Explain that metals are purified in a furnace. Why is a furnace a good way to describe affliction? How can our afflictions purify us? (see Alma 62:41).
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.
Friend September 2021 “A Special Lunch” When Baylor started 3rd grade he had a hard time making friends. So when two new boys arrive at school, he does his best to make them feel welcome and help them. He also had two coupons for lunch with a friend and the teacher, and he invited the two new boys.
Friend December 2023 “Playground Prayer” Davi’s family had just moved from Brazil to England and he couldn’t understand the language. He was lonely and missed his friends. He went into a playhouse and said a prayer. Heavenly Father was always his friend. He practiced really hard to learn English and every time he was sad, he said a prayer and he felt peace and strength to keep trying. Soon he was able to understand better and make friends. One day he saw a new kid from a different country sitting on the swing looking sad. He understood what he was going through and ran over and invited him to play soccer.
Friend June 2020 “Eli’s Helping Hand” Eli was sad when he missed a ball and his soccer team lost the game. At church he noticed that his friend Kate was feeling sad too because her body hurt from sitting in a wheelchair. He knew what feeling sad felt like and he wanted to help her. He rocked her wheelchair to help her feel better. Afterwards, he realized that helping Kate made him feel better too.
Develop Humility
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 53-63” Here’s an object lesson that can help your family understand that we can choose to be either “hardened” or “softened” by our trials: Place a raw potato and a raw egg in a pot of boiling water. The potato and the egg represent us, and the water represents the trials we face. As the potato and egg boil, you could talk about some of the trials your family faces. What are some different ways to react to trials like these? According to Alma 62:41, how do our reactions to trials affect us? After the potato and egg are fully cooked, cut open the potato and crack open the egg to show that the same “trial” softened the potato and hardened the egg. What can our family do to be sure that our trials humble us and bring us closer to God?
To Help Faith Grow
Friend August 2021 “Peace through Priesthood Power” When Elder Steven R. Bangerter was a child, he had gamma globulin anemia which made it hard for his body to fight off germs, so he got sick a lot. One night he had an earache so bad that he thought his head would explode. He father gave him a blessing and he was able to sleep through the night and feel better the next day. The next few year his father continued to give him priesthood blessings. He taught him that those blessings were opportunities for Heavenly Father to speak to him. His sickness became a way for Heavenly Father to help his faith to grow.
Show the children a plant with thorns (or a picture of one). Help them imagine what it would feel like to have a thorn stuck in their skin for a long time. Summarize 2 Corinthians 12:7–10 for the children, explaining that Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” was a trial, something difficult in his life. Even though Paul asked God to remove the trial, God did not. Instead, God taught Paul that challenges can help us learn to be humble and trust Him. Then God can make us strong. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )
Testify that Heavenly Father knows what is best for us, and He will give us what we need, even if it is different from what we think we need. You might also share an experience when your prayers were answered in a way or at a time that was different from what you expected. A story like “The Diabetes Dilemma” (Friend, Sept. 2019, 4–5) or “Please Bless Ace” (Friend, Nov. 2019, 32–33) can also help. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )
Friend September 2019 “The Diabetes Dilemma” Joe prayed that his sister didn’t have diabetes. When they found out she did have diabetes, he was devastated. He didn’t understand why Heavenly Father didn’t answer his prayer. His mom explained that answers to prayers don’t always happen the way we want. Sometimes, instead of taking something hard away, He answers by giving us peace and helping us be strong. Joe then realizes that Heavenly Father was blessing his sister and family with peace.
Friend September 2019
Friend September 2019
Friend September 2019
Friend November 2019 “Please Bless Ace” Zach’s dog, Ace, has to have surgery and Zach is worried about him. Zach prays that Ace will live. After his pray, Zach felt the worried feeling leave. He remembered that peace throughout the day. When he got home, he found out that his dog was okay. The family gave Ace extra care that week. Then Ace got sick again and he died. Zach had wanted Ace to live, but he was glad he had been given extra time to spend with him and show Ace how much he loved him.
Friend November 2019Friend November 2019
Sing with the children a song about Heavenly Father’s love, such as “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13). Ask the children what they would say to someone who wonders whether Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers. Sing the song again, and point out lines that describe how Heavenly Father feels about us.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )
Elder Bruce R. McConkie of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles commented that Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” was “some unnamed physical infirmity, apparently a grievous one from which the Apostle suffered either continuously or recurringly” (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 3 vols.
New Testament Study Guide for Home-Study Seminary Students
The Cozy Red Cottage 2 Corinthians 12:7–10 “Explain that Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” was a trial, such as a physical weakness. Even though Paul asked God to remove the trial, God did not. Instead, God taught Paul that challenges can help us learn to be humble and trust Him. Then God can make us strong.” (primary Manual)
Use the “blessing and thorn” page to discuss some of the trials people may experience. Write their ideas by the thorns. Then discuss some of the blessing that come from trials and write their ideas on the petals. (Ideas for trials might include: friendship difficulties, school difficulties, health issues, family difficulties, etc.) (Ideas for blessings might include: adversity can help us become more like Jesus Christ; It can help us to develop empathy, patience, kindness, humility, faith and trust in God, reliance on God, etc.)
Read with the children “The Diabetes Dilemma” (Friend, Sept. 2019, 4–5). Ask the children to share experiences when they prayed for something and did not receive it. Ask them to share what they learned from their experiences. You might have your own experiences to share as well. Bear your testimony that Heavenly Father always answers our prayers in the way and at the time that will bless us the most.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )
Friend September 2019 “The Diabetes Dilemma” Joe prayed that his sister didn’t have diabetes. When they found out she did have diabetes, he was devastated. He didn’t understand why Heavenly Father didn’t answer his prayer. His mom explained that answers to prayers don’t always happen the way we want. Sometimes, instead of taking something hard away, He answers by giving us peace and helping us be strong. Joe then realizes that Heavenly Father was blessing his sister and family with peace.
Friend September 2019
Friend September 2019
Friend September 2019
Friend November 2019 “Please Bless Ace” Zach’s dog, Ace, has to have surgery and Zach is worried about him. Zach prays that Ace will live. After his pray, Zach felt the worried feeling leave. He remembered that peace throughout the day. When he got home, he found out that his dog was okay. The family gave Ace extra care that week. Then Ace got sick again and he died. Zach had wanted Ace to live, but he was glad he had been given extra time to spend with him and show Ace how much he loved him.
Friend November 2019Friend November 2019
Paul asked God to remove his weakness, but God knew that Paul’s weakness would humble him and God could make him strong.
Paul wrote of “a thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7) to describe challenges and personal weaknesses. These challenges can weigh us down. With the Savior’s grace, however, we can find strength.
Gather some heavy objects (personal challenges).
Give each family member one or more heavy objects to carry.
Make these “challenges” even more challenging by completing tasks while holding them (for example, making a sandwich, folding clothes, dancing).
Try the same activity again, but this time ask someone to help you with the heavy objects.
Discussion: What was difficult about carrying the objects alone? How does Christ lighten our burden? What are some trials or challenges that we’ve experienced as a family? When have we been strengthened by the Savior’s grace? (see Ether 12:27).
Life is a Test
Friend November 2020 “Conference Notes”President Eyring told a story about when he was a boy. He was pulling weeds in the garden. “This is too hard!” he said. His mom smiled. She told him it was supposed to be hard because life is a test. He learned that doing hard things is part of Heavenly Father’s plan.
Friend November 2023 “The Tryouts” Jared was excited to try out for the regional basketball team. Only a few players get invited to try out for it. But when he found out it was on Sunday his excitement faded. But he knew God was more important than basketball. He said a prayer and afterwards felt a comforting feeling that everything would be okay. Two days later he got an email saying tryouts would be on Saturday instead. He prepared very hard for the tryout and did his best but wasn’t selected. Then, a comforting thought came to him. “Things won’t always work out how I want,” he said. “But Jesus Christ knows exactly how I feel. He’s on my side.”
The Cozy Red Cottage The manual states, “Perhaps your family could contrast Nephi’s account of traveling in the wilderness (see 1 Nephi 17:1-6) with his brothers’ account (1 Nephi 17:17-22). Why do you think they saw the same events differently? What can we learn from Nephi about having a faithful perspective?”
Friend April 2023 “The Allergy Lesson” Elder Hans T. Boom Of the Seventy had terrible allergies that made it hard for him to breath when he was a child. He had to mostly stay inside and couldn’t do many things that he wanted to like playing soccer. No medicine helped. He didn’t get better until he was an adult, but he learned many important things during this difficult time.
Difficulties
Loneliness
Friend February 2015 “Happy Alone, Happy Together” Ideas on what to do when you want to be alone or when you are lonely.
Friend April 2021 I was feeling lonely at recess, so I asked someone if they would play with me. We started playing with chalk, and more people came, and it was so much fun! If you feel lonely, you can ask someone to play with you! (includes photo)
Friend June 2017 “Running with Dad” TJ is sad and lonely after moving, but he feels better after he and his dad set a goal and start preparing to run a marathon.
Friend October 2019 “The Phone Call” Mackenzie is lonely after her best friend moves. She prays for help, and Heavenly Father blesses her with a new best friend.
Friend October 2019
Friend October 2019
Friend October 2019
Friend December 2017 “Signs of Friendship” Conner has autism and has a hard time finding friends. His mother suggests he pray about it. A boy that is deaf moves into the neighborhood. Conner realizes the boy must be lonely too, so Conner learns some sign language and goes and introduces himself.
No Friends at School
Friend February 2023 “Lost and Found Friends” Leah didn’t know anyone in her new class. She hoped she could make a friend. A girl named Anna sat next to and asked if Leah wanted to be friends. They were good friends through the year and played together every day. Then Anna started acting strange and not talking to her. When asked why, Anna said her new friend said Leah was weird and she didn’t think they could hang out anymore. Leah was hurt, but soon school ended and she was busy with lots of activities hanging out with her best friend. School was about to start and Leah was worried about not having a friend. She kept praying for help. Then on the first day of school she found that her best friend was in her class. Heavenly Father had helped her.
Can’t Speak the Language at School
Friend December 2023 “Playground Prayer” Davi’s family had just moved from Brazil to England and he couldn’t understand the language. He was lonely and missed his friends. He went into a playhouse and said a prayer. Heavenly Father was always his friend. He practiced really hard to learn English and every time he was sad, he said a prayer and he felt peace and strength to keep trying. Soon he was able to understand better and make friends. One day he saw a new kid from a different country sitting on the swing looking sad. He understood what he was going through and ran over and invited him to play soccer.
Moving
Friend August 2021 “Dear Friends” I was scared I wouldn’t make new friends when we moved to South Korea. When I was reading the Friend, I saw Matt holding the South Korean flag in the “Find It!” activity (April 2020). Matt said, “Wherever you go in the world, Primary is the same.” I felt Heavenly Father was telling me that Matt was right and that I can go to Primary in South Korea and make friends! Alice W., age 10
Friend August 2019 “The Hard Move” Liesl was sad when she found out she was moving because it was her first move and she would miss her friends. Her friends encouraged her, and she tried to believe that she could do it and that God had a plan for her. When she got to her new home she quickly made friends and loved the new house, school, and city. She was grateful Heavenly Father had a plan for her.
Friend August 2019
Friend March 2019 “Who Will Come to My Party” Enzo is excited to plan his future party and inviting his friends until he remembers that he will live in a new place when it happens. He worries about making new friends, so he prays for help to find friends. During his prayer he remembers that he already has a great friend there because his uncle lives there. Heavenly Father answered his prayer.
Friend March 2016 “Trading Mountains for Trees” A family moves from Utah to Georgia and prays for comfort and help.
I watched my parents divorce, so I prayed and Heavenly Father filled my mind with warm thoughts. Aika C., age 7 (Includes a drawing of her parents fighting and her praying)
Friend May 2021 “Charlotte’s Family” In Primary, Charlotte didn’t want to hear the song “Families are Forever” so she sat in the hall. Her parents were getting a divorce and it made her feel sick. Sister Henry came and talked to her about what made her feel better when her parents got a divorce, such as remembering that her parents loved her and also thinking about her perfect family in heaven. Charlotte decided to think about her heavenly family when they sang the song “Families are Forever.”
Family Illness
Friend September 2016 “A special Big Brother” Daniel is upset that he doesn’t get to go to the park like the other boys due to his sister’s health issues.
Family Member in Prison
Friend March 2021 “The Best Pen Pal Ever” Jane’s mother had been in prison for a year and still had three more years to serve. Because of the long drive to go see her, Jane’s mother suggested they become pen pals. But Jane was too sad to write because she just wanted her mother home. Her father suggested that she think of things she was grateful for. After saying a prayer she was able to think of lots things she was grateful for to write her mom about.
Body Issues
Being Small
Friend August 2016 “Crickets Big Moment” Cricket is upset that she has to perform cheerleading with a younger group because she is small, but she perseveres and is acknowledged for her sacrifice and help.
Learning Issues
Friend March 2018 “The Write Choice” Justina had a hard time with reading and writing in school, but her teacher told her, “You can’t always choose what you’re good at. But you can always choose how hard you try.” Justina started putting more effort into trying, and reading and writing became easier and easier. Eventually she became good enough to become a writer.
School Issues
Middle School
Friend September 2023 “An Unexpected Solution” Derek was now in middle school. The school was much bigger, with lots more students, and the classes were harder. But what worried Derek most of all was the other kids. Some of them seemed so mean! He didn’t want anyone to get mad at him, so he kept his eyes down in the halls. His dad suggested that he try smiling at whoever he sees because it’s pretty hard to get mad about a smile. Derek tried it on a older, bigger student and the other boy’s face brightened a little bit. Derek smiled at more people on his way to class. Almost all of them smiled back! Derek thought that middle school might not be so scary after all. Maybe his smile could help someone else feel better too.
Friend July 2023 “Courage from the Holy Ghost” Mathias had extreme social anxiety and could only talk to close family members. He was seeing a counselor but didn’t seem to be getting any better. When he turned 8 he was baptized and received the Holy Ghost. He knew the Holy Ghost would comfort him and give him courage. I decided to try to speak to his friend, Charlie. He tried all week, but couldn’t. Then one day when they were alone in the school garden, Heavenly Father and the Holy Ghost helped him say hi to his friend. After that day, it was easier to complete more goals. Soon he was talking to pretty much everyone!
Anxiety, Stress, & Worry
Friend January 2019 “What’s on Your Mind” Ways to de-stress. Also includes a stress meter.
Every night, I read the Friend before sleeping. Whenever I read it, I feel happy and my worries go away. It has helped me when I have worries. Thank you for the Friend! Jehee C., age 11, Alberta, Canada
Friend May 2017 “Worried or Afraid? Here’s Help” Ideas to help with anxiety.
Friend May 2017
Friend September 2024 “The Worry Box” Olivia felt worried a lot. Sometimes she felt so worried that it was hard to sleep or have fun with her friends. On Olivia’s first day of therapy. Her mom explained that Heavenly Father gives us doctors to help us. The doctor gave her a worry box to try. It was a place she could put all her written worries in. Then she could pick a time to open the box every day for worry time. That way she wouldn’t have to think about the worries until that time. Olivia felt peaceful. She was grateful Heavenly Father had given her lots of things to help her feel better.
Friend February 2020 “Anxious but All Right” Lincoln was glad to get into the car after school. His day had been filled with anxious feelings. His mother helped him figure out some things he could do to feel better now and in the future if it happened again.
Friend February 2020
Friend February 2020
Friend February 2020
Friend February 2020
Friend May 2017 “Ella’s Worries” Ella is anxious and worries about many things. She prays for help and then talks to her dad. She learns her mom has anxiety too and gets help for it. (Ideas for helping anxiety)
Natural Disasters
Pandemic
Friend May 2022 “Tom and the Terrible Flu” Tom helped take are of his dad and other villagers when the Spanish Flu hit. He gave them coconut milk, made chicken soup for them, and got them water. It was scary seeing so many people sick and dying, but he had faith that God would help them.
Friend April 2021 “Hi, Friends” I drew rainbows of hope for my neighbors during COVID-19. I was happy I helped, like Jesus would! Willow Age 5 (Photo)
Friend August 2020 “For Older Kids” During COVID-19, I thought, “How’s the Church going to keep bringing us closer to God?” Then I realized I have more time with my family and to read scriptures. Then over time I was brought closer to Heavenly Father. I know that spending more time with my family and reading the scriptures brought the Spirit to my home. Mason L., age 10,
Friend November 2020 “We are Moving Forward” The work of the Lord is steadily moving forward regardless of a global pandemic, wildfires, and other natural disasters that have turned our world upside down. Through it all, our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, love us! They and Their holy angels are watching over us.
Friend April 2021 “Show and Tell” The coronavirus made me feel sad. I drew a picture of everyone fasting and praying around the world, and it made me happy. Scotty J., age 7 (link includes the picture Scotty drew of people joining hands around the world and angels looking down from heaven.)
Friend October 2020 “Doorstep Surprise” Taylor is lonely and is missing here friends because she can’t see them during the pandemic. She decides to drop cookies off at their doorstep so they will know she is thinking about them.
Friend October 2020 “A Package of Love” Tom worries that his grandparents might get Covid. He and his mom go and get face masks and hand sanitizer for them .Tom was still worried about his grandparents, but doing something to help made him feel a little better.
Friend March 2023 “The Earthquake Prayer” Violet woke up when she felt an earthquake. She and her family ran to the kitchen and crawled under the table. They had practiced what to do in an earthquake, but Violet was scared. She said a prayer, and felt like someone was giving her a hug. She was glad Heavenly Father helped her feel peace.
Storms and Tornados
Friend April 2019 “Matt and Mandy” A big storm makes the power go out and is very scary. They pray for protection. A tree falls on their garage but nobody is hurt.
Friend August 2021 “Tornado Scare” When Josiah heard about the tornado, he was scared. He was afraid a tornado would blow his house away. His parents noticed. He wondered why Heavenly Father didn’t help the people’s who houses were destroyed. His parents told him that Heavenly Father was helping them. They said, “Sometimes He sends little miracles, or helps people feel comfort, or inspires other people to help out.” Josiah and his family decide to help Heavenly Father help the people whose homes were damages by the tornado. They also prayed for the people.
Fire
Friend April 2020 “Building Again” After experiencing a terrifying fire where Sam’s house burnt down along with most of the town, Sam didn’t know if anything would be okay again. One day at learning center, Sam built a temple out of blocks of wood. His mother said it could be the first decoration in their new house because, “The temple is a place of peace. It can remind us that no matter what happens, we’ll be OK.”
Friend April 2020
War
Friend September 2018 “A Voice of Peace” (Part One) Grace Vlam was a nine-year-old girl living in Holland in 1940, during World War II. Nazi Germany had just begun attacking Holland. When Holland was taken over by the Nazis, Grace’s Father was taken prisoner. Grace was comforted by the Holy Ghost .
Friend October 2018 “An Answered Prayer” (Part Two) One day a Nazi came to the door. He took their radio and told them that they would have to leave because the Nazis were going to take over their house. Grace’s mother prayed for help and the Nazi’s never came back to take their house.
Friend November 2018 “Hope in Holland” (Part Three) People in Holland were starving and cold because the Nazis took everything, but the war eventually ended and Grace’s father came home from the prison camp. Church leaders sent supplies to help the people, but the Germany people were now starving. The Holland saints forgave and shared some of their supplies with them.
Refugee
Friend June 2021 “Ombeni’s New Home” Ombeni’s family were refugees in the U.S. School was hard because he didn’t know the language and didn’t have any friends. His mother suggested he try to find someone to serve. He found a girl sitting alone at lunch and sat by her and smiled. She smiled back. It made him feel happy that he could help someone.
Disabilities
Friend March 2019 “Bright Ideas” Remember you are a child of Heavenly Parents and they love you.
Friend November 2020 “Help Passing the Sacrament” Brayden was almost old enough to pass the sacrament, but he didn’t know how he was going to do it because he used a walker to help him walk. But then the other deacons volunteered to take turns pushing him in his transport chair so he could carry a tray. He was glad to be part of such a great deacons quorum!
Friend October 2019 “I Don’t Want to Be Different” Mika loved going to dance class. When the dancers all moved together she felt like she wasn’t the only one with Down Syndrome. But one day, when she asked for help with a new dance step, some girls said she talked funny. Mika wished she wasn’t different than other people. Her mother suggested that she pray and ask Heavenly Father how he feels about her. She got a loud answer that He loves her just the way she is, so she stopped worrying about what the other girls thought and started focusing on helping others who looked sad.
Response: You can’t make anyone do anything. But when you speak kindly, others might follow your example. Words are powerful. Especially when you use your words for good. Mean words can be hurtful, but kind words can be helpful, healing, and inspiring.
Friend August 2024 “Fight Bullying with Love” When Matilda moved to a different country she was bullied for looking different than the other kids. Her mom taught her to respond to bullying with love. So now she talks to the person who is saying bad things and tries to stop the situation by explaining how it feels to hear bad things about themselves for being different. (Picture and story at link.)
Friend October 2016 “Family Night Fun” Acting out situations where a bully might dare you to do something. Also includes discussion and refreshment ideas.
Friend January 2018 “Forgiving Demi” Mae is made fun of by a girl because of how tall she is. In tears, Mae says a prayer and she feels Heavenly Father’s love. She is also remembers that the bully is a child of God too.
Friend August 2017 “Enough is Enough” A girl learns that trying to be mean and hurt the bully back doesn’t help. It just makes her feel worse.
Friend July 2017 “Standing Up with Kindness” A boy who moves to England is bullied because of his accent. He helps the kids learn more about the difficulties of being an immigrant by presenting a slideshow. (Link includes real life pictures of the boy.)
Friend April 2015 “Flowers and Friends” A girl in Jenny’s class keeps demanding Jenny’s flowers that other classmates can only take if Jenny is talking. Jenny prays about it and tries to be a friend to the girl.
Friend April 2015Friend April 2015
Friend June 1984 “The Trial of Billy Fisher” – A bully threatens a boy to try and get him to share answers to a test.
Friend September 2016 “Which Path to Choose” Abbey is harassed and made fun of by Hannah, but Abbey doesn’t say mean things back because she was taught to treat others like you want to be treated. Friend March 1988 “Grandma Fenton Says” A bully gives Olivia and Jeremy a hard time. Olivia finds a way to point out the good.
Friend October 2016 “Turning Down the Dare” Tyler struggles with the persecutions of a bully.Tyler helps some kids at recess when the bully persecutes them. The bully wants to fight him but Tyler makes the good choice not to.
Friend August 2024 “The Kindness Test” Melanie kept being made fun of by a boy at school, so she asked her sister what to do when someone is being mean to you. Her sister suggested doing something nice for him. A few days later, she shared a treat with him and she found out he was funny and fun to be with when he wasn’t teasing her. Now he was her friend.
Racism
Friend May 2023 “Rosi’s Prayer” Rosi was teased and made fun of at school because of her skin color. She prays for help. It felt good to tell Heavenly Father about her feelings. She felt warm and loved. She felt that her skin color was beautiful. She was a child of God, and He loved her. After her prayer she had an idea. She and her mom talked to the people in charge of the school about what was happening in her classroom. Rosi also looked out for other kids at school who were being bullied and became friends with them.
Religious Beliefs Persecution
Friend January 2018 “An Answer For Lucia” Lucia is made fun of in school for her different beliefs. Her teacher even mocked her for her different beliefs about the Godhead. She asked the missionaries about it. The missionaries use scriptures to show that the Godhead are individuals but one in purpose, and the Holy Ghost confirmed that what the missionaries were saying was true.
Health Issues
Fiend August 2021 “Comfort from the Friend“ Katie broke her arm and found out she has a cyst in the bone that needed surgery. She was scared and prayed for help. Then she read a story in the Friend Magazine that brought her comfort and peace. She was grateful for Heavenly Father’s help.
Friend July 2024 “I Am Loved” Daryn was born differently, without any way to use the bathroom. She has had three major surgeries and a few small ones. Sometimes she wonders why she is like this, but thinking about God and His plan of salvation helps her remember that she is just as loved as everyone else. And even though she struggles, she knows she can always ask God for help.
Friend December 2019 “Brave Like Joseph” Isabel got bumps all over her arms and legs that lasted months. The medicine made blisters and the blisters got infected. She had to go to the hospital, but she was afraid. Here mom told her about Joseph Smith’s bone surgery on his leg when he was her age. He was scared too, but he knew Heavenly Father would help him. Isabel thought that if Joseph could do that surgery, she could go to the hospital.
“When I was one, I was diagnosed with idiopathic rheumatoid arthritis, which makes my joints hurt. I’ve gotten many blessings, and they all helped me. There has been a lot of pain, but I’ve stayed strong. I’ve done gymnastics, dance, rock climbing, and yoga. I know this trial has brought me closer to God as I trust Him and pray to Him.” (Ivy L., age 10)
Friend October 2018 “Nick’s New Look” It hurts Nick’s feelings when classmates make fun of his bald spots. Nick suffers from the condition alopecia which makes his hair fall out. He and his parents pray and fast about what to do. He decides to shave his hair off. He also remembers that his friends, family, and Heavenly Father love him no matter what he looks like.
Friend November 2016 “Never Give Up” True story about a boy who fell from a horse and had brain damage. He had to relearn to do everything, but he never gave up. (Pictures included)
Friend March 2017 “Painting Love” Lucy has a condition where her muscles don’t work well together, so she has a hard time talking and swallowing. She painted a picture about what would make the world a better place.
Friend October 2015 “Dreams and Dolphins” Girl with one leg that doesn’t grow as fast as the other. She has to endure many surgeries, but she never gives up.
Friend March 2016 “Holding onto Hope” A girl with leukemia looks for the good in life.
Friend January 1987 “Impossible Baptism” Brady has faith to be baptized even though it could be life threatening due to his condition.
Grief
Death of Loved One
Friend May 2016 Ideas on how to help family member who is grieving the loss of a loved one
Friend November 2019 “What’s on Your Mind? A child wrote this to the Friend: “Someone I love died, and I miss them a lot. How can I stop hurting so much?” The Friend responds with some comforting advice about feeling grief. Article also includes an activity where scriptures are looked up and matched with the truth they teach.
Friend December 2020 “A Christmas Song for Grandpa” Jennifer’s grandfather passed away on the day she is supposed to sing a solo at the Christmas community program. She is heartbroken but remembers that because of Jesus she will see her grandfather again. She decides to sing about Jesus at the program so she can share the light and hope Jesus gives.
Friend March 2024 “More Time with Max” Ashlyn was overcome with grief when she thought she had lost her beloved dog Max while camping. She poured out her heart in prayer and was so happy when he showed up in the morning. Three years later she was losing him again to an injury, but the Holy Ghost comforted her and reminded her that she got more time with him.
Friend January 2017 Will Heavenly Father Answer My Prayers” When Elder Oaks was seven his father died. Dallin’s mother had faith and trusted in the Lord’s will.
Suicide
Friend August 2021 “Still Hearing Dad’s Song” Leah was upset when her friend said Leah’s dad couldn’t go to heaven because he committed suicide. Leah’s mom explained to Leah that her dad’s brain had been sick when he died, but he had been a very good man. She also explained that Heavenly Father knows and understands all things and loves him. Leah and her mom said a prayer together and Leah asked to know that her father was okay. She felt better after the prayer.
(Article also includes information about what suicide is and how to deal with it.)
Tell the children about someone you know who has died. Explain that when people die, their spirits leave their bodies and go to the spirit world. Read 1 Peter 3:19 and explain that when Jesus died, he went to visit the spirit world. There, He asked the righteous spirits to teach the gospel to other spirits who had not yet accepted the gospel (see Doctrine and Covenants 138:30).(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)
Draw on the board a circle with a line through the middle. Write Spirit Paradise on one half of the circle and Spirit Prison on the other half. Invite one of the children to read 1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6 (see 1 Peter 4:6, footnote a, for revisions from the Joseph Smith Translation). Explain that when Jesus died, He went to spirit paradise. He instructed the righteous spirits there to teach the gospel to the spirits in spirit prison. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)
President Joseph Fielding Smith: “[The Father] is going to give to every man the privilege of hearing the gospel. Not one soul shall be overlooked or forgotten. This being true, what about the countless thousands who have died and never heard of Christ, never had an opportunity of repentance, never met an elder of the Church holding the authority?…The Lord has so arranged his plan…that all who have died without this opportunity shall be given it in the spirit world.”
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter” What can your family do to feel connected to your ancestors? Perhaps you could celebrate deceased ancestors’ birthdays by preparing their favorite meals, looking at pictures, or telling stories from their lives. If possible, you could also plan to receive ordinances for your ancestors in the temple (for help, visit FamilySearch.org).
You can learn about the family members who came before you.
You can be linked to your family forever.
With technology, doing family history today is easier than ever!
It is important work for you to do.
To Do Temple Work for Our Ancestors
Friend October 2019 “The Temple Challenge” Temple Scramble: This girl has taken a family name to the temple. Can you put the pictures in order?
Friend October 2022 “Gathering Heavenly Father’s Children” Most of Heavenly Father’s children don’t know about His plan. They don’t know about Jesus Christ. They don’t know they can be baptized or sealed to their families. Heavenly Father wants us to help gather His children so they can come home to Him. And you can help, starting with your ancestors.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 ” Malachi’s prophecy about Elijah the prophet was fulfilled when Elijah appeared to Joseph Smith in the Kirtland Temple and gave him the priesthood keys that allow families to be sealed together forever. You might consider inviting someone in the ward who has responsibility for temple and family history work (such as a member of the elders quorum presidency or Relief Society presidency) to help you teach this doctrine to the children. Remember to be sensitive to the feelings of children whose families have not been sealed.
Write each phrase from Malachi 4:5–6 on a separate slip of paper. Give the slips of paper to the children, and ask them to put the phrases in the correct order. Read the verses together, and discuss questions like these: Who did the Lord promise to send? When did He say this person would come? What did the Lord say that this person would do? Why would this person need to come? Where was this prophecy fulfilled? (see Doctrine and Covenants 110:13–16).
Write on the board a question like What does it mean for the hearts of the children to turn to their fathers? (see Malachi 4:6). Invite the children to ponder this question as they watch the video “Their Hearts Are Bound to You” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Then invite the children to share their thoughts about the question on the board. Discuss together experiences you or the children have had learning about family history.
Show the picture of Elijah from this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me–For Individuals and Families. Invite the children to share what they know about the event this picture depicts (see also Doctrine and Covenants 110:13–16). Testify that the sealing power Elijah restored allows families to be united eternally—including families who didn’t have that opportunity in mortality. If you have participated in a sealing, either for yourself or for a deceased person, talk about what you felt during that ordinance. Ask the children to share their feelings about their families and about God’s plan to help families be together forever.
Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve’s Family” After Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden, they continued to learn about Heavenly Father’s plan for them on earth. They had many children and taught them all that they knew about the Lord.
Adam and Eve’s family kept a book of remembrance. They wrote their family history in the book. They wrote about how the Lord helped them.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6” Reading about the “book of remembrance” that Adam and Eve’s family kept may inspire your family to make your own book of remembrance. Discuss as a family what you would like to include. Maybe you have photos, stories, or documents from your family history. You might choose to include things that are happening in your family now. What will future generations find valuable? You could also discuss how the phrases “by the spirit of inspiration” (Moses 6:5) and “the pattern given by the finger of God” (Moses 6:46) could guide your efforts. Consider saving information from your book of remembrance on FamilySearch.org.
Story: Adam and Eve’s family made a “book of remembrance” (Moses 6:5). They wrote about Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father’s plan. This book was the beginning of the scriptures.
Song: “Love Is Spoken Here” (Children’s Songbook, 190–91)
Activity: You can make a book of remembrance too! Ask everyone in your family to write down their testimony of Jesus Christ. Then attach the pages together to make a book. Add it to your treasure box on page 30.
Heavenly Father Wants Me to Learn About My Family History.
Create a paper chain with names of people in your family (see this week’s activity page), and bring it to show the class. Tell a few things about the people on your chain. Read to the children from Doctrine and Covenants 128:18, and explain that Joseph Smith taught that “there is a welding link … between the fathers and the children.” Help the children make their own family chains, and invite them to take the chains home and have their parents help them add names of ancestors.
Ask the children to share something about one of their grandparents. Tell one of your favorite stories about your parents or grandparents. Show pictures if possible. Encourage the children to learn more about their grandparents and other ancestors.
Friend October 2019 “The Temple Challenge” Sister Jones, the general primary president, challenges a 12 year old boy to find a family name to take to the temple. He later writes to her letter telling of his success and of his opportunity to be baptized in the temple for his 3rd great grandfather and how that felt. He also tells her of his desire to do more.
Friend November 2021 “They’re Waiting for Me!” Giselle lives in India, and she can’t wait until the temple is built there so she can do baptisms for her ancestors who have died without knowledge of the gospel. (Photos at link)
Friend October 2019 “The Temple Challenge” Temple Scramble: This girl has taken a family name to the temple. Can you put the pictures in order?
How have you felt your heart turn toward your ancestors? Think of ways you can experience such feelings more often. Perhaps you could ask a relative to share a story with you about one of your ancestors—even better, you could record it. Or you could invite [a family member] to learn about an ancestor and to share what they learn with the rest of the family. Maybe you could identify a deceased ancestor who never received gospel ordinances and then have a family member perform that work in the temple.
Why does the Lord want us to learn about our family members and perform temple ordinances for them? How are we blessed when we participate in family history and temple work?
To help your children understand the “promises made to the fathers,” you could read Abraham 2:9–11 together. Identify the promises God made as part of His covenant with Abraham. How do we “plant” these promises in our hearts?
Give each child a paper heart. Help them write their name and “I promise to remember my ancestors” on it. Read Doctrine and Covenants 2:2, and explain that Elijah came to turn our hearts to our ancestors.
Friend September 2021 “For Older Kids” Pick a family member you want to learn more about. Can you learn three things about them? Write their name in your journal and draw a picture for each thing you learned.
A year ago, we went to look at some gravestones for my ancestors. We looked at the dates and saw that one of my ancestors did not die as a baby like we had thought. She died when she was 11, the same age as me. I am preparing to go to the temple to get baptized for her! I can’t wait. Mary T., age 11, Texas, USA
Friend May 2017 “For Older Kids” Try indexing! This means typing what old records say so people can search for their ancestors online. Have a parent help you download the program, or visit a family history center to do it.
Children Can Do Family History
Friend September 2017 “I Can Do Family History” A real life example and photos of children in a family that do family history and how they do it.
Friend October 2022 “Liv and Melanie’s Family Magazine” Liv and her sister 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.)
Friend November 2021 “For Older Kids” What is your family’s favorite food? Make a family recipe to eat together. You can also make food from the countries your ancestors are from.
Friend October 2020 “For Older Kids” Play a family trivia game! Make a list of questions and have each member of your family answer them. Then have a quiz at home evening to guess who gave each answer!
Friend June 2020 “For Older Kids” Choose a grandparent you want to learn more about. Look up the year they were born and find out what world events or inventions happened that year. How was life different back then?
Friend May 2020 “For Older Kids” Ask a parent or family member about a time when things didn’t go like they hoped. How did they get through it? Write or draw a picture about it in your journal.
Friend February 2020 “For Older Kids” Use an online map to explore places where your parents, grandparents, or ancestors lived.
Friend February 2020
Friend July 2019 “We have a home evening once a month about one of our ancestors. We tell a story about them and show a photo if we have one. We talk about the temple and how we will be with these ancestors again someday.” —Karen H
Friend February 2019 “Getting to Know Your Family” President Oaks discusses how to learn more about your ancestors and why. Also, how to do a Get-to-Know-you party to learn about an ancestor.
It gives me a good feeling to work on family history. I’m learning the names of lots of my ancestors and learning to upload their photos too. Someday when I meet them in heaven, I’ll already know them. Aidan A., age 10, Utah, USA
The Lord asked John Whitmer to collect and record a history of the Church, “writing, copying, selecting, and obtaining all things which shall be for the good of the church, and for the rising generations” (Doctrine and Covenants 69:8). Notice how important record keeping is in the Church.
Look up an ancestor at FamilySearch.org or in other family history records.
Read his or her journals or family members’ memories about this person.
Name some good things about your ancestor.
How are you like your ancestor?
How are these records like a treasure to you?
Discussion: Talk about the things your ancestors accomplished. Discuss how their lives have blessed your life. Share ways your life is like theirs. Talk about ways your life is different than theirs.
Friend September 2017 “For Older Children” Ask your parents for old family obituaries. These are usually newspaper clippings that announce a person’s death and tell about their life. What do you want people to remember about you? Make a list of 10 things. Then upload the obituaries to FamilySearch.org.
Friend April 2019 “For Older Children”Use the Family Tree app to find out where your ancestors are from. Click “More” and then “Map My Ancestors.” How many different places do you see? List them here!
Saving Family History Items
Friend January 2021 “For Older Kids” Make a family story book! Write down a story about your family and draw pictures for each page. Staple or tie the pages together to make a book.
Friend March 2017 “Family Night Fun” Each person collects an item to put in a treasure chest and tells why that item is a treasure to them.
Friend March 2017
Friend March 2017 “For Older Kids” Make a time capsule, and what would your ancestors have put in a time capsule
Friend March 2017
Friend May 2017
Friend November 2017 Make a family recipe! Do you know which family member it came from? Upload pictures of the recipe to the memories page of that family member on FamilySearch.org.
Friend November 2017
Friend December 2019 “For Older Kids” Start a cookbook of family recipes and make one of the recipes together.
Saving Family Stories
Friend June 2022 “For Older Kids” Ask an older family member to tell you a story about their life. Write or record it to save on FamilySearch.org
Friend September 2020 “For Older Kids” Part of family history is discovering who you are. Use these questions to learn about your name, and then write down everything you learn. Why were you given your name? Do any of your family members or ancestors share your name? When people hear your name, what do you want them to think of?
Friend January 2020 “For Older Kids” Find a photo of you or your family that you can tell a story about. Write down or tell someone everything you remember about that day.
Friend August 2019 “For Older Kids” Ask a family member to tell you about a day that changed their life. Make an audio recording of their story or write it down.
Friend August 2019
Friend June 2019 “For Older Kids” Do you have a funny family story? Interview a family member and write it down. Maybe you could share it for home evening.
Read 3 Nephi 23:6–13 If the Savior were to examine the records our family has kept, what questions might He ask us? Are there any important events or spiritual experiences that we should record? Now might be a good time to create or add to a family record and counsel together about what to include. Younger family members might enjoy decorating your record with photographs or drawings. Why is it important to record our family’s spiritual experiences?Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 ” 3 Nephi 20–26: Ye Are the Children of the Covenant”
1 Nephi CHAPTER 6 Nephi writes of the things of God—Nephi’s purpose is to persuade men to come unto the God of Abraham and be saved. About 600–592 B.C.
1 Nephi CHAPTER 9 Nephi makes two sets of records—Each is called the plates of Nephi—The larger plates contain a secular history; the smaller ones deal primarily with sacred things. About 600–592 B.C.
These verses could inspire your family to keep a record of important events and experiences from your lives. Maybe you could start a family journal, similar to the records Nephi and Lehi kept about their family’s experiences. What might you include in your family record? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020
Friend January 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Plain and Precious Plates” The Lord told Nephi to make another set of plates for a special and wise purpose (see 1 Nephi 9). Make your own set of plates out of folded paper or pieces of cardboard. (You can even wrap your paper or cardboard with aluminum foil!) Write or draw what you learn from the Book of Mormon on your plates.
Family History Stories Influences
Friend September 2017 “Following Faithful Examples” Elder Rasband keeps a painting in his office that reminds him of his ancestors stories of faith and sacrifice because it helps him remember their good examples.
Friend December 2016 “For Parents of Little Ones” Tell your child true stories of your childhood or about them when they were younger. Tell them the stories as you drive in the car or before bedtime, etc.
Friend July 2016 Link also includes a funny family history story about ducks.
Valiant: Doing the right thing even when it is difficult or we are afraid. Being valiant means to have the courage to face challenges or dangers.
Friend July 2021 “Vaha’i Tonga”Vahai’ was determined to remain faithful, so he said his prayers every night at boarding school. At first the other kids made fun of him, then they started to join him. He invited them to a district conference and 77 of them came. Seven of them wanted to be baptized after the conference.
Friend January 2021 “Oliver the Brave” Oliver has a bad dream about monsters. He prayed, but it didn’t go away. His parents tell him he needs to do more than just pray. So he thinks of other things he can do such as singing “I am a Child of God”, and it worked.
Friend August 2020 “Maddy’s Courage” Maddy didn’t want to start school because she was afraid. Her mom reminded her of sometimes we have to do brave and hard things, such as Daniel facing the lions, or Nephi crossing the ocean, or Esther talking to the king. And just like Heavenly Father helped all of those people, He would help her too.
Friend December 2019 “Brave Like Joseph” Isabel got bumps all over her arms and legs that lasted months. The medicine made blisters and the blisters got infected. She had to go to the hospital, but she was afraid. Here mom told her about Joseph Smith’s bone surgery on his leg when he was her age. He was scared too, but he knew Heavenly Father would help him. Isabel thought that if Joseph could do that surgery, she could go to the hospital.
Heavenly Father will Help
Friend April 2021 “The Sister Solo” Sophie loved to sing and wanted to take a singing class, but she had hearing problems and was afraid. Her sister volunteered to take the choir class too. Sophie was getting comfortable and having fun, but then she had problems with one of her solos. She prayed for help and the teacher suggested she sing the solo with her sister.
Friend March 2022 “Stage Fright”Grant and his mom were going to perform a clogging dance for the ward talent show, but he got stage fright and ran. His mom found him and they said a prayer together. He knew Heavenly Father would help him, and they performed proudly.
Friend May 2022 “A Prayer in the Storm” Alexis was scared of the thunder in the storm and didn’t feel safe. She found her dad and asked if they could say a prayer. After the prayer she felt peaceful and wasn’t afraid anymore.
Friend October 2022 “Being Brave” Brayden was scared to talk in front of so many people for the Primary program. His father suggested saying a prayer to help him fell brave. It helped him feel better and he was able to say his part and remember all the words.
How to Respond to Our Trials so They Bring Us Closer to God
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 53-63”Here’s an object lesson that can help your family understand that we can choose to be either “hardened” or “softened” by our trials: Place a raw potato and a raw egg in a pot of boiling water. The potato and the egg represent us, and the water represents the trials we face. As the potato and egg boil, you could talk about some of the trials your family faces. What are some different ways to react to trials like these? According to Alma 62:41, how do our reactions to trials affect us? After the potato and egg are fully cooked, cut open the potato and crack open the egg to show that the same “trial” softened the potato and hardened the egg. What can our family do to be sure that our trials humble us and bring us closer to God?
Friend February 2020 “Six Ways to Feel Better” When you’re upset, color the face that matches how you feel, or draw a new face. Then color the ideas for feeling better.
Friend July 2021 “Winfred’s New Recipe” Winfred is sad because she misses her father who has to work far away, and she misses her friends because of Covid. She figures out a recipe for happiness which includes prayer, reading scriptures, having faith, being grateful, and serving others.
Friend April 2019 “Funstuff: Scripture Lifelines” Find the scripture helps on the life preserver that go along with difficulty you may be experiencing.
Friend September 2018 “Feelings First-Aid-Kit” Ways to feel better when feeling sad or afraid,
Ensign September 2018“Suicide Prevention” “Help your children create a plan for when they feel sad or upset. An example could be to (1) put words to their feelings by saying, “I am feeling …”; (2) pray to Heavenly Father for help; (3) do something active they enjoy; and (4) if the feelings do not go away, tell an adult about how they feel.”
Do you ever feel worried when things change? The pioneers faced big changes but still found ways to be happy. You can too!
Focus on what won’t change, like Heavenly Father’s love for you. You might have some feelings you don’t understand. That’s OK! Talk to a parent or write about your feelings in a journal. Look for the good things that might come from a big change. For example, if you have to change schools, think about the chance to make new friends.
Also see Journaling as a way to cope with difficulty Friend June 2016 During adversity you have to keep moving in order to progress forward, like riding a bicycle.
Ensign February 2020 “How Do I Talk to My Kids about Mental Health?” How to talk to children about their distressed emotional thoughts and feelings.
Sometimes it may seem like there are lots of scary things going on in the world. If you feel worried or scared, here are some things you can do.
Talk to a trusted adult about your worries.
Write about your feelings in a journal.
Take deep breaths, listen to peaceful music, or do something else to help you feel calm.
Pray to Heavenly Father for peace and comfort.
Think of small things you can do to help.
Friend September 2021 “Find the Flowers” When Elder Koch was young, he felt peace sitting in his family’s garden. Where do you feel peace? (Activity: Find the patterns of flowers on the left in the garden below.)
New Era February 2020 “Couch Potato” Cartoon shows two ways to deal with failure. One is not healthy and does not allow you to learn and grow. The other way is healthy, such as looking for ways to do better next time, eating healthy foods, getting rest, going to the temple.
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)
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 2021 “The Baptism Journal” A girl misses her friends during Covid and she prays for peace. She is inspired to look at her baptism journal. It reminds her of her testimony and that the Holy Ghost can comfort her. She shares it with a lonely neighbor and explains that it reminds her that Jesus loves her.
Friend August 2017 “Ralphie’s Amazing Find” A boy is upset that his best friend is moving. He takes his dog for a walk, and his dog discovers a beautiful waterfall. The boy feels God’s love for him.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 40–49” When we make covenants with the Lord, He makes promises to be with us—even during our trials. Help the children see themselves as part of the Lord’s covenant people and as recipients of His promises.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 40-49” It must have been discouraging, even devastating, for the Israelites to find themselves captive in Babylon. Many may have wondered if they had forever lost their place as God’s chosen, covenant people. Isaiah’s message to them and to us is simple: “Fear not” (Isaiah 43:1). All is not lost. The Lord has not forgotten you, and He has power over situations that seem out of your control. “Return unto me,” He pleads, “for I have redeemed thee” (Isaiah 44:22). He can heal, restore, strengthen, forgive, and comfort—whatever is needed for you.
Write on the board I am … and I will … Invite the children to read Isaiah 41:10 and Isaiah 43:1–5 to find out who the Lord says He is and what He says He will do. What other phrases are repeated in these verses? How might these messages give us comfort and hope during hard times?
Friend September 2019 “The Diabetes Dilemma” Joe prayed that his sister didn’t have diabetes. When they found out she did have diabetes, he was devastated. He didn’t understand why Heavenly Father didn’t answer his prayer. His mom explained that answers to prayers don’t always happen the way we want. Sometimes, instead of taking something hard away, He answers by giving us peace and helping us be strong. Joe then realizes that Heavenly Father was blessing his sister and family with peace.
Friend August 2023 “Never Really Alone” Ethan has brittle bone disease, a sickness that made his bones break easily. One night, after breaking his leg at school when stepping off a swing, he becomes worried that someday he might break a bone when no one is there to help. His father tells him that Heavenly Father is always watching over him and that he is never really alone.
Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ will help us and never leave us. (Jr)
Invite the children to draw a picture of a time when someone comforted them when they were afraid. Read Hebrews 13:5–6 to them, and testify that Heavenly Father will help us and never leave us. Help the children cut out paper hearts large enough to cover the drawings. What are some things that help us feel closer to Heavenly Father? Write some of these things on the hearts. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )
Friend December 2021 “Carrying Spotty” Abbie got a new puppy. She helped him feel safe when he was scared. She carried him when he was tired. In Primary, Abbie learned that Jesus suffered for us and took upon him our sorrows. He can carry us through our trials. She realized that Jesus helps her kind of like she helps her puppy. He helped her feel safe when she was afraid of the dark. He helped her feel stronger when she was worried.
Print the below hearts onto pink or red paper, one page per child.
Ask the children to read Isaiah 49:14. What might make people feel forgotten or forsaken? How can we help others know that the Lord has not forgotten them? How do we know He has not forgotten us?
Invite the children to talk about someone they know who they will never forget, like a family member or friend. Discuss how a loving mother feels about her children and how the Lord feels about us. Then ask the children to read Isaiah 49:15–16. According to these verses, why will the Lord never forget us? Invite the children to share their feelings about Jesus Christ.
Zeniff admitted that he had made mistakes. He was overzealous at times, and he had put his people—the ancestors of Limhi’s people—in a difficult situation by making an ill-advised agreement with King Laman. But later, when he went to battle against the Lamanites, he helped his people face their challenges with faith. As you read Mosiah 9–10, look for what Zeniff’s people did to show their faith. How did God strengthen them? What does it mean to you to go forth “in the strength of the Lord”? (Mosiah 9:17; 10:10–11).
When children face challenges, they sometimes feel weak and helpless. How will you help your children rely on the Lord’s strength? You could ask them what we do to become physically strong. What does it mean to have “the strength of men”? (see Mosiah 10:11). What does it mean to have “the strength of the Lord”? (see Mosiah 9:17–18; 10:10). How do we receive the strength of the Lord? Your children could draw a picture of things that help them receive the strength of the Lord.
Friend April 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Mosiah 9:17–18 together and help your little ones say, “God will help me be strong.” Set out objects of different weights and have your children try to lift each one. Then show them that with your help, they can lift so much more! Testify that God will help us be strong enough to do hard things when we trust Him.
For the Strength of Youth August 2024 “Faith and a Fall” A boy thinks the Lord will help him be indestructible like the Stripling Warriors. Then he learns that they weren’t indestructible, but they trusted in the Lord and he helped strengthen them in their trials.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 God is aware of our trials and sorrows, and He wants to comfort and encourage us. Help the children build their faith in Him so they will turn to Him in times of need.
Ask one of the children to read Psalm 102:1–2. How can the Lord help us during our times of trouble? How do we ask for His help? Share an experience in which you felt that God heard your prayers when you were in need, and invite the children to share their experiences and testimonies.
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.
Invite the children to find words of comfort and hope in Psalm 103. How could these words help people facing challenges? Encourage the children to write down phrases they found meaningful to remind them that the Lord can help them when they have trials.
Could draw a sad face on the board and have the children erase parts (or change them) as they find a word or phrase that helps remind them that the Lord can help them with trials.
3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with loving kindness and tender mercies;
5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
6 The Lord executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed
Share the story in Acts 23:10–11 of the Savior visiting Paul in prison. Or show the video “Be of Good Cheer” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), which portrays this story. Share a time when you had a trial and received guidance and comfort from God. Ask the children to share times when they felt comforted by God.
Write on the board Acts 23:10–11; Acts 27:18–25; and Acts 28:1–6. Show pictures of a jail, a ship, and a snake, and invite the children to review these verses and match them with the pictures. In each of these accounts, how did the Lord show Paul that He was with him?
Explain that King Limhi’s people were in trouble, so he shared a story to help them have faith. Read Mosiah 7:19 to the children, see “The Passover” and “The Israelites in the Wilderness” and Moses Parting the Red Sea, ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Maybe your children would like to act them out. How did the Lord help the people in these stories? How can He help us?
For more examples of how the Lord helps us, select some verses of “Book of Mormon Stories” or “Nephi’s Courage” (Children’s Songbook, 118–19, 120–21) to sing with your children. Help them identify how the Lord helped people in the Book of Mormon—and how He can help us.
How did the people in these stories show that they trusted in God? How did the Lord help these people?
What stories from our lives or our ancestors’ lives can we share to inspire greater trust in God?
Friend April 2020 “Family Night Fun”Heroes with God’s Help: Make your own faith hero cards! Draw pictures of people in the scriptures who did something hard with God’s help. On one of your hero cards, draw a picture of yourself. What hard things can you do with God’s help?
Read Mosiah 7:33 to the children, and help them understand what the verse teaches us to do to receive help from the Lord. Help the children think of actions to represent these things, and repeat the verse while they do the actions. What are some things we need help with? How can we show that we trust the Lord? Share an experience when you trusted the Lord and He helped you.
Invite three children to write a trial or challenge they face on the board. Ask a child to read Mosiah 7:33, and encourage the other children to erase one of the trials or challenges each time they hear something they can do to receive the Lord’s help. How can trusting in the Lord help us overcome our challenges?
In Mosiah 7, Limhi reminds his people of instances when God has delivered groups out of physical bondage. Likewise, the Lord is willing and able to deliver us from spiritual bondage.
On strips of paper, write the tools that Satan uses to keep us in spiritual bondage (pornography, alcohol, immorality, and so on).
Connect the paper strips to make a paper chain.
Bind someone’s wrists with the paper chain.
Read Mosiah 7:33 aloud. As you discuss ways we can turn to the Lord, trust Him, and serve Him, break the chain to represent how the Lord can deliver us.
Discussion: What does it mean to “turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart”? How do we “serve him with all diligence of mind”?
Elder Costa shared the story of when Jesus Christ calmed the storm. We all have storms, or challenges, in life that are hard. But we will never have to face them alone. Having faith in Jesus Christ will give us the power and peace we need to face any storm.
President Freeman told a story about when she wanted to visit a special trail, even though her ankle was hurt. She could not walk the trail by herself, so the trail guide helped her. Just like President Freeman’s guide, Jesus Christ will help us with any challenge as we strive to keep our covenants.
This teaches me:
Friend February 2023 “Lost and Found Friends” Leah didn’t know anyone in her new class. She hoped she could make a friend. A girl named Anna sat next to and asked if Leah wanted to be friends. They were good friends through the year and played together every day. Then Anna started acting strange and not talking to her. When asked why, Anna said her new friend said Leah was weird and she didn’t think they could hang out anymore. Leah was hurt, but soon school ended and she was busy with lots of activities hanging out with her best friend. School was about to start and Leah was worried about not having a friend. She kept praying for help. Then on the first day of school she found that her best friend was in her class. Heavenly Father had helped her.
Friend February 2023 “How to Have Joy” In the winter of 1838, members of the Church had to leave their homes in Missouri, USA. It was very cold. Some spent the night outside near a campfire. They sang hymns and roasted potatoes.Sister Eliza R. Snow said, “Not a complaint was heard—all were cheerful.” Sometimes it doesn’t seem like we can feel joy when something bad happens. But joy comes from focusing on the Savior. (See more at link)
Job, a just and perfect man, is blessed with great riches—Satan obtains permission from the Lord to tempt and try Job—Job’s property and children are destroyed, and yet he praises and blesses the Lord.
Satan obtains permission from the Lord to afflict Job physically—Job is smitten with boils—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar come to comfort him.
Friend November 2020 “Conference Notes”President Eyring told a story about when he was a boy. He was pulling weeds in the garden. “This is too hard!” he said. His mom smiled. She told him it was supposed to be hard because life is a test. He learned that doing hard things is part of Heavenly Father’s plan.
As children face challenges throughout their lives, they will need faith that the Savior can help them during their trials and that those trials can “work together for [their] good”
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Job” Job trusted God and was able to remain faithful even when he faced very difficult trials. Job’s story can help children strengthen their faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ so they will be prepared to face their own difficult trials.
Invite the children to share what they know about Job, and help them understand what happened to him (see Job 1–2; “Job” in Old Testament Stories). .
Ask the children how they might feel if they were Job. Who can help us when sad things happen in our lives? Show a picture of Jesus Christ, and explain that Job’s faith in the Lord helped him during his trials (see Job 1:21).
Trust in God’s plan for you and that trials can work for your good. Trust that your prayers are heard and answered, even if it takes time. Trust that God loves you, and blessings will come.
Read to the children Job’s words in Job 13:15: “I trust in him.” To help the children understand what it means to trust in God, talk with them about other people they trust.
What do we trust Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ to do? Express your trust in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, and help the children think of ways they can show that they love and trust Them. (Such as keeping the commandments, praying, etc.)
Job testifies of the shortness of life, the certainty of death, and the guarantee of a resurrection—He asks, If a man die, will he live again?—Job answers that he will await the Lord’s call to come forth from the grave.
Job tells of the ills that have befallen him and then testifies, I know that my Redeemer lives—Job prophesies that he will be resurrected and that in his flesh he will see God.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Job” Everyone has difficult days, and some people have trials that last a long time. Job’s faith in God sustained him through his trials. Consider how his story can help the children build their faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ so that they will be able to face their trials, now and in the future.
Ask the children to share what they know about Job’s story. What kind of a person was he? What happened to him? How did he respond to his challenges? Point them to verses in Job 1–2 to help them tell the story (see Job 1:1, 13–22; 2:7–10; see also “Job” in Old Testament Stories). Invite the children to share what they feel is the main message of Job’s story.
Display a few pictures of Jesus Christ interacting with others, and ask the children what they feel these pictures teach us about who Jesus Christ is and what He is like. What else do we know about Him? Invite the children to read some of the following verses to find out some things Job knew about the Lord: Job 12:10, 13, 16; 19:25–27. Why is it valuable to know these things about the Savior?
Invite the children to read Job 19:14–19, and ask them what these verses say about how other people were treating Job. How might we feel if this happened to us? Invite the children to read Job 19:23–27 to find out how Job found comfort in this situation. What do these verses teach us about the Savior? Why is it important to know that He lives and loves us? (see John 17:3).
Sing together a song that testifies of Jesus Christ, such as “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” (Hymns, no. 136). What does the song suggest about why it is important to have a testimony that Jesus Christ lives? Tell the children how you know the Savior lives and why you are thankful for that knowledge. Encourage them to share their feelings and testimonies as well.
Job repents in dust and ashes—He sees the Lord with his eyes—The Lord chastises Job’s friends, accepts Job, blesses him, and makes his latter days greater than his beginning.
When you read 2 Nephi 8:3, you could show pictures of a desert and a garden. How does the Lord turn the deserts of our lives into gardens? In verses 4–7, what does the Lord counsel us to do in order to receive the joy described in verse 3?
Come Follow Me KidGarden Cupcake Treat (the Lord can turn the deserts of our lives into gardens) – Show pictures of desert and garden (below) while talking about some of the beautiful things that can be in our lives because of Jesus. Make brown cupcakes (or a cake to share) with no frosting to represent the desert. Place green frosting and icing flowers on top to model how Christ can help make our lives beautiful like a garden with lots of flowers. If you’re crafty and know how to make your own frosting flowers, feel free to do that. I’m not a crafty person, so we’ll probably just buy some pre-made ones.
New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) Draw a stick figure representing a [child].(Or have each of the children draw a stick figure representing themselves on a paper. Draw, or have the children draw, a backpack on the stick figure’s back to represent the burdens and stresses [children] today face. Write, or have the children write, at least five of those burdens or stresses in, on, or around the backpack.
Jesus Christ said, “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:30). A yoke helps two ani
Read Matthew 11:28–30, and show the picture of yoked oxen in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families. Ask the children to point to the oxen and the yoke. Explain that yoked oxen can pull more weight together than each could separately. Testify that when we feel sad, worried, or scared, we can seek Jesus and He will help us.
Ask a child to lift a heavy object. When he or she struggles, offer to help. How does Jesus help us do hard things? Share an experience when you felt Jesus help you do something hard, and ask the children to share experiences of their own.
Activity: Ask someone to move a heavy object across the room.
Friend December 2021 “Carrying Spotty” Abbie got a new puppy. She helped him feel safe when he was scared. She carried him when he was tired. In Primary, Abbie learned that Jesus suffered for us and took upon him our sorrows. He can carry us through our trials. She realized that Jesus helps her kind of like she helps her puppy. He helped her feel safe when she was afraid of the dark. He helped her feel stronger when she was worried.
Jesus will help me as I come unto Him. (Older Children)
Invite the children to share a time when they were worried or anxious about something. Invite them to search Matthew 11:28–30 for counsel that can help them in similar circumstances. How does the Savior “give [us] rest”? (verse 28).
New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) Draw a stick figure representing a [child].(Or have each of the children draw a stick figure representing themselves on a paper. Draw, or have the children draw, a backpack on the stick figure’s back to represent the burdens and stresses [children] today face. Write, or have the children write, at least five of those burdens or stresses in, on, or around the backpack.
Jesus Christ said, “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:30). A yoke helps two animals pull something together. When we choose to follow Jesus, He can help us with our trials.
Activity: Ask someone to move a heavy object across the room. Then have them move that object with someone’s help. Talk about how our burdens are lighter when we turn to the Savior for help.
President Russell M. Nelson taught: “You come unto Christ to be yoked with Him and with His power, so that you’re not pulling life’s load alone. You’re pulling life’s load yoked with the Savior and Redeemer of the world, and suddenly your problems, no matter how serious they are, become lighter” (“The Mission and Ministry of the Savior: A Discussion with Elder Russell M. Nelson,” Ensign, June 2005, 18).
Also see Red Crystal for additional teaching ideas.
Invite the children to draw pictures of things they are doing to come unto Jesus and learn of Him.
In order to receive the Savior’s help and the rest He offers, we must come unto Him. Consider watching “Come unto Christ: 2014 Theme Song” (4:48) to see examples of how someone can come unto the Savior. (Have the children look for how the teenagers come unto Christ when they have difficulties such as illness, loneliness, temptation, family contention, etc. Ideas include pray for help, repent of sins, study his words in the scriptures, follow Jesus’s example and serve others, go to church and learn of him, take the sacrament and think about what Jesus has done for us, commit to keeping his commandments and remembering him always, etc.) You may also have them look for the way the Lord helped ease the burdens of the teens as they came unto him.
Help the children think of examples of hard things that Jesus went through, such as being mocked or made fun of. Explain that we will have hard times in our lives. Read 1 Peter 1:6–7; 3:14 together, and share an experience when you faced a “trial of your faith” and the Savior helped you find joy. Or you could share the Prophet Joseph Smith’s prayer in Liberty Jail and the comfort God gave him (see Doctrine and Covenants 121:1–8; 123:17). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)
Friend November 2023 “The Tryouts” Jared was excited to try out for the regional basketball team. Only a few players get invited to try out for it. But when he found out it was on Sunday his excitement faded. But he knew God was more important than basketball. He said a prayer and afterwards felt a comforting feeling that everything would be okay. Two days later he got an email saying tryouts would be on Saturday instead. He prepared very hard for the tryout and did his best but wasn’t selected. Then, a comforting thought came to him. “Things won’t always work out how I want,” he said. “But Jesus Christ knows exactly how I feel. He’s on my side.”
Em is Crafty “Come Follow Me 2019 – Lesson Plans for young kids: Lesson 43” Popcorn Kernels – Since God and Jesus know and love us, does that mean we’ll never have to go through anything hard in our lives? Set out an uncooked popcorn kernel and ask if this looks good to them. What needs to happen in order to make this kernel even better? (We need to give it some heat). Read/discuss/summarize 1 Peter 1:7 and 1 Peter 5:10-11 and explain that hard things we go through (trials of our faith) are more precious than gold and can help turn us into better people than we would’ve been otherwise. Remind them that God is “the God of all grace,” and He is the one who can change us into better people. Just like heat applied to popcorn kernels can change them into something much better, trials that we go through can turn us into better people if we rely on the Lord. Pop some popcorn to eat while sharing the examples in the following activity.
Brainstorm some things that could be trials of our faith and talk about how we can remain strong and become better people because of them (getting up to do the primary program in front of everyone, listening to scriptures instead of playing with toys, sharing instead of keeping favorite toy to self, sitting through sacrament quietly, obeying Mom/Dad when don’t want to, being patient instead of getting mad, etc.)
The children you teach may have experienced some form of teasing or mocking because of what they believe. These verses can help them during those times.
Summarize a few stories about Jesus being persecuted, or invite the children to read them—see, for example, Matthew 12:9–14 or Luke 22:47–54. Ask the children if they have ever been teased or mocked because they live the teachings of Jesus Christ. How did it make them feel? Then read together 1 Peter 3:12–14; 4:13–14, 16, and ask the children to look for what Peter said about suffering “for righteousness’ sake.” Why can we still be happy when other people mock us for doing what is right? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)
Friend July 2021 “Vaha’i Tonga”Vahai’ was determined to remain faithful, so he said his prayers every night at boarding school. At first the other kids made fun of him, then they started to join him. He invited them to a district conference and 77 of them came. Seven of them wanted to be baptized after the conference.
(Paul encouraged the Saints to rejoice—even though they faced difficult trials and Paul himself was in prison. How will you help the children see that following Jesus Christ brings joy?) Ask the children to listen for a repeated word as you read Philippians 4:4. Ask the children to show you what they do when they rejoice. Tell the children why you “rejoice in the Lord”—why you feel happy because of Jesus Christ. Let the children share how they feel about Jesus. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Philippians; Colossians”)
Show objects or pictures that represent things that help you “rejoice in the Lord” (Philippians 4:4), such as His creations, a temple, His Resurrection, or a family. Let the children take turns selecting a picture or object, and then tell them why it makes you happy. Invite them to share things that help them rejoice in the Lord.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Philippians; Colossians”)
Ask the children to imagine that they are in prison, as the Apostle Paul was when he wrote the Epistle to the Philippians. Read Philippians 4:4–13 with the children, and ask them to look for the words “rejoice,” “peace,” and “content.” Why was Paul able to rejoice and feel peace even in prison? Then ask the children to find the words “Lord,” “God,” and “Christ” in the verses. Help them understand that Paul’s faith in Jesus Christ made it possible for him to rejoice. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Philippians; Colossians”)
Life is not meant to be free from difficulty, but you can help the children discover that they can still find a fulness of joy through Jesus Christ.
Put water in a cup. Ask the children to name things the Savior has done for us so that we can have joy, and invite them to drop a pebble in the cup for each thing they name until the cup is full. Read with the children Doctrine and Covenants 101:36, and ask them to look for how we can have a fulness of joy. What are some things we can do to “seek … the Lord” (verse 38) so we can have the joy that He wants to give us?
Story: When things are hard, we can pray for help. Because of the Savior, we can feel comfort and peace. (See Philippians 4:4–7.)
Song: “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75)
Activity: On page 10, read a story about a girl who felt Jesus Christ’s love. Then think about a time you felt peaceful because of Him. Write about it or draw a picture.
Invite the children to help you complete sentences like the following: “I can be in the dark and still see things if I have a . I can be outside on a hot day and still feel cool if I have a . I can have hard times and still find joy if I .” What does Philippians 4:4–13 suggest we can do to find joy? Invite the children to share some hymns or scriptures about Jesus that can help them feel joy during hard times.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Philippians; Colossians”)
Write the first word of each pair below on slips of paper and hand them out to the children. Ask each child to think of a word that means the opposite of the word on his or her paper. Let each child say the opposite word he or she has thought of while the rest of the class tries to guess the positive word on the child’s paper. (You may want to write both words on the board for more emphasis.)
Satan wants us to feel afraid and unhappy. Heavenly Father wants us to follow him so we can be happy. The more we learn the gospel, the better prepared we are to know and do what is truth and right and be not afraid in this world.
Friend July 2017 “Fighting off Falsehoods” The gospel truths help us fight against the falsehooods of Satan that we see and hear on media. Match the falsehood with the truth.
The Savior can lift me “up out of [my] afflictions.”
Help the children list on the board some of the afflictions or challenges that Joseph Smith and other early Saints were facing (see “Chapter 11: More People Join the Church,” Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 46–47 or watch the video below.
Joseph Smith suffered many trials, but he was able to “be patient in afflictions” because the Lord promised that He would always be with him.
Friend April 2018 “Trouble in Adventure Forest” When Owen’s feet get burned he learns that Heavenly Father doesn’t always stop bad things from happening, but He helps us get through them.
Invite the children to discover what the Lord said to Joseph about his afflictions in Doctrine and Covenants 24:1, 8. How can we seek the Savior’s help when we are having a difficult time?
8 Be apatient in bafflictions, for thou shalt have many; but cendure them, for, lo, I am with thee, even unto the dend of thy days.
Friend September 2020 “For Older Kids” “Once I had a good friend. We had been friends for years. But she just stopped being my friend when a new girl moved in. It made me sad, so I said a prayer. I thought of the words from a song: “Courage, for the Lord is on our side” (Hymns, no. 243). I’m happy that Heavenly Father is with me and can help me through this trial.” Scarlett W.
Teach the children that sometimes we need to be “patient in [our] afflictions,” you could show the video “Continue in Patience” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Ask the children to think of something they really want but have to wait for. Why does the Lord sometimes require us to have patience during challenging times in our lives? How does He let us know that He is “with [us]” during our afflictions?
Ensign August 2019 “Family Study Fun: Pillar Tower of Doom” Life’s obstacles can fill us with hopelessness and impede us from feeling God’s love. Christ can help. Create a tall tower of pillows and sofa cushions (life’s challenges). Sit someone behind the tower and turn off the lights. Shine a flashlight beam (God’s love) at the person behind the tower, with the pillows blocking the light. Invite someone (acting as Christ would) to knock down the pillows to let God’s love shine through. Discussion: Share a time when life was hard, you felt discouraged, and then God’s love reached you when you turned to Him in prayer in the name of Jesus Christ.
After describing the wickedness he had seen, Mormon told his son not to grieve. What does it mean to you for Christ to “lift [you] up”? Moroni 9:25–26
Fill a clear container with water, and drop two objects into it—one that floats and one that sinks. Compare the floating object to a person who has hope in Christ. Read together Moroni 9:25. How does Christ “lift [us] up” when we face difficult trials? Help the children think of ways they can keep the Savior and His encouraging teachings “in [their] mind forever.”
Ask the children to think of someone they know who is having a hard time with something. Invite the children to draw a picture for the person that can remind him or her to have hope in Jesus Christ.
Friend May 2021 “Faith Will Move Mountains” Jesus promised that if we “have faith as a grain of mustard seed,” we will be able to move mountains (Matthew 17:20). Your mountains may be loneliness, doubt, illness, or other problems. The mustard seed represents a small but growing faith.
Jesus Christ Knows How I Feel. He has Descended Below All Things.
Friend November 2024 “Praying for Alejandro” Gerardo is worried about his brother who has cancer. His brother needs surgery but is too old for the Children’s hospital. So Gerardo prayed for help for his brother. They watched a video together about Jesus suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane, and he wondered why Jesus had to hurt so much. He learned that Jesus felt all the pain we go through so he can know how to help us. Gerardo felt warm inside knowing that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ knew how to help Alejandro. The next day they learn that the children’s hospital would do Gerardo’s brother’s surgery.
In Liberty Jail, Jesus Christ told Joseph Smith that He had descended below all things (see Doctrine and Covenants 122:8). This means that He knows what we are going through and we can turn to Him.
To help the children learn to turn to Christ when they experience hard things, ask them to show you what their faces look like when they are sad or hurt or scared. Who can help us when we feel this way? Read Doctrine and Covenants 122:8, and explain that this means that Jesus Christ knows how we feel, and He can help us.
Sing together “Jesus Once Was a Little Child” (Children’s Songbook, 55), and testify that Jesus Christ can help us because He knows how we feel.
Who has felt the pain of all of these trials? Imagine how it would feel to carry them all.
Discussion: In what ways does the Lord understand us, help us, and turn our trials into experiences that “shall be for [our] good”? (Doctrine and Covenants 122:7). For ideas, see Jeffrey R. Holland, “Lessons from Liberty Jail,” Ensign, Sept. 2009, 29–32.
Joseph Smith learned that none of the adversity he experienced during his mortal life would ever equal what Jesus Christ suffered during His mortal mission.
Jesus descended to be tempted, mocked, scourged, cast out, and disowned, even though He was all-powerful.
He descended to be judged of the world, even though He was the Judge of the world.
He descended to be lifted on the cross and slain for the sins of the world, even though no man could take away His life.
“Jesus, in the course of the Atonement, experienced all of the heartache and sorrow, all of the disappointments and injustices that the entire family of man had experienced and would experience from Adam and Eve to the end of the world in order that we would not have to face them so severely or so deeply. However heavy our load might be, it would be a lot heavier if the Savior had not gone that way before us and carried that burden with us and for us.”
“Furthermore, we note that not only has the Savior suffered, in His case entirely innocently, but so have most of the prophets and other great men and women recorded in the scriptures. The point is this: if you are having a bad day, you’ve got a lot of company—very, very good company. The best company that has ever lived” (“Lessons from Liberty Jail,” 31).
“And the world, because of their iniquity, shall judge him to be a thing of naught; wherefore they scourge him, and he suffereth it; and they smite him, and he suffereth it. Yea, they spit upon him, and he suffereth it, because of his loving kindness and his long-suffering towards the children of men.”2
Ask the children who they would go to if they were having a difficult problem, and why. Read with the children Isaiah 55:8–9, and ask them to listen for why we should seek the Lord’s guidance when we need help.
Draw on the board the sky and the ground, and label them Heavens and Earth. Then invite the children to read Isaiah 55:9 to find out what the Lord compared to the heavens and the earth, and ask them to add these other labels to the drawings. What does it mean that the Lord’s ways and thoughts are “higher” than ours? Why is it important to know this?
Heavenly Father sees and knows all things. He can help us get to a higher place so we can see as well.
Discuss with the children some of the Lord’s ways that are higher than our ways. For example, what is His way of treating sinners? (see Mark 2:15–17). What is His way of leading others? (see Matthew 20:25–28). How are His ways different from the ways of others? Tell the children how you have learned to trust the Lord’s higher ways and thoughts.
The Lord is all powerful and can preserve me [and help me].
On the way back to Kirtland, Joseph Smith and other Church leaders had a life-threatening experience on the Missouri River (see Saints, 1:133–34).
The Lord used this opportunity to warn and instruct His servants. What do you find in Doctrine and Covenants 60:4; 61:1–2, 36; 62:1 that encourages you to put your trust in the Lord as you face your own challenges?
Help the children find and make a list of some of the characteristics of Jesus as you read Doctrine and Covenants 60–62
How could you help your family remember that the Savior is “in [our] midst”? (Doctrine and Covenants 61:36) You could decide together where to prominently display a picture of Him in your home. How can we invite the Savior into our daily lives?
What reason do we see in Doctrine and Covenants 61:36 to “be of good cheer”? (see also John 16:33). Perhaps your family could write or draw pictures of things that bring them joy and collect them in a “good cheer” jar. (Be sure to include pictures of the Savior and reminders of His love for us.) Throughout the week when family members need a reminder of reasons to be happy, they could choose something from the jar.
When I am afraid or in danger, Jesus can help me feel peace. (Junior)
Help the children imagine that they are on the ship as you read Mark 4:35–41. (See also “Chapter 21: Jesus Commands the Winds and the Waves,” in New Testament Stories, 53, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.) Ask the children to describe how they might have felt if they had been there. When have the children been scared? How did they find comfort?
Friend March 2023 What are some things that scare your little ones? Calmly talk about one of those fears. Then help them say, “When I am afraid, Jesus can help me feel peace.”
Story: Read the story of Jesus Christ calming the storm on page 46 or in Mark 4:36–41. Talk about ways Jesus brings you peace.
Song: “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75)
Activity: Stand in a circle and hold the sides of a blanket. Put a ball on the blanket and gently toss it around, like the ship was tossed on the waves. Take turns telling the group to go fast, slow down, or “be still.”
Invite the children to make the sounds of a storm and stop when someone says “Peace, be still.” Testify that just as Jesus can bring us peace when there is a storm outside, He can bring us peace in our hearts when we feel bad on the inside.
Friend March 2023 “The Earthquake Prayer” Violet woke up when she felt an earthquake. She and her family ran to the kitchen and crawled under the table. They had practiced what to do in an earthquake, but Violet was scared. She said a prayer, and felt like someone was giving her a hug. She was glad Heavenly Father helped her feel peace.
Teach the children actions to accompany the third verse of “Tell Me the Stories of Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 57), and sing the verse together while doing the actions.
When I am afraid or in danger, Jesus can help me feel peace. (Senior)
Ask one of the children to use Mark 4:35–41 and the picture Jesus Calms the Storm (Gospel Art Book, no. 40) to tell the story of Jesus calming the storm. Ask the children to describe how they might have felt if they had been there.
Invite the children to share experiences when they felt peace after praying for help. Remind them that this peace comes from the Savior.
Friend March 2023 “The Earthquake Prayer” Violet woke up when she felt an earthquake. She and her family ran to the kitchen and crawled under the table. They had practiced what to do in an earthquake, but Violet was scared. She said a prayer, and felt like someone was giving her a hug. She was glad Heavenly Father helped her feel peace.
Give each child a paper rain cloud, and ask them to write on it a trial that someone might have. Put all of the clouds on the board, covering a picture of the Savior. Invite a child to remove one of the clouds and suggest ways we could help someone with that trial to find peace. When all the clouds are removed, testify of the Savior’s power to calm the storms in our lives.
Friend March 2023 “Peace from the Savior” President Eyring gives ideas on how to feel peace even during difficult times such as remembering the Savior and following him.
The Savior has the power to calm any storm in your life. He can heal your pain, ease your burdens, and provide light when you’re in darkness.
It’s important to remember that sometimes the Lord calms the storms in your life, and sometimes He instead calms and comforts you while the storm rages on. When you have faith in Him, you also trust in His will and timing. You believe that He will help you, regardless of when your peace and calm actually arrive.
When you’re lonely, sad, anxious, or waiting for promised blessings, remember this question: Are you waiting for “a great calm” with a fearful heart or with a faithful heart?
Share the account of the man with palsy from Mark 2:1–12. For help, see “Chapter 23: The Man Who Could Not Walk” (in New Testament Stories, 57–58, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Explain that the man with palsy could not walk. Help them recognize that this man was healed by the Savior.
Invite the children to talk about a time when they were sick. Tell one of the accounts of Jesus healing the sick, such as Matthew 8:1–4, 5–13, 14–15; Mark 3:1–5; Luke 7:11–16. Invite the children to retell the story in their own words. Testify that Jesus’s power can heal, bless, and comfort us.
Friend May 2016 “Bad Day in the Badlands” Topher and his classmates get sick on a school trip. Topher gets a priesthood blessing.
Friend May 2016
“Jesus Heals the Sick” (April 2015 Liahona and Friend) Figures to tell stories from New Testament about Jesus Healing the Sick.
Matthew 8:1–4 ; Mark 1:40–42Jesus heals a leper.A leper would have been shunned from society because leprosy was a painful, contagious, and sometimes deadly disease. Most people would have avoided approaching or touching him.
“Lesson 13: Jesus Christ Heals the Sick,” Primary 7: New Testament Explain that lepers suffer a terrible form of skin disease. Because leprosy was thought to be highly contagious, those with the disease were often not allowed to live in the cities and they were shunned by those without leprosy.
After Jesus healed the leper, what did He ask him to do? (Mark 1:43–44.) What does this tell us about how we should help others?
Matthew 8:5–8, 13Jesus heals a centurion’s servant.A centurion was a commanding officer of about 100 men in the Roman military. Many Jews in Jesus’s day hated Roman soldiers because of religious differences and because they represented the nation that had conquered them.
Jesus healed man with withered hand on the Sabbath.
What do you learn about Jesus Christ from these miracles?
Jesus can perform miracles in my life as I have faith in Him.
Ask the children to pick one of the following miracles to read about and draw: Matthew 8:1–4, 5–13, 14–15; Mark 2:1–12; 3:1–5; Luke 7:11–16. Invite the children to explain their drawings to the class. What do we learn about Jesus from these stories?
Ask the children to act out how they feel when they are sick, sad, afraid, or worried. How can Jesus help us when we have these feelings? Testify that Jesus can help the children in all of these situations.
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.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “2 Kings 2-7” Elisha multiplies the widow’s oil—He promises a son to a Shunammite woman—The child dies and is raised to life by Elisha—He makes the poisonous food harmless—Bread and grain are multiplied for the people to eat.
Naaman, the Syrian, comes to Elisha to be healed of leprosy—He rejects the prophet’s instruction at first but relents and dips himself in the Jordan seven times; he is healed—Elisha refuses to accept a reward—Gehazi accepts a gift from Naaman and is cursed with leprosy.
Share one or more of the miracles recorded in 2 Kings 4–5 (see “Elisha the Prophet” and “Elisha Heals Naaman” in Old Testament Stories). Let the children share what they like about these stories. Invite them to retell the stories to each other.
Testify that the Lord can use His power to do great things to help us. We call these things miracles. Share how the Lord has shown His love for you in ways that are large or small. Sing together a song about God’s love, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29). Ask the children to share how they know Heavenly Father loves them.
God can work miracles in my life. (Older Children)
Invite the children to write on the board as many miracles as they can remember from the scriptures. Then give them time to review 2 Kings 4–5 and add to their list (see 2 Kings 4:1–7, 14–17, 32–35, 38–41, 42–44; 5:10–14). What do these miracles teach about how Heavenly Father feels about us?
Ask the children to talk about what a miracle is. If they need help, they could review “Miracle” in Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite them to share some miracles that Jesus performed. Media Library “Life of Jesus Christ: Miracles” Talk about how you have seen God’s power in your life. You might include daily miracles such as feelings of peace, the gift of daily life, or help with daily tasks. Invite the children to talk about miracles in their lives, both large and small.
Read 2 Kings 6:15 to the children, or paraphrase it so they can understand. Invite the children to imagine they are surrounded by a large army with horses and chariots, as Elisha’s servant was. How would they feel? What would they do? Ask them to close their eyes while you read 2 Kings 6:16–17 to them. When you get to the words “open his eyes,” ask the children to open their eyes. Describe to them what the servant saw protecting him and Elisha. Share how you know the Lord is watching over us.
Sing together a song about God’s care for us, such as the first verse of “Dearest Children, God Is Near You” (Hymns, no. 96). Replace words in the song with names of the children to emphasize that God is watching over them.
Read together 2 Kings 6:15–17. Invite one of the children to pretend to be Elisha’s servant while the other children ask questions about his experience, such as how he felt when the Syrian army surrounded the city or what it was like to see the army of God. Talk with the children about times when they feel alone in trying to live the gospel. How does the Lord help us know that we are not alone?
Sing a song about relying on the Lord, such as “When Faith Endures” (Hymns, no. 128). What does this song teach us about trusting in the Lord?
Family members might enjoy drawing a picture of the experience of Elisha and his servant described in these verses. How can these verses help us when we feel alone or overwhelmed?
Read the story of Elisha and the young servant in 2 Kings 6:8–23.
Get a thin stick that could be easily broken.
Challenge someone to break it.
Put 10 or more sticks together. Challenge the same person to break the group of sticks without separating any.
Why was the challenge more difficult the second time?
Read 2 Kings 6:16-17: “Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.”
Whom did Elisha and the young servant see protecting them?
Read the following: “Like that servant of Elisha, there are more with you than those you can see opposed to you. Some who are with you will be invisible to your mortal eyes” (Henry B. Eyring, “O Ye That Embark,” Liahona, Nov. 2008, 58).
Discussion: Read Doctrine and Covenants 84:88. At times when we might feel alone, how can we trust that we are not? How is the Lord protecting and helping us today? (For ideas, see Ronald A. Rasband, “Be Not Troubled,” Liahona, Nov. 2018, 18–21.)
Invite the children to pretend to cry while you read from Psalm 30:5, “Weeping may endure for a night.” Then ask them to be joyful as you read, “But joy cometh in the morning.” Repeat this phrase a few times, and testify to the children that because of Jesus Christ, the sadness we feel in this life can be replaced with joy.
Show a picture of the Savior, and tell the children about some of the things He has done for you that bring you joy. Give each child a turn to hold the picture and share what Jesus has done that brings them joy.
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.
Assign the children to draw pictures of different parts of the story in 1 Samuel 17:20–54. Display the pictures in order on the board, and invite the children to share the story by talking about each of the pictures they drew. What does the Lord want us to learn from this story?
Help the children make a list on the board of some difficult challenges a person might face. Invite them to find things David said that can encourage someone who faces challenges like these (see 1 Samuel 17:26, 32, 34–37, 45–47). Tell the children how Jesus Christ has helped you during challenges.
Story: When David was young, he faced a giant soldier named Goliath to protect his people. David knew the Lord would help him defeat Goliath. You can read the story in 1 Samuel 17.
Song: “I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162)
Activity: Make a square on the ground with chalk or tape. Write the name “Goliath” inside. Stand back and toss pebbles into the square. Every time your pebble lands in the square, name a way Heavenly Father helps you overcome big challenges.
Friend May 2019 “Bright Idea” Poster or handout that says “I can conquer giant problems” next to a giant like David slew.
Lesson 28: David and Goliath,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 120–24 To encourage each child to seek Heavenly Father’s help in overcoming obstacles.
Show the children a string or rope that you have cut to the length of 9 feet 9 inches (3 meters). You may want to attach it to the wall or ceiling or have children hold the two ends and pull it out to its full length so they can see how tall Goliath was. To help them visualize how much Goliath’s armor weighed, invite the children to volunteer their weights and see what combined weight would be close to the 150 pounds (67.5 kilos) that his armor is estimated to have weighed. Let the children describe how they would feel if they had to fight such an opponent.
Show a stone or a piece of paper that you have colored to look like a stone. Ask the children to put their chairs in a circle while you stand in the middle. Give the stone to one of the class members and have the children pass the stone around the circle while you hum a song such as “Dare to Do Right” (Children’s Songbook, p. 158). When you stop humming have the children stop passing the stone. Explain that you are Goliath and will tell them of a challenge. The child who ended up with the stone must respond with a positive solution to the challenge. You could use the following challenges or come up with ones of your own:
You have a younger brother who seems to get all the attention. It makes you so angry that you feel like hitting him.
Your best friends are starting to swear and they make fun of you because you do not swear. You want to be accepted by them, but you know it is wrong to swear.
You have a very difficult time doing well in school.
Ask the children to choose “Goliaths,” or challenges, in their lives they would like to overcome and write them on the giant. Then have them think of ways to overcome their challenges, write them on pieces of paper, and cut these papers to look like stones. Explain that all challenges can’t be overcome, but if we ask Heavenly Father for his help, he will give us strength to cope with them. Encourage each child to choose a challenge that he or she can work on and to include faith and prayer as part of the solution.
Give the children a piece of paper, and ask them to write a trial or challenge children face today, such as immodest clothing, inappropriate media, and so on. (Younger children can draw pictures.) As the children share the trial, have them wrap the paper around a small rock and place it in the backpack. Pass the backpack to some of the children. Discuss ways Heavenly Father helps them with their trials. With each suggestion, remove several rocks. Pass the backpack again. Sing a song or hymn about the Savior. Explain that Jesus will always help us and comfort us.
Friend August 2018 “David Trusted God” Story and goal card. (Young David trusted God and did hard things, and I can too!)
“David and Goliath” (June 1990 Friend) A simple retelling of the story of David and Goliath, along with a page of illustrated questions.
“David and Goliath” (July 2002 Friend) Use this cutout scene to tell the story of David slaying Goliath.
“God’s Power Within You” (January 2002 Friend) President Gordon B. Hinckley tells the story of David and Goliath and teaches that we can overcome the Goliaths in our lives.(includes images of the story)
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 37–41” Many bad things happened to Joseph, but he chose to keep the commandments and the Lord was with him. Young children can learn from this that God wants to help them during hard times in their lives. (Older Children: Even though Joseph had many difficult trials, he remained faithful and “the Lord was with him” (Genesis 39:3).Joseph’s experiences can help the children feel confident that God will help them during trials.)
Describe some of the difficult things that happened to Joseph (see Genesis 37:23–28; 39:20; or “Joseph’s Inspired Dreams” and “Joseph in Egypt,” in Old Testament Stories). After you tell the children about each difficulty Joseph faced, invite them to repeat, “The Lord was with Joseph” (Genesis 39:2).
Share pictures of the Savior helping people who were facing challenges (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 40–43). Invite the children to share how the Savior was helping the people. Share your testimony that the Lord can help us when bad things happen to us.
Ask the children to find words or phrases in Genesis 39:1–3, 20–23; 41:38 that show that God was with Joseph during his hard times. If possible, invite the children to make a small sign displaying one of the phrases they found. Encourage them to take their signs home to remind them that the Lord will be with them during their trials.
Invite the children to share what they think the phrase “the Lord was with Joseph” means (Genesis 39:2). Invite them to share experiences when they felt that the Lord was with them or their families during a hard time. Share similar experiences from your life.
Friend April 2018 “Trouble in Adventure Forest” When Owen’s feet get burned he learns that Heavenly Father doesn’t always stop bad things from happening, but He helps us get through them.
Sing a song about the Savior’s loving care for us, such as “Jesus Is Our Loving Friend” (Children’s Songbook, 58). Share an experience when you have felt God’s love during a challenging time. Show a picture of Jesus, and invite the children to share how they feel about Him.
1. Do you ever feel alone, Like a hill you have to climb Is too steep for you?
Have you ever felt so sad, Like a worry down inside Is too deep for you?
Then a quiet voice inside your heart reminds you:
Chorus: He is there, stronger than any trouble. God is there, hearing your whispered prayer,
Reaching out to make you strong, Letting you know that you belong.
You’re not alone, for He is always there.
2. Do you ever stop to think What your Heavenly Father sees When He looks at you?
He smiles brighter than the sun When He sees His precious one; There’s just one like you!
So take comfort when that quiet voice reminds you:
Chorus 2: He is there, greater than any challenge. God is there, watching you as you grow,
Sending comfort in the night, Helping you know and choose what’s right.
You’re not alone, for He is always there. So keep trying, keep growing;
Keep praying, keep knowing:God loves you so, and He is always there.
Friend March 2022 “Finding Peace” Molly was sad and lonely when all her siblings went to college or on missions. She and her parents prayed that she might feel better. The next day she remembered how she always felt peaceful when she talked about the gospel with her sister. Then she got the idea to read a conference talk with her mom every morning before school. She liked spending time with her mom and it felt good to read the talk. Her prayer had been answered.
Friend June 2020 ” The Only Bald Deacon” Carlos was losing his hair due to cancer, so he shaved the patchy hair off. He was anxious about people staring at him when he passed the sacrament. He and his family said a prayer together before going in to church, and he felt peaceful and ready. When he got into the chapel he found all the other deacons with shaved their heads too.
Friend August 2019 “A Stripling Warrior Family” After Benjamin’s father died in an accident, Benjamin’s family decide to be brave like the Stripling Warriors. Being brave doesn’t mean never being sad or afraid. It means having faith that Heavenly Father will help us get through tough times. When hard things come our way, we can choose to trust in Him. (Also includes an activity. Find the letters in the picture and fill in the blanks for a secret message (I Can Be Brave).
Friend September 2019 “The Diabetes Dilemma” Joe prayed that his sister didn’t have diabetes. When they found out she did have diabetes, he was devastated. He didn’t understand why Heavenly Father didn’t answer his prayer. His mom explained that answers to prayers don’t always happen the way we want. Sometimes, instead of taking something hard away, He answers by giving us peace and helping us be strong. Joe then realizes that Heavenly Father was blessing his sister and family with peace.
Friend September 2020 “For Older Kids” “Once I had a good friend. We had been friends for years. But she just stopped being my friend when a new girl moved in. It made me sad, so I said a prayer. I thought of the words from a song: “Courage, for the Lord is on our side” (Hymns, no. 243). I’m happy that Heavenly Father is with me and can help me through this trial.” Scarlett W.
Friend May 2020 “Show and Tell” “Elder Stevenson told about a woman who had cancer. Someone asked how she could still have faith. She said having faith is what gets her through all the hard things. My little brother had cancer too. We were really scared, but we still had faith, and he did get better. I know that faith can help us through hard things.”
When the elders of the Church first saw the site of the city of Zion—Independence, Missouri—it was not what they expected. Some thought they would find a thriving, industrious community with a strong group of Saints. Instead they found a sparsely populated outpost, lacking the civilization they were used to and inhabited by rough frontier settlers rather than Saints. It turned out that the Lord wasn’t asking them just to come to Zion—He wanted them to build it.
When our expectations do not match reality, we can remember what the Lord told the Saints in 1831: “Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God … and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation” (Doctrine and Covenants 58:3). Yes, life is full of tribulation, even wickedness, but we can “bring to pass much righteousness; for the power is in [us]” (verses 27–28).
Doctrine and Covenants 58:1–5; 59:23. What messages in these verses strengthen your ability to bear tribulation more patiently? What blessings have you received after tribulation? Why do you think some blessings come only after tribulation?
When the Saints were facing persecution, the Lord comforted them by saying, “Be still and know that I am God.” Consider how this counsel might help the children you teach.
Invite the children to wiggle in their chairs. Then ask them to stop moving when you hold up a picture of the Savior and say the phrase “Be still and know that I am God” (Doctrine and Covenants 101:16). Repeat this activity a few times. Explain that when life was hard for the Saints in Joseph Smith’s time, Jesus wanted them to be still and trust Him instead of worrying. How can Jesus help us when we are having a hard time?
Sing together a song about reverence, such as “Reverently, Quietly” or “To Think about Jesus” (Children’s Songbook,26, 71). Help the children recognize the peaceful feelings that come when we are being still and thinking about Jesus—for example, when we are praying or taking the sacrament.
Help the children work on this week’s activity page. While they color, tell them how thinking of Jesus Christ has helped you feel peace, even during difficult times.
Friend September 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Help your little ones say, “Jesus Christ can help me feel peace.” Talk about different ways people can feel peaceful. Some ideas could be praying, reading scripture stories, listening to good music, or resting quietly.
Ask two children to hold the ends of a string that is long enough to stretch across the room. Ask another child to pinch a point on the string. Read Doctrine and Covenants 121:7–8, and explain that the string represents the years of eternity and that the small point being pinched is like our years on earth. What does it mean that our trials on earth are for “a small moment”?
Help the children imagine what it would be like to spend four months in a place like Liberty Jail. What would we miss most? How would we spend our time? What did Joseph Smith learn in Doctrine and Covenants 121:7–9; 122:7–9 that helped him endure this experience? Encourage the children to write a letter to someone who is having a difficult time, and suggest they use something from Doctrine and Covenants 121:7–9; 122:7–9 in their letter.
The bottom level of the county jail in Liberty, Missouri, was known as the dungeon. The walls were thick, the stone floor was cold and filthy, the food—what there was of it—was rotten, and the only light came from two narrow, iron-barred windows near the ceiling. This dungeon is where Joseph Smith and a few of his brethren spent most of their imprisonment—four frigid months during the winter of 1838–39—awaiting trial for charges of treason against the state of Missouri. During this time, Joseph was constantly receiving news about the suffering of the Saints. The peace and optimism of Far West had lasted only a few months, and now the Saints were homeless once again, driven into the wilderness in search of yet another place to start over—this time with their Prophet in prison.
No wonder Joseph Smith cried out, “O God, where art thou?” The answers he received, the “knowledge from heaven” that came “pouring down” in that miserable jail, demonstrate that although it may not always feel like it, God is never far away. No power can “stay the heavens,” the Prophet learned. “God shall be with [His faithful Saints] forever and ever.” (Doctrine and Covenants 121:1, 33; 122:9.)
When we or those we love are in the midst of suffering, it is normal to wonder if God is aware of us. As you read Doctrine and Covenants 121:1–6, think about times when you have had questions or feelings similar to Joseph Smith’s. What do you find in the Lord’s response that might help you when you have those questions or feelings? For example, in verses 7–10, 26–33, notice the blessings He promises to those who “endure [affliction] well.” As you read section 122, consider how the Lord wants you to view your adversities.
Friend March 2022 “Overcoming Your Challenges”President Dallin H. Oaks discusses the challenges he faced growing up, such as having his father die when he was seven, or being bullied and made fun of by other kids because he couldn’t spell or do math very well. Heavenly Father and Dallin’s family helped him and things got better. President Oaks wants the children to know that Heavenly Father will help them and to not give up. (Coloring page “I Can Overcome Challenges”)
Get a Blessing
Friend June 2019 “A New Chapter” Sarah’s dad died in an accident and she and her mom had to move to a new place. Sarah is sad a lot and she is also worried about not knowing anyone in church or school. She would like a blessing, but her dad isn’t there to give her one. Her mom suggests her uncle give the blessing. After the blessing, Sarah quickly makes friends at church and school.
Look for the Good/ Count Your Blessings
Friend November 2019 “Matt and Mandy” Matt broke his arm and had to have surgery. He keeps his sense of humor through the whole ordeal. At Thanksgiving he shares all the things he is grateful for in regards to what happened to his arm; he’s grateful for doctors, priesthood blessings, learning to do hard things, that his injury wasn’t worse, etc.
Friend March 2021 “The Best Pen Pal Ever” Jane’s mother had been in prison for a year and still had three more years to serve. Because of the long drive to go see her, Jane’s mother suggested they become pen pals. But Jane was too sad to write because she just wanted her mother home. Her father suggested that she think of things she was grateful for. After saying a prayer she was able to think of lots things she was grateful for to write her mom about.
Friend November 2017 Sometimes the moon lines up just right with the sun and almost completely blocks its light, even though the moon is much smaller. This is called a total solar eclipse. Just like the eclipse, when we focus on our daily problems (like the small moon) instead of our eternal gospel blessings (like the large sun), it makes it harder for us to see and feel the light of Jesus Christ in our lives.
Friend August 2016 “My Miracle” A boy is diagnosed with diabetes. He is grateful for the diagnosis because he can now get treatment and feel better.
Friend March 1988 “Mike to the Rescue” Mike can’t do all the things his older siblings can do, but he finds lots of benefits to being little.
Friend June 2019 “Waiting for Ian” Ian was in an accident and was in the hospital and then in recovery for several months. The Primary kids asked if they could postpone the Primary Program until Ian was better because they knew that Ian loved participating in it.
Serve Others: We Worry Less About Our Problems when We Serve Others
Even though Joseph Smith was in jail and the Saints had been driven from their homes, he encouraged the Saints to “cheerfully do all things that lie in our power.”
Read to the children Doctrine and Covenants 123:17, and invite them to stand and cheer when they hear the word “cheerfully.” Invite them to pretend to do different acts of service in a cheerful way.
Sing together a song about cheerful service such as “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198). Help the children think of ways they can cheerfully serve their family and friends.
Friend November 2020 “120 Happy People” A family does a service project every year on the birthday of their baby who died because serving helps them feel thankful for what they have, and when they feel thankful, then happiness replaces the sad feelings. For this years project they decide to send thank you notes to people every day and help 120 people feel happy.
Friend August 2018 “The Lemonade Stand” After terrorist attacks, a girl and her friends are afraid. The girl also wants to help the victims but doesn’t know how. The neighborhood decides to host a lemonade stand to help raise money for the firefighters and their families. After helping with the lemonade stand, she feels better. Her mom tell she her that when she is being like Jesus, the Holy Ghost can help her feel happy and safe.
Friend February 2024 “Tommy’s Very Bad Day” Everything had gone wrong during Tommy’s day and he wanted to just sit so nothing else bad would happen, but that just made him feel worse. Then he saw his neighbor raking leaves and having a hard time putting them in the bag. Tommy decided to help, and pretty soon he was having so much fun he forgot about his bad day.
Friend June 2021 “Ombeni’s New Home” Ombeni’s family were refugees in the U.S. School was hard because he didn’t know the language and didn’t have any friends. His mother suggested he try to find someone to serve. He found a girl sitting alone at lunch and sat by her and smiled. She smiled back. It made him feel happy that he could help someone.
Friend October 2020 “Lonely Lunchtime” Kali was lonely at school because she didn’t have any friends yet. Her mom sometimes said, “Look for the kids who are lonely.” She saw a boy sitting alone and went over and talked to him. Afterwards, she felt happy knowing she had made someone else’s recess a little better.
Friend December 2018 “The Secret Santa” After Tasha’s grandma and father died, Christmas was difficult and sad. But then a Secret Santa started dropping off gifts. She wanted to thank them and pass on the kindness, so she started doing kind things for others. She learned that helping others made her feel happy.
Service Helps Us Forget Our Problems
Friend December 2022 “Cookies, Hugs, and Love” Because of a hurricane and Covid, Eva’s family Christmas traditions of celebrating with family, friends, and neighbors was not possible. Eva was sad. Their family decided to buy food for people who lost their homes in the hurricane and Eva wanted to make cookies for the children in the shelter. Serving others helped her feel better.
Friend July 2022 “New School, New Friend” Ada was scared to go to her new school in Taiwan because she didn’t speak the language. How would talk with anyone? In class she saw a girl crying. Ada sat next to her and put her arm around her. The girl stopped crying and hugged her back. The rest of the day they played together and sat with each other. Following Jesus had helped her not be afraid.
Christmas Day is usually a time to ponder messages like “peace on earth” and “good will toward men” (see Luke 2:14). But on December 25, 1832, Joseph Smith’s mind was occupied with the threat of war. South Carolina had just defied the United States government and was preparing for battle. And the Lord revealed to Joseph that this was only the beginning: “War,” He declared, “will be poured out upon all nations” (Doctrine and Covenants 87:2). It seemed like this prophecy would be fulfilled very soon.
But then it wasn’t. Within just a few weeks, South Carolina and the U.S. government reached a compromise, and war was averted. But revelation is not always fulfilled at the time or in the way we expect. Nearly 30 years later, long after Joseph Smith was martyred and the Saints had moved west, South Carolina did rebel and civil war followed. Since then, war throughout the world has caused “the earth [to] mourn” (Doctrine and Covenants 87:6). While the prophecy was ultimately fulfilled, the value of this revelation is less in predicting when calamity will come and more in teaching what to do when it does. The counsel is the same in 1831, 1861, and 2021: “Stand ye in holy places, and be not moved” (verse 8).
The children you teach will face spiritual and physical dangers throughout their lives. You can help them prepare to face those dangers by teaching them to find and stand in holy places.
Read together Doctrine and Covenants 87:6 to learn about things the Lord said would happen in the latter days. Ask the children to talk about challenges that children their age sometimes face. Invite them to find in verse 8 what the Lord said we should do during hard times. Tell the children about holy places in your life.
Help the children make a list of holy places, holy thoughts, and holy actions that can help them face spiritual danger (for ideas, see the videos “Standing in Holy Places” and “Stand Ye in Holy Places—Bloom Where You’re Planted,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite them to keep their list with them to refer to when needed.
Place pictures of a home, a church building, and a temple in different places throughout the room. Give clues describing these places, and invite the children to stand near the picture you are describing. Read the first line from Doctrine and Covenants 45:32. Testify that we are blessed when we spend time in holy places like our homes, our church buildings, and the temple. Ask the children to talk about how they feel when they are in holy places like these.
Invite the children to complete this week’s activity page. Help them write “I can help my home become a holy place” and “Doctrine and Covenants 45:32” on their drawing. What can they do to help their home become a holy place?
Listen to Uplifting Music
Friend April 2019 “ A Comforting Song “ Mia is feeling sad, so she sings a Primary song, and she feels the comforting influence of the Holy Ghost.
Friend November 2020 “Like a Star” Carrie’s family lost their house and had to live at campgrounds. It was hard on Carrie and she prayed for a home. A Primary song reminded her that Heavenly Father loves her.
Friend March 2020 “Music for a Better Day” Elizabeth had a terrible day at school. Her dad suggested that good music might help her feel better, and to think about what she was playing while she practiced her piano. The song she was playing was about giving thanks to God. She began to feel more peaceful as she thought about all her blessings. Good music did help her feel better.
Read the Scriptures
Friend March 2020 “Eddy and the Book of Mormon” Some kids laugh at Eddy when he reads at school because he has a hard time with some words. It made him nervous and not want to read out loud. But as his family read the Book of Mormon each day (first they figured out a way to remember to read each day), Eddy learns about Nephi and how his brothers made fun of him for building a boat. That didn’t stop Nephi. He trusted God, and God helped him do hard things. Next time some kids laughed at him while Eddy read in class, he thought of Nephi, and that helped him not to worry about what the kids would say.
Friend September 2024 “Scripture Reading Chain” The scriptures can help us feel comfort and love from our Heavenly Father. You can make a chain of scriptures to read when you feel worried or sad.
Friend September 2024 “The Worry Box” Olivia felt worried a lot. Sometimes she felt so worried that it was hard to sleep or have fun with her friends. On Olivia’s first day of therapy. Her mom explained that Heavenly Father gives us doctors to help us. The doctor gave her a worry box to try. It was a place she could put all her written worries in. Then she could pick a time to open the box every day for worry time. That way she wouldn’t have to think about the worries until that time. Olivia felt peaceful. She was grateful Heavenly Father had given her lots of things to help her feel better.
Friend October 2021 “Prayers for Tessa” Tessa felt so angry and sad sometimes and she had a hard time keeping it in, and as a result nobody wanted to play with her. The principal said Tessa had trouble getting along with other kids, and she called Tessa’s mom when Tessa had anger issues at school. Her family was praying for her. Her grandmother told her she even put Tessa’s name on the temple prayer roll. The next time Tessa felt upset at school, she remembered all of the people who were praying for her. That helped her feel a little better.
Stay Positive
Friend August 2019 “Bright Idea” I Can Do Hard Thing. Clipart picture of climbing a mountain.
Friend May 2019 “Bright Idea” Poster or handout that says “I can conquer giant problems” next to a giant like David slew.
Friend September 2018 “My Talents” Action rhyme of things little ones find that they can do.
Friend March 2017 “I Want to Play the Flute” Jacob wants to play the flute in the school band, but everyone tries to get him to do something else. He prays about what to do.
Friend March 1985 “First Pick” – A boy’s brother isn’t good at baseball but he is good at baseball strategy and managing.
Friend January 2016 “Behind the Scenes” Tessa wishes she could sing and dance so she could get a part in the play, but she discovers she has other wonderful talents.
Developing Talents
Friend August 2022 “Ready to Ride” Quade doesn’t know how to ride a bike, but he wants to learn so he can ride with his friends. The only problem is that the wobbly bike is very scary. He says a prayer asking for help. After several more attempts, he is riding without help. He keeps practicing and soon he is able to ride with his friends.
Friend June 2020 “My Cooking Goal” Fernanda wanted to get better at cooking so she set a goal in her Children’s Guidebook to cook with her dad. Now she loves cooking. She knows Heavenly Father helped her with her goal because He wants her to grow her talents. (photos included in this true story)
Friend March 2018 “The Write Choice” Justina had a hard time with reading and writing in school, but her teacher told her, “You can’t always choose what you’re good at. But you can always choose how hard you try.” Justina started putting more effort into trying, and reading and writing became easier and easier. Eventually she became good enough to become a writer.
Friend May 2023 “Cameron the Piano Player” Cameron volunteered to play a couple of songs in the Primary Program even though he didn’t know how to play. He took lessons and practiced really hard and did great at the program and wanted to learn more songs.
Friend September 2017 “A Painting of Christ” Tesla makes a goal to make a painting of Christ for developing talents in her Faith in God booklet. She also decides to give it to her Catholic friend for her first communion.
Friend January 2020 “A Little Better Every Day” When Sister Joy D. Jones (Primary general president) was young she played the violin. She wanted it to sound pretty, but it squeaked. If she practiced, it sounded better. She made goals to practice a little each day. She encourages children to set goals to learn a little more each day. She says, “Don’t give up. Jesus will help you.”
Friend July 2020 “Prayers and Planes” Vern prayed every night for a model plane, but it never arrived. He decided to build one himself from an old wood box he found. He realized later that his prayer had been answered, just not the way he expected. Heavenly Father helped him figure out how to build his own. When he grew up, he fixed and flew planes for a living.
Friend September 2020 “Scarf Wars” Chakell was usually good at doing most things, but she struggled with the scarf making project at school. She thought that asking for help meant that she wasn’t smart. Her mom reminded her that everyone needs help in life. After asking and getting help from her teacher, her teacher taught her that she might not be good at making scarfs yet, but learning new things takes practice.
Sharing Talents
Friend June 2018 “A Baptism Song” Elizabeth and her sister sang at a baptism which helped those attending to feel the Spirit.
Friend April 2023 “Reaching for Mars” Michelle went to college to be an engineer. After college she got a job helping launch rockets to explore space! She helped create a robot called a rover to send to Mars. But then she and her husband were called to serve a mission leaders. She would have to leave her job and miss the launch of the Mars rover! But she knew serving the Lord was more important, so they accepted the calling. She bore her testimony that Jesus Christ created worlds without end, and he wants us to learn, grow, and use our talents for good.
Friend February 2022 “Sarah’s Solo” Sarah forgot the words in the middle of her solo, but she started again and did it right this time. Her teacher told her she should be proud that she carried on.
Using Talents to Help Others
Friend October 2018 “The Talents Team” Short story about Kennedy who won a tv cooking competition and used her talent to teach others and host a fundraiser. Photos included.
Friend October 2018 “Show and Tell” “Before I started kindergarten, I made a goal to learn how to tie my shoes. I practiced every day. Whenever I notice a classmate with untied laces, I offer to help them. I am thankful that I can use my talents to help my friends, like Jesus did. Creighton D., age 5, Indiana, USA”
Friend September 2015 “When I Grow Up…” Artist, Rose Datoc Dall, uses her art talent to share her testimony and inspire others. November 2015– Man uses science talents to help others
Friend June 2023 “Serving with Art” From a young age, Sister Kristin M. Yee wanted to become an artist. She practiced a lot by volunteering for things. She drew posters for community events. She painted store windows. One time she helped paint sets at an opera house. These experiences taught her that art was a way that she could serve. When she grew up, she became an animation artist for Disney.
Make your own animation by following the directions below.
Friend March 2016 “A True pearl” Jetta must go away from home to learn the piano, but when she returns she uses her talent to serve.
Afraid to Share Talents
Friend May 2016 “The Great Fiddling Duo” Lisa is afraid she will mess up in the talent show, so she finds a way to help herself not feel so nervous.
Developing Talents Takes Sacrifice, Practice, and Time
Friend January 2017 “Matt and Mandy” Mandy’s friend wants to be an architect when she grows up, but she isn’t good at math. Her dad told her to keep practicing and eventually she will get good at it.
Friend July 2015– Parable of the Talents – includes lesson ideas
Friend February 2016 “Savannah the Engineer” Savannah needs to decide whether to sacrifice her time and join an after school science team.
Friend April 1986 “Jill the Jump Rope Genius” Jill can’t jump rope, but she practices and is able to jump in her school field day contest.
Friend January 2016 “Matt & Mandy” Matt learns that things that are hard to do can easier and fun with practice.
Hidden Talents
Friend March 1988 “Invisible Trophy” Susan has talents for loving others and for doing things without being told.
Our Talents are Unique and Special
Friend May 2022 “The Job Test” When Jeffery got the results of his job test, he was shocked that his top result was florist. His friend laughed and said Jeffery liked weird stuff. He did like art and playing the piano, which was different than the other boys. His eyes filled with tears when he told his dad. His dad explained that Heavenly Father gave us our talents, and we are supposed to be different so we can all do different things in life, and that doesn’t make us weird. But we also get to choose what we do with our talents.
