Tag Archives: Moses

May 18 2022

Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34

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Moses’ Farewell

DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 6

Moses proclaims, The Lord our God is one Lord, and, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God—The children of Israel are commanded to teach their children—Moses exhorts them to keep the commandments, testimonies, and statutes of the Lord that they may prosper.

Moses had spent his life preparing the children of Israel to enter that promised land, and the book of Deuteronomy records his final instructions, reminders, exhortations, and pleadings with the Israelites.(Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022)

I can love God with all my heart.

Deuteronomy 6:5

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34”

To help your children understand Deuteronomy 6:5, you could draw a heart, an outline of a body, and a strong arm. Your children could point to the pictures as you read the words “heart,” “soul,” and “might” in the verse. How do we show the Lord that we love Him with all our heart, soul, and might?

Friend May 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun”

Friend May 2026 “I Can Love God with All My Heart”

    Ensign September “What Does it Mean to Love God with All Your Heart?” As we love someone else with all our hearts, we make them a priority in our lives. We give them our time, energy, talent, and resources.

    Jesus Christ taught: “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15)

    I can keep the word of God in my heart.

    Deuteronomy 6:6–15

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34”

    • Read with your children the Lord’s counsel to the Israelites to put scripture passages where they would see them every day (see Deuteronomy 6:6–9). This might inspire you and your children to think of ways to make sure you don’t “forget the Lord” (verse 12) and to remember what He has done for you.
    • On the board, write words and phrases from Deuteronomy 6:6–9 that indicate when and how the Israelites were to remember the word of God (such as sittest, walkest, liest down, hand, and house). Invite the children to find these words in the verses. What do these words teach about how to make the scriptures part of our everyday lives? Ask the children what they can do to remember the word of God in their daily life.

    Friend July 2020 “Eva’s Scripture Pictures” Eva loves to draw pictures of scripture stories and she puts them on the fridge to help her and her family to remember them.

    • Give each child a piece of paper, and invite them to write down a phrase from Deuteronomy 6 that is meaningful to them. Ask them to share why they chose their phrase. Suggest that they decorate their paper and display it in their home to remember it. Encourage the children to write down and display other phrases they find in the scriptures.

    Friend November 2019 “For Older Kids” Jordan’s Primary teacher told the class that she posts scripture verses on her door so she can always see them and read them every day. Jordan started doing that too, and soon her door was covered in scriptures.

    • You might point out that Deuteronomy 6:13, 16 and 8:3 helped the Savior during an important moment in His life. To see how, read together Matthew 4:1–10. Then you could share with each other some scripture passages that have helped you in times of need.

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTERS 7-8

    Chosen to be a special people

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 7 Israel is to destroy the seven nations of Canaan—Marriages with them are forbidden lest apostasy result—Israel has a mission as a holy and chosen people—The Lord shows mercy unto those who love Him and keep His commandments—He promises to remove sickness from the children of Israel if they obey.

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 8 The Lord tested the children of Israel in the wilderness for forty years—Eating manna taught them that man lives by the word of God—Their clothing did not wear out—The Lord chastened them—If they serve other gods, they will perish.

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 15

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 15 Every seven years, all debts are to be released—The people are admonished to care for the poor—Hebrew servants are to be released and given gifts during the seventh year—The firstling males of herds and flocks are the Lord’s.

    I can joyfully serve those in need.

    Deuteronomy 15:7–11

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Deuteronomy 6–8; 15; 18; 29–30; 34”

    The teachings in Deuteronomy 15:7–11 can help the children you teach understand that helping others involves more than just actions. It should be done with a willing heart.

    • Write who, why, and how on the board. Invite the children to read Deuteronomy 15:7–11 to find out who we should help, why we should help them, and how our hearts should feel about helping. Let them write on the board what they find. Sing a song that reinforces the message in these verses, such as “Have I Done Any Good?” (Hymns, no. 223).

    Friend January 2021 “You Can Help Like Jesus” When Jesus was on the earth, he helped all he saw. Today many people in the world need our help. Each of us can do something to help, even children. About years ago, children helped build the Primary Children’s hospital by collecting pennies. (See more at link)

    Friend November 2019 “Helping Our Brothers and Sisters”

    President Nelson told about some ways people need help in the world today, such as 1 out of 9 people don’t have enough food and many don’t have clean water to drink. The article discusses how the church helps and how we can help people in need. (The article includes photos of the ways people need help, a quote handout idea, and a coloring page.)

    food bank
    Refugees
    • Ask the children to think of someone they could help—especially in their own family. Provide time for them to write down what they will do this week to help that person. If possible, make plans to reach out as a class to someone in need.

    Friend January 2018

    Friend May 2020 “Doing What Jesus Would Do” Care Package Ideas

    See additional ideas at Service

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 18

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 18 How priests are supported—Divination, spiritualism, and the like are abominations—A Prophet (Christ) will arise like unto Moses.

    Prophets teach us about Jesus Christ.

    Deuteronomy 18:15–18

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022

    Moses prophesied that Jesus Christ would come and that we should listen to the words Jesus would teach.

    • As you read Deuteronomy 18:18 together, help your children understand that the Prophet like Moses in this verse is Jesus Christ.

    Institute Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Deuteronomy 17–33”

    At least four other scriptures refer to the prophet like unto Moses (see Acts 3:22–23; 1 Nephi 22:21; 3 Nephi 20:23; JS—H 1:40). In each instance these scriptures make it clear that the prophet like unto Moses was the Savior, Jesus Christ. When Jesus visited the Nephites, as recorded in the Book of Mormon, He identified Himself in this way:

    “Behold, I am he of whom Moses spake, saying: A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass that every soul who will not hear that prophet shall be cut off from among the people.” (3 Nephi 20:23.)

    • Maybe you could look at pictures of things Moses did and things Jesus Christ did, and let your children match them (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 15, 16, 38, 39).

    The Red Crystal

    • Show the children a picture of our prophet today, and share something he has taught about the Savior.

    Coming Closer to Christ: President Oaks emphasized increasing humility, studying the scriptures, and serving others as key ways to strengthen personal faith and hear the Savior’s voice.

    The Saving Atonement: He teaches that Jesus has done everything essential for our mortal journey out of love, offering forgiveness and overcoming the challenges of mortality.

    Following His Teachings: He has urged members to embrace the Savior’s command to love one’s enemies, particularly in times of conflict, and to become peacemakers.

    Friend May 2003 Prophets taught about Jesus Christ

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTERS 29-30

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 29 The children of Israel make a covenant with the Lord under which they will be blessed if they are obedient, and cursed if they are disobedient—If they are disobedient, their land will be as brimstone and salt.

    Deuteronomy CHAPTER 30 The scattered Israelites will be gathered from all nations when they remember the covenant—Moses places life or death, blessing or cursing, before the people.

    Because of my covenants, I am part of God’s people.

    Deuteronomy 29:12–13; 30:8–10

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022

    Talking about Deuteronomy 29:12–13 provides an opportunity for you and your children to talk about covenants Ask the children what a covenant is (if they need help, suggest that they find a definition in “Covenant” in the Guide to the Scriptures [scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org]).

    Draw a two-column chart on the board with these headings: Israelites’ promises and God’s promises. Invite the children to search Deuteronomy 30:8–10 and fill in the chart. (If necessary, help the children understand the meanings of phrases in verse 9.) Testify of blessings that have come to you from keeping your covenants.

    What promises have we made with God? (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:37, 77).
    Invite the children to list on the board the promises we make at baptism and the promises Heavenly Father makes to us. How do these promises connect us with Him? (By keeping our covenants, we can receive heavenly help and strength.)

    Friend March 2023 “Baptismal Covenants”

    Consider singing together a song about covenants, such as “Standing on the Promises” (Gospel Library).

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

    DEUTERONOMY CHAPTER 34

    Deuteronomy Chapter 34 Moses sees the promised land and is taken by the Lord—Joshua leads Israel—Moses was Israel’s greatest prophet.

    What happened to Moses?

    Deuteronomy 34:5–8

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 Even though Deuteronomy 34:5–8 says that Moses died, latter-day understanding clarifies that he was translated, or changed so that he would not suffer pain or death until being resurrected (see Alma 45:18–19; Bible Dictionary, “Moses”; Guide to the Scriptures, “Translated Beings,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). It was necessary for Moses to be translated because he needed to have a physical body in order to give priesthood keys to Peter, James, and John on the Mount of Transfiguration (see Matthew 17:1–13).

    Additional Resources

    Gathering Israel

    Friend May 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Gathering Israel Puzzle

    Story: God loves all His children. He wants them to be gathered together in His Church. Part of gathering Israel is bringing God’s children back to Him (see Deuteronomy 30:3).

    Song: “Israel, Israel, God Is Calling” (Hymns, no. 7)

    Activity: Cut out the puzzle pieces on page 27. Then have someone hide the pieces around the room. Have everyone else search for the pieces. Once all the pieces are gathered, put the puzzle together. Why does God want all of His children to return to Him?

    Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Inspiring Words” Lesson ideas

    Latter Day Kids “Love God with All Thine Heart” Lesson ideas

    May 9 2022

    Numbers 11–14; 20–24; 27

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    Table of Contents

    Quail is Provided when Israelites Lust for Meat

    Numbers CHAPTER 11 Fire from the Lord consumes the rebels in Israel—Israel murmurs and lusts for meat instead of manna—Moses complains that he cannot bear the burden alone—He is commanded to choose seventy elders to assist him—The Lord promises meat until it becomes loathsome to the Israelites—The seventy elders are chosen, they prophesy, the Lord comes down, and Eldad and Medad prophesy in the camp—Israel is provided with quail—The people lust, a great plague follows, and many die.

    I can be thankful for what God has given me.

    Numbers 11:4–10

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” Even though the Lord had done wonderful things for the children of Israel, they often focused instead on what they didn’t have. Help the children learn to be thankful for what God has given them.

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Ask your children if they remember some of the miracles the Lord performed to help the Israelites (see “The Plagues of Egypt” and “The Passover” in Old Testament Stories, 67–74). Then you could summarize for them Numbers 11:4–10, emphasizing that the Israelites had forgotten their blessings and were complaining. What blessings do we sometimes forget?

    Friend May 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Gratitude Game

    Story: Sometimes the Israelites forgot how the Lord had helped them. God wants us to remember to be grateful. It makes us happier too!

    Song: “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29)

    Activity: Play a gratitude game! Mark some sticks with one of three colors. Then take turns choosing a stick. For one color, name a person you are thankful for. For another color, say a place you are thankful for. For the third color, say a thing you are thankful for.

    Friend May 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun”

    • Sing together a song about gratitude, such as “Count Your Blessings” (Hymns, no. 241). Invite each child to draw pictures of blessings the Lord has given them or their families. Encourage them to think about or look at their picture whenever they are tempted to complain about something they don’t have.
    This video is not produced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints or any of its members, but it has visuals and words to help you sing the song.

    For additional teaching ideas see Gratitude

    Miriam and Aaron Speak Against Moses

    Numbers CHAPTER 12 Aaron and Miriam complain against Moses, the most meek of all men—The Lord promises to speak to Moses mouth to mouth and to reveal to him the similitude of the Lord—Miriam becomes leprous for a week.

    The Lord wants me to follow His prophet.

    Numbers 12

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • To introduce Numbers 12, you could tell your children that the Lord was unhappy with Aaron and Miriam, Moses’s brother and sister. Invite them to read Numbers 12:1–8 to find out why.
    This video is not produced by the church or any of its members, but it carefully follows the scripture account.
    • Consider using the Gospel Art Book to help your children find examples of people in the scriptures who respected the Lord’s prophet and were blessed. How are we blessed when we follow the Lord’s prophet?

    For additional teaching ideas see Prophets: Lesson Ideas

    Israelite Spies Fear the Strength of Canaan

    Numbers CHAPTER 13 Moses sends twelve spies to search the land of Canaan—Ten of them bring an evil report, telling only of the strength of the inhabitants.

    Numbers CHAPTER 14 Israel murmurs and speaks of returning to Egypt—Joshua and Caleb give a good report of Canaan—Moses mediates between Israel and the Lord—The adults of Israel will not enter the promised land—The Lord slays the false spies by a plague—Some rebels try to go alone and are slain by the Amalekites and Canaanites.

    Faith can help me not be afraid.

    Numbers 13:17–33; 14:6–9

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” When Moses sent 12 men to find out about the promised land, 10 of them came back afraid because of the mighty people who lived there. Two of them, Caleb and Joshua, were not afraid, because they had faith in the Lord.

    • Use pictures or drawings of grapes, honey, giants, and grasshoppers to briefly tell the children about the 12 men Moses sent to explore the promised land (see Numbers 13:17–33). Explain that they found a lot of fruit and other foods (invite the children to pretend to eat the food), but they also were afraid because the people there were large and strong (invite the children to pretend to be afraid). Show a picture of Jesus, and point out that two Israelites, Caleb and Joshua, were not afraid because they had faith in Jesus Christ.
    • Read Numbers 14:9 to the children, and talk about a time when you were afraid but your faith in Jesus Christ helped you have courage. Help the children think of any similar experiences they’ve had.

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24”

    • Two (or more) members of your family could pretend to “spy out” (Numbers 13:17) another part of your home as if it were the promised land. Then they could each give a report based on Numbers 13:27–33 or Numbers 14:6–9. What do we learn about faith from the two different reports in these verses? How can we be more like Caleb and Joshua?

    For additional teaching ideas see Faith: Lesson Ideas

    Moses and the Brass Serpent

    Numbers CHAPTER 20 Miriam dies—Moses smites a rock at Meribah and brings forth water—The king of Edom refuses to let Israel pass peacefully through his land—Aaron dies, and Eleazar becomes the high priest.

    Numbers CHAPTER 21 The children of Israel destroy those Canaanites who fight against them—The Israelites are plagued with fiery serpents—Moses lifts up a serpent of brass to save those who look thereon—Israel defeats the Amorites, destroys the people of Bashan, and occupies their lands.

    I can look to Jesus Christ.

    Numbers 21:6–9

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24”

    Old Testament Stories “Moses and the Brass Serpent” Images and video

    Just as the children of Israel were healed by looking at the serpent of brass, the children in your class receive salvation by looking to the Savior.

    • How is the brass serpent like Jesus Christ? (see John 3:14–15). Your children might enjoy making a serpent out of paper and write on it some simple things they can do to “look upon the Son of God with faith” (Helaman 8:15).

    The brass serpent represented Christ taking upon Himself the “sins” or, in this case, the venomous consequences of rebellion, allowing for healing.The healing was not in the object itself, but in the deliberate action of looking, which was a required show of faith in God’s plan

    Latter Day Kids “Look to Christ and Live” Lesson ideas

    • Using this week’s activity page, tell the children what happened when “fiery serpents” came into the Israelites’ camp (see Numbers 21:6–9). Help them see how the brass serpent is like Jesus Christ (see John 3:14–15). Then let the children take turns using the picture to tell the story to each other.
    • Ask the children to close their eyes while you place a picture of the Savior somewhere in the room. Then invite the children to open their eyes, find the picture, and look at it. Let them take turns being the one to place the picture. Each time the children find the picture, help them think of something they can do to look to the Savior.

    Jesus Christ has the power to heal me spiritually.

    Numbers 21:4–9

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” Many Israelites died because they did not have faith that the Lord would heal them if they looked at the brass serpent (see Alma 33:18–20).

    Media Library
    • Invite the children to draw pictures of what they read in Numbers 21:4–9. Let them use their pictures to tell the story. Ask each child to choose one of the following scriptures and share what it adds to our understanding of the story: John 3:14–15; 1 Nephi 17:41; Alma 33:18–20; Helaman 8:13–15; Doctrine and Covenants 6:36.
    • Write on the board a question like What can we do to “look upon the Son of God with faith”? (Helaman 8:15). Give each of the children a piece of paper, and invite them to write as many answers to the question as they can think of. Collect the papers, read a few answers aloud, and invite the children to talk about how doing these things can help us when we need the Savior’s healing power.

    Ask how each item helps grow or show faith in Jesus Christ as the family walks the path.

    Children’s Songbook
    Friend October 2016
    Friend October 2016
    Friend November 2018
    Friend November 2018
    Friend July 2015
    Friend July 2015

    Balak Asks Balaam to Curse the Israelites

    Numbers CHAPTER 22 Balak offers money, cattle, and great honors to Balaam to curse Israel—The Lord forbids Balaam to do so—An angel opposes Balaam on the way.

    Numbers CHAPTER 23 The Lord commands Balaam to bless Israel—He does so, saying, Who can count the dust of Jacob? and, What hath God wrought!

    Numbers CHAPTER 24 Balaam sees in vision and prophesies of the destiny of Israel—He prophesies of the Messiah: There will come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre will rise out of Israel.

    I can follow God’s will, even if others try to persuade me not to.

    Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures “Look and Live” Lesson ideas

    Numbers 22–24

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Numbers 11–14; 20–24” Balak tried to persuade Balaam to curse the Israelites, but Balaam knew that this was against God’s will. Balaam’s example could help the children when they face pressure to disobey God.

    • Summarize Numbers 22:1–18 for the children, emphasizing how Balaam refused to curse God’s people, even though Balak, the king of Moab, offered him honor and riches. Ask the children to search the following verses for phrases that they feel show Balaam’s determination to follow God: Numbers 22:18; 23:26; 24:13. Invite the children to pick one phrase they like and write it on a card to help them remember to obey the Lord.
    • Talk with the children about situations when friends or others might try to persuade them to do something wrong, as Balak did to Balaam. How did Balaam’s commitment to the Lord help him resist pressure from Balak? Invite the children to practice responding to these situations using words like Balaam’s.
    • “Treehouse” (August 2003 Friend)
      Jordan refuses when his friends try to get him to use a bad word as the password for their club.
    • “The Strength to Choose” (April 2010 Friend) Chris’s friend tries to get him to smoke a cigarette.
    • “Tag, You’re It” (August 2015 Friend and Liahona) Lauren decides to not follow Tami’s plan to be mean to Ally.
    • “Garbage Can Graffiti” (September 2010 Friend) Joe makes a bad decision after he listens to his friend instead of the Holy Ghost.

    Joshua is Set Apart to Lead Isreal

    Numbers Chapter 27 The law of inheritances to sons, daughters, and kinsmen is explained—Moses will see but not enter the promised land—Joshua is called and set apart to lead Israel.

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Numbers 13–36: Wilderness Wanderings, Part 2”

    “‘According to the order of God,’ ordination to offices in the priesthood is performed by the laying on of hands. (Alma 6:1; Acts 6:5–6; 1 Tim. 5:22.) Setting apart to positions of presidency, administration, or special responsibility comes in the same way. (Fifth Article of Faith; Num. 27:18–23; Deut. 34:9.)” (McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 438.)

    Additional Resources

    Primary Old Testament Lesson 22: Israel and the Brass Serpent

    Institute: Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Numbers 1–12” According to Josephus, when Moses was a general of the Egyptian army in the attack against the Ethiopians, he married an Ethiopian woman as a political alliance to end the war (see Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews, bk. 2, chap. 10, par. 1).

    The ostensible reason for Miriam’s and Aaron’s complaining was that the Ethiopians were non-Israelite descendants of Cush. The real reason for the complaint, however, seems to have been jealousy motivated by Moses’ position as spiritual leader and prophet of Israel. Miriam was the instigator of the attack on Moses’ right to preside and was punished with leprosy. Even if Moses’ wish had been granted and every soul in Israel had received the gift of prophecy (see Numbers 11:29), Moses would still have been the one chosen by the Lord to preside. (See additional information at link and #17-24 Why Did Miriam and Aaron Oppose Moses?)

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Numbers 13–36: Wilderness Wanderings, Part 2”

    Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas Snake Bite Game: Each person find a small object to use as their game piece. Roll a die to determine how many spaces to move forward. If someone lands on a “SNAKE BITE!” space, they will automatically be out of the game unless they state something they can do to look to the Savior in their lives. Print up the picture on page 5 below and tape it up on the wall. Have each person write down the ways they’ll look to the Savior on this page.

    The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

    Apr 18 2022

    Exodus 19–20; 24; 31–34

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    Table of Contents

    The Ten Commandments

    Exodus CHAPTER 19 The Lord covenants to make Israel a peculiar treasure, a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation—The people sanctify themselves—The Lord appears on Sinai amid fire, smoke, and earthquakes.

    Exodus CHAPTER 20 The Lord reveals the Ten Commandments—Israel is to bear witness that the Lord has spoken from heaven—The children of Israel are forbidden to make gods of silver or gold—They are to make altars of unhewn stones and sacrifice to the Lord thereon.

    God gives me commandments because He wants me to be happy.

    Exodus 20:3–17

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20”

    • How can you make learning about the Ten Commandments fun for your children? As you read Exodus 20:3–17 together, let your children help you find or draw a picture to represent each of the Ten Commandments. Then your children could take turns choosing a picture and talking about how they can live that commandment. Share with each other how living that commandment brings you happiness.

    Old Testament Coloring Book “The Ten Commandments”

    Lesson 21: The Ten Commandments,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 90–94 Explain that rules are necessary aspects of our lives. Ask the children to name some rules we should follow to be safe, to have good health, to have good relationships with others, or to have eternal life. Point out that rules bring order into our lives and are necessary for us to know how to live happily. Tell the children that in this lesson they will learn about Moses and the children of Israel receiving the Ten Commandments, which are laws given by God to help us know what to do and how to live so we can be happy..

    Notice that all of the Ten Commandments fit under the two great commandments that Jesus Christ gave in Matthew 22:37–40: to love God and to love our neighbors. Write Love God and Love Neighbors on the chalkboard. Let the children take turns reading each commandment from Exodus 20:3–17 or from the chart. Have them write on the chalkboard a few key words from each commandment under the appropriate heading. Discuss specific ways to live these commandments, and challenge the children to choose one specific way to show love for God and to show love for their neighbors this week.

    Liahona April 2022 “Jesus Christ Is Our Savior” Applying the Ten Commandments to Our Lives

    Read the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3–17). God gave these laws to the Israelites to help them grow spiritually and live better lives. The commandments are also found in the Book of Mormon (see Mosiah 13:11–24) and in the Doctrine and Covenants (see 42:18–29; 59). How can the commandments help us today?

    You could also sing a song like “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). Help your children find words in the song that teach them why God wants us to keep His commandments.

    • Sing with the children a song about how Heavenly Father blesses us when we obey the commandments, such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). Invite the children to listen to the words to find out what blessings we can receive when we obey.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20” The children will be more likely to keep the commandments if they see them as expressions of God’s love and as opportunities to express their love for Him.

    • Tell the story about Chloe from Sister Carole M. Stephens’s message “If Ye Love Me, Keep My Commandments” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 118–20). How does the story help us understand why the Lord gives us commandments? How does being obedient show our love for God?
    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20”

    See also Commandments

    Thou Shalt Have No Other Gods Before Me

    It Is Important to Put the Lord First in My Life.

    Exodus 20:1–7

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20” The first two of the Ten Commandments the Lord gave the children of Israel were “Thou shalt have no other gods before me,” and “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.” (Ex. 20:3–4.)

    • Read together Exodus 20:1–7, and explain that anything we put before God in our lives can be like the “others gods” and “graven image[s]” mentioned in verses 3–4. Ask the children why Heavenly Father wants us to put Him first. (One possible answer might be: Because he loves us and wants us to be happy. He knows we will be happiest if we live the kind of life he wants us to live and return and live with him again.)

    Ask the children if they can name some things that we might be tempted to put before God in our lives. (Answers may even be good things such as recreational activities. If something is taking a lot of our focus and time and is getting in the way of putting the Lord first, it might be considered idolatry. (The worship of idols is an excessive attachment or devotion to anything.)

    • Ask the children how we can show Heavenly Father that He is more important than anything else in our lives.

    For the Strength of Youth April 2022 “The Best Day”

    • Think of a task that has an important first step, such as washing our hands before we eat or putting on socks before putting on shoes. What could happen if we didn’t do the important things first? How is this like putting Heavenly Father first in our lives? Share your testimony of how putting God first has blessed you, and invite the children to share their testimonies, too.
    • New Era July 2020 “Making Good Use of Your Time” Object Lesson: Pour all the sand into the jar first, then add the larger rocks on top. When you add the sand first, there isn’t enough space for all the larger rocks—just like how when we prioritize other activities over the things Heavenly Father has commanded us to do, we may run out of time for the things that are most important.
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    • Sing a song about Heavenly Father, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29). What do we learn from the song about why it is important to put Heavenly Father first in our lives?

    The Lord wants me to honor my parents.

    Exodus 20:12

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Help your children learn the phrase “Honour thy father and thy mother” (Exodus 20:12). You may want to explain that to “honor” someone can mean to show respect for them or to bring them happiness. What did Jesus do to honor His mortal mother and His Heavenly Father? (see Luke 2:48–51; John 19:26–27). Perhaps your children could take turns acting out things they can do to honor their parents, while the other children guess what they are doing.


    Friend March 2019     “A Lesson From My Parents” Color the pictures and circle the things a parent has taught you. What else can you think of?

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

    New Era March 2017 “20 Wats to Honor Mom and Dad”

    • Invite the children to make a thank-you card for their parents. They could write or draw inside the card something they will do to honor their parents.

    Friend September 2020 “Loving Our Families” Cut out the strips of paper and put them in a bowl. After you do one of the activities, add a link to your chain of hearts.

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    Honoring the Sabbath is a Sign of My Love for the Lord.

    Exodus CHAPTER 3 Artisans are inspired in building and furnishing the tabernacle—Israel is commanded to keep the Lord’s Sabbaths—The death penalty is decreed for Sabbath desecration—Moses receives the stone tablets.

    Exodus 31:13, 16–17

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Your children might enjoy looking at examples of signs—such as road signs or signs on a building. What are the purposes of signs? Your children could then find the word “sign” in Exodus 31:13, 16–17. What did the Lord say is a sign between us and Him? Share with each other some of the ways you and your family try to show your love for the Lord on the Sabbath.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34” The Lord told Moses that when the children of Israel kept the Sabbath day holy, they showed Him that they wanted to be His people.

    • Draw a heart on the board, and ask the children what this symbol can mean. Help them think of other things that can be a sign for love, like a hug or an act of service. Read to them Exodus 31:13. Help them understand that when we keep the Sabbath day holy, it is a sign to the Lord that we love Him.

    Latter Day Kids “The Sabbath Day” Lesson ideas

    • Tell the children about some of the ways you try to show your love for the Lord on the Sabbath. Let them share how they and their families do this. Invite them to use this week’s activity page to share more ideas.
    • Invite the children to take turns explaining why they choose to honor the Sabbath. Videos like “The Sabbath Is for You” or “Upon My Holy Day—Honoring the Sabbath” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org) can help.

    The Sabbath is For You

    Teaching Children the Gospel “Calendar and Chart Activity” Lists of things to do on Sunday with sticker activity

    For additional teaching resources see Sabbath Day and Resources for Teaching Children “Sabbath Day”

    The Golden Calf

    Exodus CHAPTER 32 Aaron makes a golden calf, which Israel worships—Moses serves as a mediator between God and rebellious Israel—Moses breaks the tablets of stone—The Levites slay about 3,000 rebels—Moses pleads and intercedes for the people.

    I will not “turn aside” from God’s ways.

    Exodus 32:1–8, 19–24; 34:6–7

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Consider using “Moses on Mount Sinai” (in Old Testament Stories, 77–82) to help your children learn the story in Exodus 32:1–8, 19–24. Why was it wrong for the Israelites to worship a statue instead of God?

    • It might be fun to create a path on the floor (or find one near your home) to illustrate these words from Exodus 32:8: “They have turned aside quickly out of the way.” While walking on the path, your children could talk about temptations we face to turn away from God. What helps us remain on God’s path—and return to it if we have strayed? (see Exodus 34:6–7).

    Friend Special Issue: Baptism and Confirmation “Walking along the Covenant Path”

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34”

    • Younger Children: Show a picture of Jesus Christ, along with pictures of other things that children might spend time on, such as toys, games, and so on. Ask the children to find the picture that shows what should be most important to us. Share with the children how you are blessed for putting the Lord first in your life—even before other things that are good.
    • Older Children: Help the children think of examples of things people may be tempted to worship instead of the Lord—things that draw our attention away from Him. Then ask them to share examples of things that help them focus on the Savior and worship Him.

    Read together Helaman 7:20–21, and ask the children what they think it means to forget God. Explain that the word forget can also mean “to neglect” or “ignore.” Display a picture of the Savior, and invite the children to draw things they might spend too much time doing that could cause them to forget the Lord. Put their drawings in front of the picture of Jesus. Ask the children to think of things they can do each day to remember Heavenly Father and Jesus. As they share their thoughts, take away the drawings one by one until the picture of the Savior is revealed. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 7–12: “Remember the Lord”)

    Friend January 2017 “The Next Level” Max takes a week off from playing games and he learns new things, spends time with his family, serves, and feels the Spirit.

    One message from the account in Exodus 32 is the importance of keeping the first two of the Ten Commandments—do not worship anyone or anything other than the Lord.

    Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Worship the Lord” Lesson ideas

    I Can Stand for Righteousness.

    Exodus 32:1–5, 21–24

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34” When the Israelites told Aaron to make a golden idol, he agreed to do it, even though this was wrong (see Deuteronomy 9:20). Consider how you can encourage the children to stand for righteousness, even when others pressure them not to.

    • Invite the children to read Exodus 32:1–5, 21–24, individually or in pairs, and share what they think Aaron should have done when the Israelites asked him to make a golden calf. How might Aaron have helped the people?
    • Help the children think of situations they might face when other people ask them to do something they know is wrong. Ask the children to share ideas with each other about what to do in those situations.

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

    Friend November 2017 “Peer Pressure Problems” Ideas on how to deal with peer pressure to avoid making wrong choices.
    For additional teaching ideas also see Stand for the Right.

    The Lord Talked to Moses Face to Face.

    Exodus CHAPTER 33 The Lord promises to be with Israel and drive out the people of the land—The tabernacle of the congregation is moved away from the camp—The Lord speaks to Moses face to face in the tabernacle—Later, Moses sees the glory of God but not His face.

    Exodus 33:11

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 24; 31–34”

    • Tell the children how you feel when you talk with a good friend, and ask them how they feel. Read to them the first sentence of Exodus 33:11. Ask the children how they think the prophet Moses might have felt. Tell the children about times when you have felt close to the Lord, even if you didn’t see Him with your eyes.

    Ensign July 2010 “Jesus Christ, Our Perfect Friend”

    • Sing together a song that expresses how Heavenly Father or Jesus feels about us, such as “Jesus Is Our Loving Friend” (Children’s Songbook, 58). Show pictures of the Savior showing love to others (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 36, 41–43, 46–47). Encourage the children to share how they feel about Heavenly Father and Jesus.

    Exodus CHAPTER 34 Moses hews new tables of stone—He goes up into Mount Sinai for forty days—The Lord proclaims His name and attributes and reveals His law—He makes another covenant with Israel—The skin of Moses’ face shines, and he wears a veil.

    Friend April 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Tablets from a Mountain

    Story: God gave commandments to Moses on stone tablets. The Israelites promised to obey them (see Exodus 24:7).

    Song: “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47)

    Activity: You can promise to obey too. Make pretend tablets out of paper. Then draw or write on them ways that you keep the commandments.

    Additional Resources

    See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel

    Come Follow Me Kid “All that the Lord Has Spoken We Will Do”

    Come Follow Me Kid “My Presence Shall Go Before Thee”

    The Red Crystal

    Apr 4 2022

    Exodus 14–18

    Featured

    Table of Contents

    Crossing the Red Sea

    Genesis CHAPTER 14 Israel goes out of Egypt—Israel passes through the Red Sea on dry ground—The Lord overthrows the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.

    The Lord can do a “great work” in my life.

    Exodus 14:5–22

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    • Think of ways to share the story of the Israelites crossing the Red Sea in an interesting and memorable way. For example, you or another ward member could dress up like Moses to tell the story from Exodus 14:5, 9–10, 13–16, 19–22. The children could pretend that the chairs or blankets are the Red Sea, and they could follow the person portraying Moses as he makes a path between them. Or the children could pretend to be the water and move to separate sides of the room as Moses divides them. Emphasize that the Lord gave Moses the power to part the sea so the Israelites could be delivered from captivity.

    The Red Crystal This site has a fun reenactment skit. (or you could use the skit below)

    Friend April 2022 “Moses Parts the Red Sea” Script to act out Moses parting the Red Sea.

    • Invite the children to color the activity page as you review with them the story from Exodus 14:5–22. Then they could work together to tell the story using the activity page.

    When the Lord parted the Red Sea, Moses and the Israelites saw how powerful He is. (see also “The Passover” in Old Testament Stories, 70–74). Then you could share with each other how you have seen God’s power in your lives.

    Old Testament Scripture Stories “The Passover”

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    As you read Exodus 14:1–10, imagine how the Israelites might have felt as they saw Pharaoh’s army closing in. Perhaps you feel that you need a miracle to survive a difficult challenge you are facing.

    Your family members might enjoy trying to “divide” the water in a bowl or a bathtub, as Moses divided the Red Sea. Help them understand that the Red Sea could not be divided without the power of God. How have we seen God’s power in our lives and the lives of our ancestors?

    Friend June 2025 “Presentation Panic” Allyson hated talking in front of people, but she had to do a history presentation. She had practiced it several times, but when she got up to give it her mind went blank from fear. She said a prayer in her mind for help. As soon as she finished, her panic faded away and she was able to give her presentation.

    Friend October 2023 “Timeon’s Priesthood Blessing” Timeon fell and hurt his arm when playing monkeys with his friends at an empty tree hut. He was in a lot of pain, but there were no doctors close enough to visit in the dark. The elders gave him a priesthood blessing. Soon Timeon’s arm didn’t hurt so much. He felt calm and peaceful. He was even able to fall asleep. They were able to go see a doctor in the morning. Timeon was grateful for priesthood power.

    Friend February 2023 “Lost and Found Friends”. 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.

    I Can Learn to Always Follow the Spirit.

    Exodus 14:5–22

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    What does Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3 add to our understanding of the story in Exodus 14? Moses knew by revelation how to lead the Israelites across the Red Sea.

    Media Library

    • Consider telling your children about an experience when the Holy Ghost told you something in your mind or heart, and invite them to talk about their experiences. You could also sing a song about the Holy Ghost, such as “Let the Holy Spirit Guide” (Hymns, no. 143).

    Friend March 2020 “Check the Kittens” After everyone has gone to bed, a girl kept having the thought to go and check on their kittens. She acted on the prompting and found that a warming light had fallen over onto the kittens cardboard box and would have caught on fire. The Holy Ghost helped keep their family and kittens safe.

    • Remind the children of the story of Nephi following the Spirit when he went to get the brass plates (see 1 Nephi 4:1–6). Help the children see that Moses also had to follow the Spirit when he led his people across the Red Sea.

    The Lord Provides Manna, Quail, and Water

    Exodus CHAPTER 15 The children of Israel sing the song of Moses—They extol the Lord as a man of war and rejoice in their deliverance from Egypt—The waters of Marah are healed—The Lord promises to free Israel from the diseases of Egypt.

    Exodus CHAPTER 16 Israel murmurs for want of bread and lusts for the fleshpots of Egypt—The Lord rains bread from heaven and sends quail for meat—Israel is given manna each day, except the Sabbath, for forty years.

    The Lord can make bitter things sweet.

    Exodus 15:22–25

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Maybe you and your children could drink something sweet and something bitter while studying Exodus 15:22–25 together. How has the Savior made “bitter” experiences in our lives “sweet”?

    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.

    Jesus is my Living Water, my Bread of Life, and my Rock.

    Exodus 15:23–25; 16:14–15; 17:1–6

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    The Red Crystal Matching activity: One page has scriptures from Exodus, the other page has scriptures that tie it to Jesus. When a match is made, read both scriptures and ask the children how the object taught them about Jesus.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17” Divide the class into pairs or small groups, and assign each group to read one of the following passages: Exodus 15:23–25; 16:14–15; 17:1–6. Ask the children in each group to draw pictures representing what they read in these verses, and then ask other class members to guess what they have drawn. Help the children identify what these stories teach about Jesus Christ. What trials do people have today? How do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ help us with our trials?

    Old Testament Stories “The Israelites in the Wilderness” Video and Illustrations

    Friend April 2022 “Moses and the Manna”

    As you review these stories, ask the children why bread and water were so important to the children of Israel. What would have happened if they hadn’t had these things?

    The accounts of the Lord providing food and water for the Israelites in the wilderness teach us that He can provide for our needs. If we turn to Jesus Christ, He can help us during difficult times in our lives, just as He helped the children of Israel.

    Media Library “The Gathering of the Manna”

    Additional Resources:

    Israelites Prevail in Battle as Moses Hands are Held Up

    Exodus CHAPTER 17 Israel murmurs for want of water—Moses smites a rock in Horeb, and water gushes forth—Aaron and Hur uphold Moses’ hands so that Joshua prevails against Amalek.

    I can help “bear the burden” of doing the Lord’s work.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17” The children of Israel were victorious in the battle against Amalek only when Moses had his hands raised in the air. What can we learn about sustaining our leaders from this story?

    Exodus 17:8–16; 18:13–26

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • As you read Exodus 17:8–16, you could invite a child to hold their hands high in the air. When the child gets tired, other children could help, the way Aaron and Hur helped Moses. What does this story teach about how we can help God’s kingdom be successful? You could also read Exodus 18:13–26 and talk about the heavy responsibilities of people who serve in your ward. What can we do today to help our Church leaders, just as Aaron and Hur helped the prophet Moses?
    Media Library “One Before God”

    Sustaining leaders involves more than just a raised hand—it means that we stand behind them, pray for them, accept assignments and callings from them, hearken to their counsel, and refrain from criticizing them. (Come Follow Me for Aaronic Priesthood “What does it mean to sustain my Church leaders?”)

    Friend October 2004 “I Can Sustain the Prophet” Cut out the strip of pictures on this page and cut them apart. Read each sentence, find the picture/word for the missing word, and glue it in place.

    Friend November 2019 “Dear Student Dictionary” After President Nelson’s special youth devotional, Matthew looked for ways to be a youth-battalion member. He was kind to others and stood up for kids being teased. After President Nelson’s conference talk about calling the church by its correct name, he wrote a letter to a student dictionary that used the name “Mormons”  and explained what the correct name of the church was.

    Jethro Counsels Moses to Delegate

    Exodus CHAPTER 18 Jethro comes to Moses bringing Moses’ wife and sons and offers sacrifices to the Lord—Moses sits in the judgment seat and hears all cases—Jethro counsels Moses to teach the law, to appoint lesser judges, and to delegate power to them.

    I Can Help “Bear the Burden” of Doing the Lord’s Work.

    Exodus 18:13–26

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20” Moses learned that trying to lead the children of Israel all by himself was “not good” (Exodus 18:17). Loving and serving one another can help ease the burdens of our leaders.

    • Invite the children to draw many circles on the board to represent members of the ward. Draw a circle labeled bishop. Why would it be a problem if the bishop were the only one helping everyone else? Read together Exodus 18:13–26 to find out what advice Jethro gave when Moses was trying to do everything himself. Ask the children to label other circles to represent other ward leaders and members who help the bishop serve others. How do these other leaders and members make the bishop’s burden lighter? How can we do the same for our ward leaders? for our parents at home?

    Friend December 2019 “Notes for Sister Puckett” Tyler was excited to become a deacon so he could serve and minister like his parents do. (His father takes notes in sacrament for Sister Puckett who is sick, and his mom made taco soup for her.)

    • Help the children make a list of leaders in your ward. As a class, select one and discuss what this person does to accomplish the Lord’s work and what the children can do to help. (Suggestions: Primary leaders, Primary teachers, chorister, librarians)

    Friend December 2018 Match each sentence with a picture. In the blank spot, draw yourself helping at church.

    • I can put away a hymnbook.
    • I can pick up trash I see.
    • I can help hold up a picture.
    • I can sit so reverently!

    Giving Talks, Singing, Playing Instruments

    Friend June 2018 “A Baptism Song” Elizabeth and her sister sang at a baptism which helped those attending to feel the Spirit.

    • “Prayer Power” (March 2019 Liahona and Friend)
      Lucy and her family pray for their church leaders.

    Friend April 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Bear One Another’s Burdens“

    Activity: Have one person stand and hold their arms out. Put a book in each of their hands. Add more books until they are too heavy to hold up. Then have two people hold the person’s arms up. Is it easier to carry a burden when you have help? How can you help others? How can you ask for help?

    Friend May 2020 “I Will Be Valiant” Song and Sing-along Video.

    The Lord needs valiant servants,

    To do His work in the latter day,

    Who follow the teachings of Jesus

    And serve His people in a loving way.

    I will be His servant

    And keep my cov’nants valiantly.

    I’ll stand for truth. I’ll stand for right.

    The Lord can depend on me.

    Additional Resources

    See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Exodus 14-18”

    Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17”

    Come Follow Me Kid

    Mar 28 2022

     Exodus 7–13

    Featured

    Table of Contents

    The Plagues of Egypt

    Exodus CHAPTER 7 Moses is appointed to give the word of the Lord to Pharaoh—The Lord will multiply signs and wonders in Egypt—Aaron’s rod becomes a serpent—The river is turned into blood—The magicians imitate the miracles of Moses and Aaron.

    Exodus CHAPTER 8 The Lord sends plagues of frogs, lice, and flies upon Egypt—Pharaoh hardens his heart.

    Exodus CHAPTER 9 The Lord destroys the cattle of the Egyptians, but not of the Israelites—Boils and blains are sent upon the Egyptians—The Lord sends hail and fire upon the people of Pharaoh, but not upon the people of Israel.

    Exodus CHAPTER 10 The Lord sends a plague of locusts—This is followed by thick darkness in all Egypt for three days—Moses is cast out from the presence of Pharaoh.

    Exodus CHAPTER 11 The departing Israelites are authorized to ask for jewels and gold from their neighbors—The Lord promises to slay the firstborn in every Egyptian home—He puts a difference between the Egyptians and the Israelites.

    The Lord Has Power Over All Things.

    Exodus 7–11

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 7–13” The Israelites were in captivity and could not free themselves, but the Lord showed His power and delivered them.

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    The plagues described in Exodus 7–11 showed the Egyptians and the Israelites that the Lord has great power. The Lord will help your children throughout their lives when they have faith in His power. To help them learn from this story, you could give each child a paper divided into 10 sections, and invite them to draw pictures of the plagues described in these verses: Exodus 7:17–18; 8:1–4; 8:16–17; 8:20–22; 9:1–6; 9:8–9; 9:22–23; 10:4–5; 10:21–22; 11:4–7  (You could also give one scripture reference to each child and have them draw pictures of the plague that they read about. They could then show the picture to the class as they tell about the plague.)

    The Red Crystal

    See also “The Plagues of Egypt” in Old Testament Stories, 67–69. Read together Exodus 7:5 and 9:14 to explain why the Lord sent the plagues.

    Old Testament Stories “The Plagues of Egypt” Illustrations and video

    Old Testament Coloring Book “Plagues of Egypt”

    • Share with your children how the Lord has shown you “that there is none like [Him] in all the earth” (Exodus 9:14). Let them share how they know that the Lord is powerful. What do the plagues teach us about God’s power? Why is it important to know about His power?

    The Lord Has Power to Deliver Me.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 7–13” Children face challenges and need the Lord to help them. The story of the ten plagues the Lord sent to free the Israelites can help the children understand that He also has the power to help them.

    • Ask the children about times when they felt they needed the Lord’s help. How can He help us in these situations? Encourage them to talk about times when they or their family have experienced the Lord’s power in their lives. Bear your testimony that the Lord has the power to help us.

    Friend July 1988 “Power of Prayer” A pioneer father is inspired that something was wrong at home. When he arrives he finds that his daughter has fallen into the fireplace. He gives her a blessing and every promise is fulfilled.

    img_5445

    Friend April 2006 “Miracles”

    The Lord Can Help Me Have a Soft Heart.

    Exodus 8:28–32; 9:7

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Show the children the bowl of water, rock, and sponge. Ask (or show) what would happen if you poured water onto the sponge, and then ask (or show) what would happen if you poured water onto the rock in the water. Just like the hard rock will not absorb water, a hard heart will not let direction from the Lord or others in. Just like a soft sponge will absorb water, a soft heart is open to the Lord’s direction and receives the word of the Lord. A soft heart is humble and teachable. You could then read together a few verses describing how Pharaoh responded to the plagues sent by the Lord (see Exodus 8:28–32; 9:7). Which of the objects best represents Pharaoh’s heart or attitude?(see Mosiah 3:19). Elder Christopher H. Kim’s message “Harden Not Your Heart” could also help your children understand the difference between a hard heart and a soft one (Liahona, May 2025, 118–20, especially the fifth paragraph).
    • You and your children could make a list of some actions that might show when we have a hard heart (for example, using unkind words or being unwilling to share). How can we show the Lord we want to have soft hearts? (The below hearts could be printed and put on the board and the children could write the lists next to the correct heart.)

    The Red Crystal

    Latter Day Kids “A Soft Heart” Lesson ideas

    The Passover

    Exodus CHAPTER 12 The Lord institutes the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread—Lambs without blemish are slain—Israel is saved by their blood—The firstborn of all Egyptians are slain—Israel is thrust out of Egypt after 430 years—No bones of the paschal lambs are to be broken.

    Exodus CHAPTER 13 The firstborn of man and of beasts are to be sanctified unto the Lord—The Feast of Unleavened Bread is to be kept in the land of Canaan—Moses takes Joseph’s bones out of Egypt—The Lord attends Israel in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.

    The Sacrament Helps Me Remember My Deliverance Through Jesus Christ.


    Ask some of the children to read Exodus 11:5–6 to learn about the final plague the Lord sent upon the Egyptians. Ask the other children to read Exodus 12:3, 5–7, 13 to learn about how the children of Israel were saved from that plague.

    Old Testament Scripture Stories “The Passover”

    The sacrament can help me remember Jesus.

    Exodus 12:1–13

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 7–13”

    • The Passover taught the children of Israel that the Lord delivered them from Egypt. The Passover also taught the Israelites about the Savior and the sacrifice He would one day make for us. The Passover is symbolic of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which delivers us from sin and death. The Passover taught the Israelites to look forward to the Savior and His sacrifice for us. As you explore Exodus 12:1–13 together, help your children see connections between the details of the Passover and Jesus Christ’s Atonement (see also “The Passover” in Old Testament Stories, 70–74). For example, how is Jesus like the lamb described in verse 5?

    Old Testament Seminary Student Material & Old Testament Seminary Teacher Material

    Lamb (Jesus Christ)

    Blood (Atonement of Jesus Christ)

    Bitter herbs (bondage, sin)

    Unleavened bread (repentance, removal of sin)

    Lamb without blemish (Exodus 12:4–6, 46) Jesus Christ, “the Lamb of God” (John 1:36), was perfect and was slain for the sins of the world. 

    Blood of the lamb on the lintel and door posts (Exodus 12:6–7, 12–13) The lamb’s blood needed to be placed around the doors to protect the people inside from the destroying angel.. The Atonement of Jesus Christ can protect us from the power of Satan as we apply the conditions of repentance in our lives.

    Unleavened bread (Exodus 12:8, 15) Leaven, or yeast, causes bread to become moldy. As part of our repentance, we are to rid our lives of anything that can corrupt our spirits.

    Bitter herbs (Exodus 12:8) The bitter herbs reminded the Israelites of their years of bitter bondage in Egypt. The bitter bondage is like the bitterness of our sins.

    Freepik

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Exodus 7-13” On the evening before Jesus Christ was crucified, He and His disciples shared a Passover meal together. At the end of this meal, Jesus introduced the ordinance of the sacrament, which He told His disciples to repeat in remembrance of Him. The following day, in similitude of the lamb that was sacrificed as part of the Passover, the Lamb of God was sacrificed on the cross for the sins of the world. His sacrifice ended the need for animal sacrifices.

    Media Library

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026

    • Today, we take the sacrament to remember Jesus’s sacrifice. You could show your children a picture of the sacrament and talk about how this ordinance helps us remember Jesus Christ. You might help your children find the word “remember” in the sacrament prayers (see Moroni 4–5).
    Media Library

    Friend June 2023 “A Tiny Piece of Bread” Anahí was excited to take the sacrament at the church building again after Covid was over, but by the time the tray got to her there was only a small crumb left. She picked it up and put it in her mouth, but all day long she worried that it didn’t count because it was only a crumb. But her mom said, “I saw you looking at the little picture of Jesus. What were you thinking about?” Anahi said, “I was thinking about how Jesus loves me. And about the nail prints in His hands and feet. And all He did for us.” Her mom explained, “That’s why we take the bread and water. To remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us.” So the size of the bread doesn’t matter, what matters is how you feel as you remember the Savior.

    • Sing together “The Sacrament” (Children’s Songbook, 72). Or sing together a favorite hymn about the sacrament, and help your children notice the peaceful feeling they have when they think about the Savior. How can we seek that feeling when we take the sacrament?

    Exodus 12:1–42.

    After reading Exodus 12:1–42 together, you could write on pieces of paper things you can do as a family to remember Jesus Christ’s Atonement. Because the lamb’s blood on the door posts (see verse 23) represented the Savior, you could place these papers around a doorway in your home. You could also eat some of the foods from the Passover, such as unleavened bread (crackers or tortillas) or bitter herbs (parsley or horseradish), and discuss how the Passover helps us remember how God delivered His people. For example, the unleavened bread reminded them that there was not time for their bread to rise before they fled from captivity. The bitter herbs reminded them of the bitterness of captivity. (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 7–13”)

    Additional Resources

    See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

    Lesson 19: Moses Delivers the Israelites from Bondage,” Primary 6: Old Testament

    Scripture Helps: Old Testament “Exodus 7-13”

    How were Pharaoh’s magicians able to imitate some of the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron?

    President Dallin H. Oaks remarked: “You will remember that the magicians in Pharaoh’s court duplicated some of the miracles Moses produced through the power of God [see Exodus 7–8]. Perhaps these magicians were servants of the devil, using his power, but I think it more likely that they were simply skilled practitioners of magic tricks that they used to reinforce their position in Pharaoh’s court.”

    Although the magicians of Egypt were able to perform some imitations, they were never able to prevent or overcome the plagues the Lord sent. In fact, their imitations of the first two plagues likely made circumstances worse for the people of Egypt. The contrast between the Lord’s priesthood power exercised by Moses and the imitations wrought by the magicians of Egypt illustrates that God’s power is superior to all other forms of power.

    Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

    The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

    Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Know That I Am the Lord” Lesson ideas

    Mar 21 2022

    Exodus 1-6

    Featured

    Table of Contents

    ISRAELITES IN BONDAGE

    Exodus CHAPTER 1 The children of Israel multiply—They are placed in bondage by the Egyptians—Pharaoh seeks to destroy the sons born to Hebrew women.

    MOSES IN EGYPT then MIDIAN

    Exodus CHAPTER 2 Moses is born to Levite parents, is raised by Pharaoh’s daughter, slays an Egyptian in defense of an Israelite, flees to Midian, and marries Zipporah—Israel in bondage cries to the Lord.

    God can work through me to fulfill His purposes.

    Exodus 1–2

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6

    • Moses had a major role in freeing Israel from bondage. But he wouldn’t have been able to accomplish this if his mother, his sister, Pharaoh’s daughter, and other faithful women hadn’t protected and cared for him. Help your children learn about these women in Exodus 1:15–20; Exodus 2:2–10 (see also Numbers 26:59); and Exodus 2:16–21. You could also use this week’s activity page and “Baby Moses” (in Old Testament Stories, 61–63) to tell their stories. How did these women help fulfill God’s plan?

    Old Testament Stories “Baby Moses” Illustrations and video

    Friend March 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

    Lesson 18: The Birth and Calling of Moses,” Primary 6: Old Testament (Page 90-95) Tie the ends of the yarn together. Hand the yarn to a child and tell him or her to hold it up in a circle using only his or her hands. When the child cannot do so, ask another child to help, then another until all the children are helping form the yarn into a circle. (If you have only two or three children in the class, have them make a square or a six-sided figure.)

    Explain that as each person was needed to help make the shape, each of us has a mission to fulfill in the kingdom of God. Tell the children that in this lesson they will learn about the prophet Moses and the mission he was called to perform.

    Explain that there are many important things that Heavenly Father and Jesus need us to do. Ask the children to take turns writing their suggestions on the chalkboard. These may include being a parent, a teacher, a Church leader, or a good example. Emphasize that each of us has at least one mission to perform on earth and that God needs all of us to help build his kingdom.

    • Tell the children about people you admire because of their faithfulness in serving God and those around them, even when they serve in small ways. Invite the children to talk about people they know who have faithfully served God and others. What is our part in God’s work?

    Friend March 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

    Story: When Moses was a baby, his mother hid him in a basket to keep him safe. His sister helped take care of him too. He grew up and became a prophet. (See Exodus 2:1–10.)

    Activity: You can help others too! Go to page 12 to make a paper basket, like the one Moses was in. On pieces of paper, write ways you can serve others (and God). Then put the papers in the basket. When you want to help someone, choose a piece of paper and do what it says.

    Friend March 2022 “Make a Basket for Baby Moses”

    • Sing together a song about service, such as “‘Give,’ Said the Little Stream” (Children’s Songbook, 236). Help the children think of simple things they can do to help others at home, at church, and at school.

    MOSES AND THE BURNING BUSH

    Exodus CHAPTER 3 The Lord appears to Moses at the burning bush—Moses is called to deliver Israel from bondage—The Lord identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and as the Great I AM—He promises to smite Egypt and bring His people out with great wealth.

    Exodus 3:1–5 The Lord asked Moses to remove his shoes at the burning bush as a sign of respect and reverence.

    I can treat holy places with reverence.

    Exodus 3:1–5

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6

    • After reading Exodus 3:1–5 together, ask your children to summarize these verses in their own words (see also “Moses the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories, 64–66). You could also review the beginning of Elder Ulisses Soares’s message “Reverence for Sacred Things” (Liahona, May 2025, 108).

    Old Testament Stories “Moses the Prophet” Story illustrations and Videos

    • How did Moses show reverence in the Lord’s presence? How does the Lord want us to show reverence? You might also ask your children to help you find (or draw) pictures of sacred places or activities where we should be reverent.
    • Activity ideas: Have the children sort these pictures, or the list below the pictures, into places where we should be reverent and where we don’t need to be reverent.
    Friend January 2017
    Friend September 2015
    Friend September 2015
    Friend February 2018

    The Red Crystal

    Talk about how being reverent at appropriate times helps us know Heavenly Father and Jesus better and feel their presence in our lives.

    • Sing together a song about reverence, such as “Reverence Is Love” (Children’s Songbook, 31). As you do, your children could find words or phrases that explain what it means to be reverent. If we were bringing a friend to church for the first time, how would we explain what it means to be reverent?
    Friend October 2016
    Friend October 2016

    For additional teaching ideas see Reverence.

    When the Lord asks me to do something, He will help me do it.

    Exodus 3–4

    Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6

    • Using the account in Exodus 3; 4:1–17, let your children take turns pretending to be Moses. It might be fun to include objects or simple props, such as a flashlight and a plant to represent the burning bush.
    Gospel Art Picture: “Moses and the Burning Bush”
    • Help your children discover how Moses felt about the assignment the Lord gave him (see Exodus 3:11; 4:1, 10). Maybe you could share with each other times when you had similar feelings. What advice would we share with Moses to help him? Read about how the Lord encouraged Moses in Exodus 3:12; 4:2–9, 11–12. Tell the children how the Savior has helped you fulfill a calling, follow a prompting, or do something else that was hard for you.

    Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.

    • Help the children think of situations when they might be asked to do something that seems hard. Explain that just as Jesus helped Moses, Jesus will also help them. Sing a song about how Jesus helps us, such as “I Will Walk with Jesus” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Testify that the Savior will help us when we are worried or scared.

    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 November 2019 “The Primary Talk” Dennis was afraid to give a talk in Primary because he stutters. He prayed, prepared, and practiced but he was still nervous, so he asked his father to give him a blessing. After the blessing he was able to give the talk with only a few stutters, and he knew Heavenly Father helped him.

    Additional Lesson Topic Ideas

    The Lord sees our afflictions and will help as we turn to him.

    Exodus 3:7

    The Lord explained to Moses that He had seen the afflictions of the children of Israel, heard their prayers, and knew their sorrows (see Exodus 3:7).

    1. Assign each person an emotion based on the color they’re wearing most of:
      • Yellow = happy
      • Blue = sad
      • Red = angry
      • Green = calm
      • Orange = scared
      • Other = confused or surprised
    2. Each person will share a specific experience when they’ve felt that emotion.
    3. Can we tell how people are feeling just by their appearance or what they’re wearing?
    4. Who sees all our emotions, including our afflictions and sorrows, even when others might not be able to?
    5. Find scriptures that show how Jesus Christ knows and understands us.

    Discussion: What are some trials we’ve been through? How can we know that the Lord was aware of us through those times?

    Jesus Christ is my Deliverer.

    Jesus Christ is also known as our “Deliverer.” What does it mean to deliver? Talk about how He has power to save us from sin and death. He also had a plan to deliver the Israelites

    One of the central themes in the book of Exodus is that God has power to free His people from oppression. The enslavement of the Israelites as described in Exodus 1 could be seen as a symbol of the captivity we all face because of sin and death (see 2 Nephi 2:26–27; 9:10; Alma 36:28).

    Additional Resources

    See Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas & Old Testament: Activities & Games for additional lesson resources.

    Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

    The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

    Jul 15 2020

    Sabbath Day: Lesson Item 1

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    It is a Commandment to Keep the Sabbath Day Holy 

    Game and Object Lesson

    Preparation

    • Items needed: a pitcher of water, a bowl, and a clear plastic cup or a glass.
    • Either print a copy of the game and cut out the game pieces, or download and open the game in Microsoft Word. If opened in Microsoft Word, the game pieces can be moved by clicking on the center of the image or label and then dragging it to where it should go on the chart.
    • Alternative visuals: Cut out the game cards and the picture of Moses. (Optional: color cardstock can be used for the game boards.) (Game cards are from “My Creation Book” pictures – Friend, March 2002 “For Little Friends”

    Game
    Divide the family into two groups or more. (More copies of the game board and creation pictures will be needed if if the family is divided into more than two groups.)
    Give each group a game board and a set of creation pictures.
    Have each group try to put the correct pictures in each square according to which “day” it took place in the creation account (one square will get two pictures). After they are done, tell them the correct order and have them check their answers.

    • On the first day God made light and divided the light from the darkness.
    • On the second day God made the sky (firmament).
    • On the third day God made the flowers, grass and trees.
    • On the fourth day God made the sun, moon, and stars
    • On the fifth day God made the birds, fish and whales.
    • On the sixth day God made the land animals… and man.

    Discussion or PowerPoint
    After they fix their boards, ask the family what day of the week is missing on their chart. (The seventh)

    • What happened on the seventh day? (Read Genesis 2:2-3) God sanctified the day and rested from his labors.

    Since the beginning of the world, one day a week has been set apart for us to rest from our labors, and to focus on worship and spiritual matters. We call this day the Sabbath.

    • What day do we observe the Sabbath? (On Sunday)

    (Show the picture of Moses)
    When Moses was on the earth, the Lord gave him some stone tablets.
    • What was written on those tablets? (The Ten Commandments)

    Read Exodus 20:8 Explain that keeping the Sabbath day holy was one of the Ten Commandments. Keeping the Sabbath day holy is a commandment.

    Object Lesson Discussion or Video

    • Why are we to keep the Sabbath day holy?

    In the bible dictionary, it says that something that is holy is set apart for a sacred purpose.

    • What purpose was the Sabbath day set apart for? (For worship, and to get spiritually strengthened and physically rested)

    Read the scripture Exodus 31:17. “For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” So on the Sabbath we are to rest and refresh. We know what rest means, so what does refresh mean? (It means to be re-energized, reinvigorated, replenished.)

    Heavenly Father knew we would need to be physically re-energized and spiritually replenished after a busy week, so he gave us a day to recharge and refresh our bodies and spirits.

    Object Lesson:

    Show a full glass of water and explain that the full cup represents being spiritually replenished and physically rested and recharged after a Sabbath day of attending our church meetings, resting our bodies, and focusing on gospel activities.

    During the week we are involved in activities that may drain our spiritual and physical reserves. (Pour water from the cup into the bowl as you name several possibilities such as work and chores, sports. school and responsibilities, disagreements with a family member, or making  wrong choices.)

    We can replenish our cup a little each day as we read the scriptures, pray and keep the commandments (pour a little water from the pitcher into the cup for each item mentioned), but the Lord knew we would need more.

    So on Sunday we are commanded to use the entire day for spiritual refreshment and physical rest so that we can have the spiritual strength and physical renewal to help us make good choices and keep the commandments throughout the week. (Fill the cup with water) So the Sabbath tops of our spiritual and physical reserves and we are recharged and replenished for the next week. (Object lesson from Primary 6 manual, Lesson 20, Enrichment Activity #1 )

    Jan 9 2013

    Sabbath Day: Lesson Item 8

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    Sabbath Preparation

     Scripture Story Activity

    “The Israelites Prepared Ahead for the Sabbath”

    Preparation

    • Items needed: Bible for each family member, one piece of heavy paper, exacto knife, glue,
    • Print and cut out the PDF or Word illustrations. Fold back the tabs on the basket. With an exacto knife, cut slits on the family picture along the side edges of A and C.  Line up the bottom edge of the basket to the bottom edge of B on the family picture, and then tape tab B down (the tab should be inside the basket, not facing outward). Insert the A and C basket tabs into the A and C side slits. Tape those tabs to the back of the picture. The top of the basket should bow out like a basket. Fold the tabs back on the bottom of the Israelite family picture. Tape the tabs to the top of a heavy piece of paper. The family figure should be standing up on the heavy paper, but you should be able to fold it down to store the picture.
    •  Cut out the scripture references (and the two numbers), and glue one to the back of each manna piece. (Israelite family and manna images are from the Friend Nov. 2004 pg. 390

    Presentation

    Display the picture of the Israelite family on the table or floor so that the family figure is standing up.  Put the manna pieces in front of the family figure.

    Tell the family that after Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt, the Israelites had to travel through the wilderness to reach the Promised Land. They did not have enough food to make such a long journey, so the Lord provided manna from heaven for them to eat.

    Activity Instructions:

    Tell the family they are going do an activity that will teach them more about the story of the manna from heaven.

    Have each family member take turns choosing pieces of manna until they are all gone. Have them look up the scripture references that are on the back of their manna pieces. (A couple of pieces will have numbers instead of scriptures on them. Those will be used later in the activity.)

    Going in numerical order read the following questions to the family. After a question is read, ask the family if anyone has the answer to it. Have the person tell what the answer is. (Optional: Also have them read the scripture) After they tell the family the answer, have them put that piece of manna into the basket.

    Questions:

    1. Why did the children of Israel murmur against Moses and Aaron?  (murmur means to complain or rebel) Exodus 16:2-3
    2. Why would the murmuring against Moses and Aaron really be murmuring against the Lord? Exodus 16:6,8
    3. What food did the Lord provide for the Israelites in the mornings, and what food did the Lord provide in the evenings? Also describe how the food arrived. Exodus 16:11-15
    4. Describe the manna’s characteristics such as what it looked like, and what it tasted like. Exodus 16: 14, 21, 31
    5. How much manna did the Lord command the Israelites to gather each day? Exodus 16:16-18
    6. What happened the next day to the manna when more was gathered than was needed? Exodus 16:19-20
    7. What did the Lord instruct the Israelites to do differently in regards to the manna on the day before the Sabbath? Exodus 16: 22-23
    8. How were the Israelites blessed by preparing ahead for the Sabbath? Exodus 16: 24, 29
    9. What happened when some of the people did not prepare ahead and expected to gather manna on the Sabbath? Exodus 16:27
    10. What did the Israelite people do on the Sabbath? Exodus 16:30
    11. How long did the Lord provide food for the Israelites? Exodus 16:35

    * Have the family members with the numbered manna pieces answer the following questions.

    1. What did the Israelites learn about the Sabbath? (That they should not work on the Sabbath. They should prepare ahead for the Sabbath so they can rest on the Sabbath day because it is a holy day.)
    2. The Israelites prepared for the Sabbath by gathering twice as much food the day before. Name three things we could do to prepare ahead so that our Sabbaths can be peaceful, restful, and holy?