Table of Contents
- The Lord Needs Me to Do His Work.
- I Can Serve the Lord with My Heart and Mind.
- The Lord Will Help Me Accomplish His Will.
- My small offerings can make a difference.
- The Lord can use small things to do great work.
- “Be strong and of a good courage, the Lord thy God is with Thee”
- If I Have Faith, I Can Do Whatever God Needs Me to Do.
- The Spirit Can Speak to Our Hearts and Help Us Know What God Would Have Us Do and Say.
- Jesus Christ Can Help Me Be Strong.
- I can help the work of God advance despite opposition.
- Heavenly Father Gives Me Spiritual Gifts to Help Do His Work.
- I can walk in the ways of God.
- Heavenly Father has blessed me with spiritual gifts. (Jr)
- I have spiritual gifts. (Sr)
- Ways to Serve
- Callings
- Song Ideas
The Lord Needs Me to Do His Work.
Friend January 2023 “Helping with Heavenly Father’s Work” Heavenly Father’s work is to help all His children to come back and live with Him (see Moses 1:39). You can help as you do four things: live, care, invite, and unite. (See lesson at link.)
D&C 4:2 See that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.
D&C 4:4 “For behold the field is white already to harvest;”
When he met Joseph Smith, David Whitmer was a young man dedicated to his work on the family farm. But the Lord had a different labor in mind for David—though in some ways it was a bit like farming. As you read Doctrine and Covenants 14:1–4, notice how the Lord compares His work to the kind of work David was familiar with.
Help the children understand the comparisons between working in a field and participating in God’s “great and marvelous work” (verse 1). For example, reaping a harvest can symbolize bringing souls to Christ. You could show a picture of a farmer, bring farmers’ clothes for the children to try on, or discuss everyday tasks that farmers perform. Explain that David Whitmer was a farmer who wanted to know how he could help the Lord. Read Doctrine and Covenants 14:3–4 to the children, and help them discover what the Lord told David Whitmer to do. How can we help in the Lord’s work?
John Whitmer and Peter Whitmer Jr. were David Whitmer’s brothers. Like David, they wanted to know how they could help the Lord. He asked them to help “bring souls unto” Him.
- Ask the children to describe something that is important or valuable to them (such as a toy, book, or game). Read Doctrine and Covenants 15:6 or 16:6, and ask the children to raise their hands when they hear what the Lord said is of “most worth.”
- With the children, make a list of ways they can help someone follow Jesus Christ, such as being friends to others, sharing the scriptures with a friend, or praying for someone in need.
Latter Day Kids “The Field is White” Includes lesson, song and activity ideas.
Bring tools (or pictures of tools) that someone might use to work in a field. How do these tools help us? Help the children find things in Doctrine and Covenants 4:5–6 that could be like tools for doing God’s work.
God Can Work Through Each of Us to Fulfill His Purposes.
The children of Israel multiply—They are placed in bondage by the Egyptians—Pharaoh seeks to destroy the sons born to Hebrew women.
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.
Old Testament Stories “Baby Moses” Illustrations and video
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. Many people helped fulfill God’s purposes by preserving the life of young Moses. How can you help the children you teach understand the vital role we all play in fulfilling God’s will
- Junior: Use this week’s activity page and “Baby Moses” (in Old Testament Stories) to tell the children how Jochebed (Moses’s mother), Miriam (his sister), and Pharaoh’s daughter cared for Moses. Emphasize that because of these and other faithful women, Moses was kept safe and would one day lead the children of Israel to safety. Invite the children to draw a picture of people who care for them
- Senior: Invite the children to share what they know about Moses when he was a baby. Use this week’s activity page and Exodus 1:22; 2:1–10 to summarize the story of Moses’s childhood. Read the scripture references on the activity page, and ask the children what each of the women did to preserve Moses’s life.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6” Several women played critical roles in God’s plan to raise up a deliverer for the Israelites. As a family, you could read about the midwives Shiphrah and Puah (Exodus 1:15–20); Moses’s mother, Jochebed, and his sister, Miriam (Exodus 2:2–9; Numbers 26:59); Pharaoh’s daughter (Exodus 2:5–6, 10); and Moses’s wife Zipporah (Exodus 2:16–21). How did these women further God’s plan?
Latter Day Kids “Baby Moses” Lesson Ideas
Friend March 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”
Lesson 18: The Birth and Calling of Moses,” Primary 6: Old Testament 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.)
Song: “‘Give,’ Said the Little Stream” (Children’s Songbook,236)
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.
I can be an instrument in God’s hands.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Esther” When Esther was fearful, Mordecai encouraged her by teaching her that perhaps the Lord had made her the queen “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). Ponder how the Lord is preparing the children you teach for their opportunities to bless others.
- Invite someone to play a song for the children on a musical instrument, or display a picture of someone playing an instrument. Talk about what it means to be an instrument in God’s hands. Review the story of Esther with the children (see “Queen Esther” in Old Testament Stories), and invite them to talk about how Esther was an instrument for the Lord to accomplish His purposes. How can we be instruments for the Lord?
- After reviewing the story of Esther, attach a card with the name of one of the characters from the story on the back of each child. Invite the children to try to find out whose name is on their backs by asking other children questions like “Was this person righteous?” or “Was this person a woman?” Then discuss how Mordecai and Esther were instruments for the Lord to save the Jews.
Liahona July 2022 “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ”
For Such a Time as This
Esther was courageous in approaching the king and saving her people.
- Sit in a circle and ask a family member to name a scripture hero who was courageous, stating one way in which the person showed courage (example: Esther, courage to speak).
- The next person in the circle says the name of the first hero and then chooses another person in the scriptures they think was courageous and explains why.
- Continue around the circle, naming each scripture character who has been selected and adding a new one. Keep playing until everyone in the family has had at least one turn.
Discussion: How can we be courageous in our time and in our specific circumstances? How can we bless the lives of others when we act courageously and do the right thing?
Poster: Bright Idea (November 2013 Friend)
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 17-22”
- To learn about being an instrument in God’s hands, as the sons of Mosiah were, you and your children could look at an instrument or tool and talk about what it’s used for. Then you could read Alma 17:11 and talk about what it means to be Heavenly Father’s instruments to help people learn about Jesus Christ.
Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon Chapter 17 Show the children a few tools or instruments used by builders, doctors, gardeners, painters, and so forth. Ask the children to tell what they know about each one, who uses it, and how it is used.
Friend July 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Instruments in God’s Hands” Ammon said to his brothers, “We have been made instruments in the hands of God to bring about this great work” (Alma 26:3). Gather objects you can use to make music. Then make up beats and songs. Just like we use instruments to make music, God can use us to help build Jesus Christ’s Church.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 What other tools do the children know of? Invite them to pretend to use a tool. Explain that just as we use instruments or tools to get things done, Heavenly Father can use us to do His work. Read Alma 17:11, and explain that Ammon and his brothers were Heavenly Father’s instruments to help the Lamanites learn the gospel. How can you be an instrument in God’s hands to bless others? President Thomas S. Monson said, “I always want the Lord to know that if He needs an errand run, Tom Monson will run that errand for Him” (“On the Lord’s Errand: The Life of Thomas S. Monson,”
I Can Help “Advance the Cause” of Jesus Christ.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”
In section 78, the Lord gave specific instructions to several Church leaders that would help them “advance the cause” of the Lord (verse 4). Help the children consider what their roles might be in advancing the Lord’s cause.
- Ask the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 78:4. What is the “cause” we “espoused” (accepted or chose to support) when we were baptized? Encourage them to look in scripture passages like these for possible answers: Mosiah 18:8–10; Doctrine and Covenants 20:37; Moses 1:39.
- Explain to the children that Newel K. Whitney owned a store and that the Lord asked him and other men to use some of their money to help pay for the Lord’s work (see Doctrine and Covenants 63:42–43). Invite them to read Doctrine and Covenants 78:3–7 and look for reasons these men were asked to do so. How would we have felt if we were asked to share like Newel did? Help them think of ways people contribute to the Lord’s work in our day, such as paying tithing and fast offerings, serving in callings, and so on.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 51–57”
- Hide the words “faithful,” “just,” and “wise” around the room. Invite the children to find the words in the room and then find them in Doctrine and Covenants 51:19. Read the verse together, and talk about what it means to be a steward. “A person who takes care of the affairs or property of another. That which a steward cares for is called a stewardship. All things on earth belong to the Lord; we are His stewards. We are accountable to the Lord.” (“Steward, Stewardship” in the Guide to the Scriptures).
- Tell the children about William W. Phelps, who was a newspaper publisher before hearing the gospel and moving to Kirtland. Ask the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 55:1–4 and list what God wanted William to do. Which of these things can apply to all of us, and which are specific to William because of his talents? Ask the children to identify talents they see in each other, and discuss how they can use those talents to serve God and His children.
How did the Lord use William Phelps’s abilities as a writer and printer? (for example, see the author index in the hymnbook for a list of hymns he wrote). Maybe family members could talk about the talents and abilities they see in each other. How can our talents contribute to God’s work? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 51–57”
Make a list of your talents! You could ask your friends and family for ideas too. How can you use the talents Heavenly Father gave you to help bless others? You may wish to read some of the below stories to see how others used their talents to help others.
I can choose to serve Jesus Christ.
Joshua recites how the Lord has blessed and led Israel—Joshua and all the people covenant to choose the Lord and serve Him only—Joshua and Eleazar die—The bones of Joseph, taken from Egypt, are buried in Shechem.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” Among Joshua’s final words to the Israelites was a plea to “choose … this day whom ye will serve.” Ponder how this counsel could also bless the children you teach.
- Ask the children to talk about some of the choices they have made today. Read to the children from Joshua 24:15: “Choose you this day whom ye will serve; … but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” How have the children chosen to serve the Lord today? What are some ways we can choose to serve Him every day?
- Sing a song about making good choices, such as “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). How do we feel when we choose to serve Jesus Christ? Invite the children to draw pictures of themselves doing something to serve the Lord. Share a story from your life or from a Church magazine about choosing to serve the Lord.
Latter Day Kids “Choose You This Day” Lesson ideas
- Invite the children to create a poster using some of the key words and phrases in Joshua 24:15. Let them share their posters and explain why they chose those words. How can we show God that we have chosen to serve Him?
- Invite the children to suggest situations in which they might have to decide to choose God over other things. Ask them to consider what they would do. Why is it important to “choose … this day” rather than waiting for the situation to arise? How will we be blessed when we make the right choice?
After reading this verse, family members could share experiences in which they chose to serve the Lord even though it was difficult. Why is it important to make the choice to serve Him “this day” instead of waiting to decide until a situation arises? How can we support members of our “house” as we strive to “serve the Lord”? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24”)
For additional teachings ideas see “Priorities“
Lesson 23: Joshua Leads Israel,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 101–5
To help the children choose to serve the Lord
I Can Serve the Lord with My Heart and Mind.
Doctrine and Covenants 64:33–34
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”
The Lord taught the Saints that to build Zion, they needed to give Him their hearts and willing minds. Consider how you will help the children begin to think about what this means for them.
- Read to the children from Doctrine and Covenants 64:34: “Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind.” Repeat this phrase a few times, pointing to your heart and head as you read those words, and invite the children to do the same. How can we give our hearts and minds to the Savior? (It might help to explain that our heart refers to our feelings and love and our mind refers to our thoughts.)
Friend June 2021 “One Peach at a Time” When Sister Eubanks was a child she went to a church farm to help pick peaches. Pretty soon she and her sister didn’t want to do it anymore because the peach fuzz was making their arms itch. Their mother explained that the peaches would be going to feed families who needed food. After that they stopped worrying about their itchy arms because they were helping to feed families who needed food! (They had a willing heart and mind.)
- Show the children some things that are made up of many small parts, like a puzzle or a rug. Help them think of other examples. Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 64:33. What does God want us to do to help Him accomplish His “great work”? What are the “small things” we can do that will help accomplish this work? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”
Friend June 2021 “Origami Hearts” Each fold could represent a small thing that brings about something great. If each fold isn’t done what happens? Write on the heart something your family or each individual could do to bring about Heavenly Father’s work?
What does Heavenly Father want your family to do to bring about His “great work”? Maybe it’s going to the temple, sharing the gospel with a neighbor, or overcoming contention. Perhaps each family member could collect small objects, like rocks or buttons or puzzle pieces, and use them to represent “small things” we can do every day to “[lay] the foundation” for God’s great work. As a family, pick one of these small things to work on this week. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”
- Ask the children to complete an action that requires two objects, but give them only one (for example, writing on the chalkboard without chalk or cutting a piece of paper with no scissors). Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 64:34 to find out what two things the Lord asks of us. Why do we need to give both our heart and mind to the Lord? How do we do this? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”
Latter Day Kids “Obedience” Lesson ideas
Friend February 2021 “For Older Kids” I know that obeying Heavenly Father is worth it because He always has a plan with good consequences in the end. I am grateful that Heavenly Father helps me do hard things. No matter how hard things get, I know I can always rely on Heavenly Father. Jayden T., age 10, New Mexico, USA (see photo)
- Sing a song about loving and following the Savior, such as “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75; especially verse 3). How do we show the Savior that we love Him? Share your feelings for Jesus Christ.
Friend September 2013 “I Will Serve God with All My Heart, Might, Mind, and Strength” Article includes a story of a child serving with her heart. It also describes what it means to serve with each of the following: heart, mind, and strength.
D&C 4:2 See that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.
“I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162) or
Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon Chapter 17 Show the children a few tools or instruments used by builders, doctors, gardeners, painters, and so forth. Ask the children to tell what they know about each one, who uses it, and how it is used.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 What other tools do the children know of? Invite them to pretend to use a tool. Explain that just as we use instruments or tools to get things done, Heavenly Father can use us to do His work. Read Alma 17:11, and explain that Ammon and his brothers were Heavenly Father’s instruments to help the Lamanites learn the gospel. How can you be an instrument in God’s hands to bless others? President Thomas S. Monson said, “I always want the Lord to know that if He needs an errand run, Tom Monson will run that errand for Him” (“On the Lord’s Errand: The Life of Thomas S. Monson,”
.Doctrine and Covenants 77:14.
This verse explains that John ate a book that represented his mission to gather Israel. What does the symbolism of eating suggest about how we should approach our role in gathering Israel or doing other things the Lord wants us to do? Here are some other scriptures in which eating is used to teach a spiritual truth: John 6:48–51; 2 Nephi 32:3; Moroni 4. Perhaps you could make a favorite family dish to eat together during this discussion.
I Can Give My Best Effort to the Lord.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”
- Invite each child to take a turn acting out how they would do an act of service, such as cleaning a room in the church or washing dishes at home. Read Doctrine and Covenants 75:3, and ask the children to show how they would do it lazily when you say “neither be idle” and show how to work hard when you say “but labor with your might.” Why is it important that we do our best when serving the Lord?
- Share with the children President Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s stories about work from “Two Principles for Any Economy” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, 55–58). How do we feel when we know we have done our best?
- Sing a song about working together, such as “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198). Help the children make up actions to go with the words. Or sing the song: “Let Us All Press On,” Hymns, no. 243.
I Can Help “Bear the Burden” of Doing the Lord’s Work.
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“
Story: It was hard for Moses to lead his people by himself. His wife’s father, Jethro, told Moses to let other people help “bear the burden” (Exodus 18:21–22).
Song: “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79)
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.
Anxiously Engaged in a Good Cause
Latter Day Kids “Anxiously Engaged in a Good Cause” Video, activities, and lesson ideas
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 58–59”
- Write phrases from Doctrine and Covenants 58:27–28 on strips of paper, and hand one to each child. Invite them to read the verses silently and ponder their phrase. Invite the children to sit in the order in which their phrases appear in verses 27–28 and share with each other what they learned. What is the Lord’s message to us in these verses?
Perhaps family members could make a list of some of the things they are “anxiously engaged” in. Are all of them “good cause[s]”? Why does the Lord want us to do “many things of [our] own free will”? Ask each family member to think of what they can do this week to “bring to pass much righteousness.” Later they can report on what they did. (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 58-59”)
- Sing a song about choices, such as “Choose the Right” (Hymns, no. 239). Ask questions to help the children ponder the words of the song—for example, Who helps guide you to make the right choice? Who tries to get you to make the wrong choice? How does choosing the right make you feel?
Cheerfully Serving
Friend June 2022 “For Older Kids”
The Lord Will Help Me Accomplish His Will.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6 Moses worried about whether he could deliver the Israelites from Egypt. But the Lord promised that He would help Moses. Help the children gain faith that the Savior will help them too.
- Tell the children about how the Lord gave Moses an important job to do. Read selected verses from Exodus 3, or read “Moses the Prophet” (in Old Testament Stories). Share how Moses felt (see Exodus 3:6, 11) and what the Lord told him (see verses 12 and 14). Invite the children to repeat with you the phrase “Certainly I will be with thee,” and share a time when the Lord was with you when you had something important to do for Him.
Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.
- Cut out paper hearts and write on them ways the Lord helps the children. Place the hearts facedown on the floor. Invite children to take turns choosing hearts, and help them read what is written on them.
- 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.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6 Moses felt inadequate for his calling, but the Lord promised He would be with Moses and help him. How might this account inspire the children you teach?
- Using the account in Exodus 3; 4:1–17, let the children take turns pretending to be Moses. If possible, bring props for them to use, such as a flashlight and a plant to represent the burning bush.
- Ask the children to read Exodus 3:11; 4:1, 10 and find out how Moses felt about asking Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. When have they had similar feelings? What advice would the children share with Moses to help him? Help them discover how the Lord encouraged Moses (see Exodus 3:12; 4:2–9, 11–12).
- Share an experience when you felt God was helping you fulfill a calling or serve Him in some way. Invite the children to share a time when the Lord helped them.
Friend November 2019 “The Primary Talk” Dennis was afraid to give a talk in Primary. 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.
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.
The Lord gave Moses power to perform three miracles as signs to show the children of Israel that He had sent Moses. What do these signs teach us about Jesus Christ?
Friend June 2022 “Moira’s First Talk” President Scott asked Moira to give a talk in district conference. Moira was only 12 and she was a new member of the church. She wasn’t sure if she could do it but she said she would try. She knew Heavenly Father would help her.
My small offerings can make a difference.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 5–6” It was a young boy who provided the bread and fish that Jesus used to feed the five thousand. How can you help the children you teach see how they can contribute to the work of the Lord?
Help the children imagine how large a crowd of five thousand people would be. What would it be like to feed that many people with only five loaves of bread and two fish?
New Testament Student Manual The Greek text of Mark 6:44 makes clear that the phrase “five thousand men” meant five thousand males. Matthew 14:21 makes this unmistakable by adding the statement “beside women and children.”
Friend March 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities: More Than Enough”
Story: Once Jesus Christ spent all day teaching people. Everyone was hungry. But they only had five loaves of bread and two fish. Jesus blessed the bread and fish, and the disciples shared it with the people. There was enough food for more than 5,000 people! (See Matthew 14:15–21).
Song: “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79)
Activity: Make your favorite bread recipe, or try the one on page 8. Notice how something as small as yeast makes the whole loaf of bread bigger. How has Jesus made your small efforts big?
Invite a child to tell the story of the feeding of the five thousand in his or her own words. Emphasize that it was a young boy who provided the bread and fish that the Lord used to perform this miracle. How can we be like the boy described in John 6:9? Invite the children to draw loaves and fish on paper and write on them some things they can give to the Lord to help in His work.
New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) Because of Jesus Christ your humble offerings will be enough. When we offer the Savior all that we have, He can multiply our efforts to accomplish His purposes.
Have you ever felt your talents and gifts were too small for the task ahead? I have. But you and I can give what we have to Christ, and He will multiply our efforts. What you have to offer is more than enough—even with your human frailties and weaknesses—if you rely on the grace of God.
(Michelle D. Craig, “Divine Discontent,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 54)
What are different ways we can “give what we have to Christ”?
Friend January 2023 “Helping with Heavenly Father’s Work” Heavenly Father’s work is to help all His children to come back and live with Him (see Moses 1:39). You can help as you do four things: live, care, invite, and unite. (See lesson at link.)
Giving Talks, Singing, Playing Instruments, Help Clean the Church
Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.
Friend June 2018 “A Baptism Song” Elizabeth and her sister sang at a baptism which helped those attending to feel the Spirit.
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Friend December 2018 “Ellie Helps Clean the Church” Ellie’s family goes to clean the church and she wonders how she can help. Also includes a matching activity:
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!
[unitegallery Dece2018]
Give the children a small puzzle to complete. What would happen if one of the pieces of the puzzle were missing? Explain that we are each like a puzzle piece—we are all important, and we all need each other. Help the children name reasons they are important in their families, their Primary class, God’s family, and other groups.
The Lord can use small things to do great work.
Israel is in bondage to the Midianites—An angel appears to Gideon and calls him to deliver Israel—He overthrows the altar of Baal, the Spirit of the Lord rests upon him, and the Lord gives him a sign to show he is called to deliver Israel.
Gideon showed great courage in obeying the Lord, even though his actions were not popular. What has the Lord asked us to do that others might not agree with? How can the Lord’s words to Gideon in verses 13–16 inspire us to do the right thing?(Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16”)
Gideon’s army is reduced to 300—They frighten the Midianite armies with trumpets and lights—The Midianites fight among themselves, flee, and are defeated by Israel.
Old Testament Stories “The Army of Gideon”
Gideon considered himself poor and insignificant, but God saw him as a “mighty man of valour” (Judges 6:12). Help the children see that even if they feel small, God can work through them to do important things (see Alma 37:6–7).
- Tell the children that the Lord needed someone to help Him save Israel from their enemies, the Midianites, and He chose Gideon. Read Judges 6:15 to the children, and ask them why Gideon didn’t feel he could do what the Lord wanted. Read verse 16, and ask them who the Lord said would help Gideon. Tell the children about a time when the Lord asked you to do something difficult to serve Him and you felt He was with you.
Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.
See also “The Lord will help me accomplish his will”
- Display pictures of children or youth doing great things in the service of God (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 19, 23, 90, 102), or tell about examples you have seen. Help the children think of ways they can participate in God’s work, and invite them to draw pictures of themselves doing these things.
- Ask the children to imagine that they needed to gather an army together to go to battle. How many people would they want in their army? Using Judges 7:4–7, invite the children to act out how the Lord helped Gideon choose the army that would deliver Israel from the Midianites. Why did the Lord want Gideon’s army to be so small? (see Judges 7:2). Why might following the Lord’s command have been hard for Gideon and his army? Invite the children to share experiences when they learned to trust the Lord even though doing so was hard.
Friend October 2001 “Gordon B. Hinckley Faces “Pharaoh”
- Use this week’s activity page to teach the children about how the Lord made Israel’s army smaller so the Israelites would know that His power had saved them from their enemies. Share examples of small things that do a great work, such as bees gathering nectar to make honey. Bear your testimony that God can help us do a great work, even when we feel small.
- Invite the children to draw pictures of a sword, shield, trumpet, lamp, and pitcher. Ask the children which of these objects they would take with them into a battle. Invite them to read Judges 7:16 to learn what Gideon’s army took with them. Why would it have taken courage to do this? Read together Judges 7:19–21 to learn how the army used the trumpets and pitchers to defeat the Midianites. What do we learn about the Lord from this story?
Could you use a role play or other creative activity to help your family learn from the experience of Gideon’s army described in this chapter? How can the Lord’s words in this chapter (see, for example, verses 2 and 15) apply to our lives?(Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16”)
“Lesson 24: Gideon,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 106–9
Have the children stand while you give them instructions such as turn around, raise your right hand, and so forth. Have the children list some of the specific instructions Gideon was given (see Judges 6:25–26 and Judges 7:3–6). Explain that because Gideon followed these instructions exactly, he and his army were successful. Point out that sometimes we are asked to do things that may not seem important or even make sense to us at the time. If we are given specific directions by Church leaders or parents acting in righteousness, we need to be obedient and have faith that what we are asked to do is important and right.
Gideon pursues and destroys the Midianites—He frees the children of Israel but refuses their invitation to reign as king over them—Gideon dies, and Israel returns to idolatry.
“Be strong and of a good courage, the Lord thy God is with Thee”
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” After Joshua became the leader of the Israelites, the Lord encouraged him by saying, “Be strong and of a good courage” (Joshua 1:6). What can the children learn from Joshua about how to be strong and courageous for Christ?
- Invite the children to find the phrase that is repeated in Joshua 1:6, 9, and 18, and write it on the board (see also verse 7). Help the children think of reasons we might need this message, just as Joshua did. Review as a class some of the stories in Joshua 1–4; 6 (see also “Joshua the Prophet” and “Rahab and the Spies” in Old Testament Stories), and ask the children to identify how the people in these stories showed courage and strength.
Old Testament Stories “Joshua the Prophet”
Friend May 2022 “Joshua’s Courage”
Old Testament Stories “Rahab and the Spies”
- Invite the children to talk about someone they know who is strong and courageous for Jesus Christ. Encourage them to write down something they would like to do to be stronger and more courageous for Christ.
Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Have Courage and Serve God” Lesson ideas
If I Have Faith, I Can Do Whatever God Needs Me to Do.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”
Children who have faith in Jesus Christ and confidence in His power can accomplish great things when they are serving Him.
- Read Moroni 7:33, and invite the children to stand up when they hear the word “faith.” Explain that we show our faith in Jesus Christ when we keep His commandments. Help the children make a list on the board of some things Jesus wants them to do, like obeying their parents or telling the truth. Testify that our faith in Jesus Christ can help us keep the commandments.
- Display a few pictures that show someone from the Book of Mormon (or other books of scripture) accomplishing something important because he or she had faith in Jesus Christ (see, for example, Gospel Art Book, nos. 19, 70, 78, 81). Help the children tell the story portrayed in the picture. Tell them that because these people had faith in Jesus Christ, they were given power to do what He needed them to do.
Friend May 2021 “Pioneers in Every Land: Sam Beazley” Sam had problems with his hands, but he tried to always serve and help do the work of the Lord. He had faith the Lord would help him do the work. Sam was called to serve as a Labour Missionary building a church school for teenagers. His labor also helped build the Hamilton New Zealand Temple which he later was called to serve in.
The Spirit Can Speak to Our Hearts and Help Us Know What God Would Have Us Do and Say.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 13–16: Glad Tidings of Great Joy”
Ask the children how Samuel knew what to say when he was preaching from the city wall. Invite them to search Helaman 13:2–4 for an answer. Tell about a time when the Holy Ghost helped you know in your heart what God wanted you to do or say. Ask the children to share any similar experiences they have had.
When Samuel the Lamanite was commanded to preach to the Nephites, Heavenly Father helped him know in his heart what he should say.
Teach the children that while we speak to each other using words, the Holy Ghost can communicate through feelings in our hearts. Invite them to hold their hands over their hearts each time you read the word “heart” in Helaman 13:2–5. Help them decorate heart-shaped pieces of paper that say, “The Spirit speaks to me in my heart.”
The Holy Ghost helps them know what Heavenly Father wants them to do and say.
Samuel anoints Saul to be captain over the Lord’s inheritance—Samuel manifests the gift of seership—Saul prophesies among the prophets, and the Lord gives him a new heart—He is chosen king at Mizpeh.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “1 Samuel 8–10; 13; 15–18” When have we seen God bless someone with spiritual power to fulfill an assignment or calling like He blessed Saul? What experiences can we share when “God gave [us] another heart” or “the Spirit of God came upon [us]” in His service? (verses 9–10).
Friend January 2021 “The Bread Loaf Prayer” Carver and his family decide to practice listening for the Holy Ghost. Carver’s mom bakes some bread and each person prays to know who to take it to. Carver thought of Sister Smith and he even listened and said the words to her that popped into his mind when he gave her the bread. He knew it was from the Holy Ghost.
Jesus Christ Can Help Me Be Strong.
As children get older, they become more aware of their weaknesses. Use these verses to teach them how the Savior can make “weak things become strong” (Ether 12:27).
- Describe for the children a task that would require a lot of physical strength to accomplish. Invite them to share examples of things they aren’t strong enough to do now. How could we become strong enough to accomplish these tasks? Explain that we also have spiritual work to do, but we sometimes feel spiritually weak. Moroni felt this way about his writings on the plates (Ether 12:23–25). Read Ether 12:27 to the children. What did the Lord promise those who feel weak?
- Share an experience in which the Savior helped you or someone you know do something that was hard. Testify to the children that if they seek His help, Jesus can help them be strong, even when they feel weak.
- Invite the children to draw a picture of something weak and something strong. Then invite them to add to their drawing some words and phrases from Ether 12:23–29 that teach them about how the Savior can help us turn our weakness into strength. Encourage the children to think about a weakness they might have and then seek the Savior’s help to become strong.
Why does the Lord give us weakness? What is our part in making “weak things become strong”? What is the Savior’s part?
“Weak Things Stronger.” In this Friend article, Parker learns that he doesn’t have to be perfect and that the Savior is there to help him.
Remember that previously (approximately 90 years earlier), the Persian king Cyrus had allowed many Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple and establish a community there. The city, which at that time was without walls, was unsafe to live in. The people were in “great affliction” (verse 3), and the temple was in danger of being destroyed again.
I can help the work of God advance despite opposition.
The Samaritans offer help, then hinder the work—The building of the temple and of the walls of Jerusalem ceases.
Lesson 107: Ezra,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018)
When the 50,000 Jews returned to Jerusalem, they encountered a group of people living nearby called Samaritans. The Samaritans were the “people who lived in Samaria after the northern kingdom of Israel was captured by the Assyrians. The Samaritans were partly Israelite and partly Gentile. Their religion was a mixture of Jewish and pagan beliefs and practices” (Guide to the Scriptures, “Samaritans,” scriptures.lds.org).
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8” The Lord’s work rarely goes unopposed, and this was certainly true of the efforts led by Zerubbabel and Nehemiah. In both cases, the “adversaries of Judah” (Ezra 4:1) were Samaritans—descendants of Israelites who had mixed with the Gentiles. Reading about their opposition to building the temple (see Ezra 4–6) might lead you to ponder the opposition [you may face as you stand for the right.]
. According to verses 1–2, what did the Samaritans want to do?
- Stop the Jews from building the temple
- Build a different kind of temple
- Help the Jews build the temple
2. What did Zerubbabel and the other Jewish leaders tell the Samaritans?
- The Jews would build the temple themselves.
- The Jews would be happy to have the Samaritans’ help.
- The Samaritans must wait until the next year to help them.
3. How did the Samaritans respond when Zerubbabel and the other Jewish leaders rejected their offer?
- They went away and left the Jews alone.
- They discouraged the Jews from building the temple and created opposition.
- They gave the Jews supplies for the building of the temple.
As a result of the Samaritans’ opposition, the temple’s construction stopped for several years (see Ezra 4:1–24; Haggai 1:2–6).
Our spiritual progress may halt if we don’t choose the right or if we listen to the opposition and give in.
Friend February 2020 “Matt & Mandy” When some kids find a wallet, Matt and his friend stand for the right by telling a boy, who wants to keep the money, that they need to return the wallet to its owner.
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.
Haggai and Zechariah prophesy—Zerubbabel renews the building of the temple—The Samaritans challenge the Jews’ right to continue their building work.
Lesson 107: Ezra,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018) We read in Ezra 5:1–2 that some of the Jews began to rebuild the temple again. When local Persian-appointed governors learned that the Jews had resumed building the temple, they questioned the Jews’ authority to do so and looked for ways to stop the construction.
Read Ezra 5:5, looking for why the local governors could not stop the Jews from rebuilding the temple.
What principle can we identify from the Jews’ experience of rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem?
One principle we can identify from Ezra 5:5 is that God watches over and helps us as we seek to obey Him.
Friend July 2022 “Stand for What You Believe”David stood for what he believed. He wasn’t alone. God’s power was with him. He beat Goliath. God will help us even when we face Goliath-sized challenges.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8” When Nehemiah was repairing the walls surrounding Jerusalem, his enemies tried to get him to stop, but he remained faithful to his task. What are some important things the Lord wants the children to do, and how can you inspire them to be faithful to that work?
- Share with the children the story of Nehemiah (see Nehemiah 2:17–20; 6:1–9; Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2009, 59–62). Tell the children what Nehemiah said when people made fun of him for wanting to fix Jerusalem’s walls: “The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build” (Nehemiah 2:20). Invite the children to stand up and pretend to help fix the walls of Jerusalem.
- Bring some blocks to class, and let the children use them to help you build a wall (or draw a wall on the board). Help the children think of some important things Heavenly Father might ask them to do, like learning how to read the scriptures. With each idea they share, invite them to add a block to the wall. Explain that when Nehemiah was doing his important work of fixing Jerusalem’s walls, people tried to stop him. Read Nehemiah 6:9, and invite the children to raise their hands when you read “strengthen my hands.” Tell the children about a time when you felt God strengthen your hands to do His work.
Nehemiah 2; 4; 6
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8” The Lord has an important work for the children you teach. What can they learn from Nehemiah about persevering in that work even when they face opposition?
- Review with the children the story about Nehemiah repairing the walls surrounding Jerusalem, including the opposition he faced. Read together Nehemiah 2:19, and ask the children to share situations in which someone might laugh at us for doing the right thing. According to Nehemiah 2:20, how did Nehemiah respond? How can we respond when people make fun of us or criticize us for doing the right thing?
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.
- Read together Nehemiah 6:1–9. How did Nehemiah’s enemies repeatedly try to get him to stop working on the wall, and how did he respond? What work does God want us to do? (see, for example, Mosiah 18:8–10). How can we follow Nehemiah’s example in verse 9 when it’s difficult to do what God has asked us to do?
Describe how you can apply the phrase “I am doing a great work and cannot come down” (see Nehemiah 6:3) when you face opposition in doing God’s will.
Heavenly Father Gives Me Spiritual Gifts to Help Do His Work.
I can walk in the ways of God.
Solomon loves the Lord and keeps His commandments—The Lord appears to Solomon and promises him a wise and an understanding heart—He judges between two harlots and determines who is the mother of a child.
“Lesson 31: The Wisdom of King Solomon,” Primary 6: Old Testament Lesson includes great questions and lesson and story ideas
Attention Activity
Ask the children to name things they would ask for if they knew they could ask Heavenly Father for anything and he would give it to them. Write the children’s ideas on the chalkboard.
Show the children some waterproof items that could represent worldly goods, such as a piece of jewelry, a coin, a pretty rock, and so on. Put the items in a large pitcher or container as you talk about them and discuss how some people spend most of their efforts accumulating material goods. Then add some water to the container to represent good deeds or spiritual gifts as you discuss the kind deeds we can do and the spiritual gifts we can develop, such as helping a family member or friend, gaining a testimony, being honest, or having an understanding heart. Pour the contents of the container through a strainer into another container. Explain that the first container represents someone’s life, the strainer represents death, and the second container represents life after death. Discuss how we cannot take material goods with us when we die, but we do take with us the spiritual gifts we have developed and the good deeds we have done.
Ask the children which of the items on the chalkboard represent things that could last forever and if they would like to change anything they named before. Tell the children that they are going to learn about someone who was able to ask God for one thing, and he chose an eternal, spiritual gift instead of a temporary, earthly one.
Write knowledge, wisdom, and an understanding heart on the chalkboard. Discuss the meaning of each one. Explain that knowledge is learning gained through study or experience; wisdom is using what we have learned in the best way to make right choices; and an understanding heart enables us to know how others feel.
Have the children find the book of Proverbs in their Bibles. Explain that most of these proverbs (wise sayings) were written by Solomon, and because of his great wisdom, these sayings can help us today. (See the lesson link for a list of some of the wise sayings found in Proverbs.)
Two Women, One Baby
Moroni described the gifts that God gives to His children when they have faith in Him.
Write the numbers 9 through 16 on separate pieces of paper, and wrap each paper like a gift. Let the children take turns unwrapping the gifts. (or put all the papers in one gift box and let the children take turns picking a paper from the box) As they do, read together verses from Moroni 10:9–16 that correspond with the numbers, and help the children identify each spiritual gift. Explain that these are gifts Heavenly Father gives His children so we can help each other and do His work.
Tell the children about spiritual gifts you have noticed that Heavenly Father has given them, such as the gifts of faith, wisdom, testimony, kindness, and the ability to learn. Let the children talk briefly about favorite gifts they have received.
Ensign December 2020 “Family Study Fun”
Use this activity to talk more about Moroni 10:18 (“every good gift cometh of Christ”).
- Ahead of time, wrap a Book of Mormon with many layers of wrapping paper or colored cellophane. Tell your family you’ll share clues about what’s inside this gift.
- As you share each clue (for example, “This teaches us about Jesus Christ”), invite a family member to take off a layer of paper and guess what’s inside.
- If someone guesses correctly, continue unwrapping and take turns sharing truths about the Book of Mormon.
Discussion: Once the book is unwrapped, end by reading Moroni 10:18 together. What can your family do to share the gift of the gospel with others?
Ensign December 2020 “How Can I Seek Spiritual Gifts”
Friend March 2017 “What Are Your Spiritual Gifts?” This activity from the Friend can help family members learn about their own spiritual gifts.
Scripture Stories Coloring Book: Pearl of Great Price “7th Article of Faith: Spiritual Gifts” Match each picture to its spiritual gift.
Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 20: Gifts of the Spirit” Images and video
(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 46–48”) If possible, show objects or pictures that represent each gift. Pause occasionally to ask the children how these gifts could bless someone.
Write on pieces of paper some of the spiritual gifts found in Doctrine and Covenants 46:13–26 and Articles of Faith 1:7, and hide them around the room. Invite each child to find one of the papers and search the verses to find where that gift is mentioned in the scriptures. Then read together Doctrine and Covenants 46:8–9, 12. Why does Heavenly Father give us spiritual gifts?
Friend May 2021 “What Are Your Gifts?” Spiritual gifts are blessings or abilities that God has given to each of His children.
Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Gifts of the Spirit”
Friend May 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Read Doctrine and Covenants 46:11. Then help your little ones fill in the blank: “I am good at …” Help them recognize their talents and spiritual gifts.
Latter Day Kids “Spiritual Gifts” Videos and lesson ideas
Heavenly Father Gives Me Spiritual Gifts to Bless Others.
Ponder what your spiritual gifts are—and how you can use them “for the benefit of the children of God” (verse 26).
Give a child something that can be shared, like a piece of bread or two toys. Ask the child to share what you have given him or her with another class member. Explain that Heavenly Father gives us gifts, and He wants us to use them to help others. Tell the children about a time when you were blessed because someone shared his or her spiritual gifts.
Help the children list on the board the gifts of the Spirit mentioned in Doctrine and Covenants 46. As each gift is listed, talk about how that gift can be used to bless others. The descriptions in “Chapter 20: Gifts of the Spirit” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 77–80) can help. Tell the children that they each have spiritual gifts. Encourage them to ask Heavenly Father to help them recognize their gifts and how they can use them to help others. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 46–48”)
Elder Robert D. Hales: “These gifts are given to those who are faithful to Christ. They will help us know and teach the truths of the gospel. They will help us bless others. They will guide us back to our Heavenly Father” (“Gifts of the Spirit,” Ensign, Feb. 2002, 16).
Ponder why it is important that you “always [remember] for what they are given” (verse 8). How can these truths help you “not be deceived”? (verse 8).
See also Gospel Topics, “Spiritual Gifts,” topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
Doctrine and Covenants 82:18–19
18 And all this for the benefit of the church of the living God, that every man may improve upon his talent, that every man may gain other talents, yea, even an hundred fold, to be cast into the Lord’s storehouse, to become the common property of the whole church—
19 Every man seeking the interest of his neighbor, and doing all things with an eye single to the glory of God.
What can each family member do to “improve upon his [or her] talent” and “gain other talents”? It might be fun to have a family talent show. Think of ways to include talents that aren’t easily displayed (such as spiritual gifts; see Doctrine and Covenants 46:11–26). How can we use our talents and share the things we have to bless our family and neighbors? What does it mean to use our talents “with an eye single to the glory of God”? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 ” Doctrine and Covenants 81–83″)
Heavenly Father has blessed me with spiritual gifts. (Jr)
Ask the children to draw a picture of a favorite gift they have received. Explain that Heavenly Father gives us spiritual gifts to strengthen our faith and help us bless others. Share with the children some of the spiritual gifts described in 1 Corinthians 12:7–11. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )
Write a note for each child, describing a spiritual gift you have seen in him or her (or you could invite parents to write these notes). Put the notes in envelopes. Allow the children to open the envelopes, and help them read about their spiritual gifts. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” ).
Cut out cards. Give one card to each parent to fill out. The name of the child goes on the top line.
Easy, Peasy, and Fun “Printable Gift Box”
Semigloss Design “Gift Card Holder Template – Free Printable Template”
Friend March 2017 “What Are Your Spiritual Gifts?” This activity from the Friend can help family members learn about their own spiritual gifts.
I have spiritual gifts. (Sr)
1 Corinthians 12:4, 7–12, 31; 13:1–8
Ask the children to write on the board the spiritual gifts they find in 1 Corinthians 12:7–11; 13:2. Invite them to find any additional gifts mentioned in Moroni 10:8–18 and Doctrine and Covenants 46:13–26.
See Gospel Principles “Chapter 22: The Gifts of the Spirit” for a description of the different gifts and ideas on how they could be used.
,
The Red Crystal has black and white copies that the children could fill out.
“Write the gifts named in Moroni 10:9-16 on strips of paper, and put them in a gift box. Write the numbers 9 through 16 on the board, and invite the children to take turns picking a paper from the box and matching it to the verse number on the board. What do we learn about these gifts from verses 8 and 17-18?”
(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 46–48”) If possible, show objects or pictures that represent each gift. Pause occasionally to ask the children how these gifts could bless someone.
Share with them some additional spiritual gifts mentioned by Elder Marvin J. Ashton: “The gift of asking; the gift of listening; … the gift of avoiding contention; … the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; … the gift of caring for others; … the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony” (“There Are Many Gifts,” Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20). Invite the children to talk about the spiritual gifts they see in each other. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )
After reading these verses together, consider giving everyone a piece of paper with the name of another family member (or classmate) at the top. Ask everyone to list the spiritual gifts they notice that person has. You could then pass the papers in a circle until everyone has had a chance to write about each family member’s gifts. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8-13”
Before class, ask the parents of the children in your class about the gifts they see in their children, or think about the children’s gifts yourself. Tell the children about these gifts. Invite the children to write down one way they will use their gifts to bless someone this week. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )
One truth you might recognize is that the Lord gives each member of His Church at least one spiritual gift to bless others with. New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “1 Corinthians 12”
Friend March 2017 “What Are Your Spiritual Gifts?” This activity from the Friend can help family members learn about their own spiritual gifts.
Cut out cards. Give one card to each parent to fill out. The name of the child goes on the top line.
Could put the card in one of the below boxes or envelopes.
Easy, Peasy, and Fun “Printable Gift Box”
Semigloss Design “Gift Card Holder Template – Free Printable Template”
Share different situations in which people could use a spiritual gift from 1 Corinthians 12:7–10. Invite the children to identify the spiritual gifts that could be used in each situation. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )
See Gospel Principles “Chapter 22: The Gifts of the Spirit” for description of the different gifts and ideas on how they would be used.
Friend December 2006 “The Gifts and Fruits of the Spirit” When a child finds one of the words have them tell how they could use that gift.
God has given me gifts to help with His work.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19” Young children have gifts that they can use to contribute to the Lord’s work on earth. How can you help the children feel a desire to share what the Lord has given to them?
- Read Exodus 36:1 to the children, and ask them to listen for what the Lord gave to Bezaleel and Aholiab to help them build the “sanctuary” (tabernacle). Tell each child about a gift he or she has (it might help to ask their parents). Testify that God has “put” gifts into each of His children.
Friend March 2017 “What Are Your Spiritual Gifts?” This activity from the Friend can help family members learn about their own spiritual gifts.
Friend May 2021 “What Are Your Gifts?” Spiritual gifts are blessings or abilities that God has given to each of His children.
- Tell the children why you want to help with the Lord’s work. Help them think of ways they can participate too (such as learning about an ancestor, telling someone about Jesus, or serving a family member). Write their ideas on slips of paper, put them in a container, and invite each child to choose one and act out the action on the slip of paper.
For additional teaching ideas see Church Service
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19”Every one of Heavenly Father’s children has something to contribute to His work. The children you teach may need your help to recognize how they can use their gifts to help in God’s work.
- Display a picture of the tabernacle (see this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Ask the children what materials might have been needed in order to build the tabernacle. Read with the children Exodus 35:20–29, and ask them to look for how the needed materials were provided. Testify that each of the children has something to contribute to the work of the Lord.
Old Testament Coloring Book “The Tabernacle”
- Ask the children to read Exodus 36:1 to find out what the Lord gave to those who were called to help build the tabernacle. Invite the children to share what they feel the Lord has given them to help build His kingdom (offer suggestions if needed). How can we use these things to bless others?
Bezaleel makes the ark, the mercy seat, and the cherubims—He makes the table, the vessels, the candlestick, the incense altar, the holy anointing oil, and the sweet incense.
Bezaleel and others make the altar of burnt offerings and all things pertaining to the tabernacle—Offerings are made by 603,550 men.
Ways to Serve
Friend June 2024 “I Can Serve at Church”
Keeping Church Clean
Friend December 2018 “Ellie Helps Clean the Church” Ellie’s family goes to clean the church and she wonders how she can help. Also includes a matching activity:
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!
[unitegallery Dece2018]
Keeping Church Grounds Beautiful
Friend July 2021 “Tomoshi’s Favorite Job” Tomoshi and his mother water the flowers at the church building twice a week. They ride their bike there and see lots of wonderful things on the way. He is glad he gets to serve Heavenly Father by helping water the flowers.
Passing Sacrament
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!
Ministering
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.)
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.
Singing
Friend June 2018 “A Baptism Song” Elizabeth and her sister sang at a baptism which helped those attending to feel the Spirit.
Playing Piano or Other Instruments
Friend March 2020 “Ludovic’s Piano” Ludovic learns to play hymns by ear and plays for his branch during sacrament meeting.
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.
Leading Music
Friend April 2023 “Leading Like Jesus” Julie was asked to conduct the hymns in sacrament meeting, and she was very anxious. After talking to her father about her fears, she thought about how being a conductor is like Jesus Christ because he is our leader and he guides us in the right way and at the right time. She then became excited to conduct because she would represent Christ.
Giving Talks
Friend May 2018 “Spirit of Eliza” Eliza loved family history. But could she talk about it in front of everyone at church?
Friend June 2022 “Moira’s First Talk” President Scott asked Moira to give a talk in district conference. Moira was only 12 and she was a new member of the church. She wasn’t sure if she could do it but she said she would try. She knew Heavenly Father would help her.
Serve in Temples
Friend May 2021 “Conference Notes”
Missions and Volunteer Work
Friend June 2021 “Ana Cumandá Rivera” Ana taught her companion how to read while on her mission. After her mission, Ana wanted to continue to serve. She was invited to teach others how to read.
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.
Serving at Bishop’s Storehouse
Friend June 2024 “Serving at the Storehouse” Dominic and his mother help fill an order at the Bishop’s Storehouse. His mother explains that when we pay a fast offering the money helps buy food for those that need help. That is a way all the members of the Church help each other, so none go hungry.
Callings
Those who serve in the Church are called by God.
Saul, the son of Kish, a Benjamite, is a choice and goodly person—He is sent to seek his father’s asses—The Lord reveals to Samuel the seer that Saul is to be king—Saul goes to Samuel and is entertained by him.).
1 Samuel 8:6; 9:15–17; 10:1–24; 16:1–13
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “1 Samuel 8–10; 13; 15–18” The accounts of God choosing Saul and David to be kings can help your class understand how people are called to serve in the Church today. These accounts can build faith that callings come from God through His authorized servants.
- On separate strips of paper, write the following statements and scriptures: the people wanted a king (1 Samuel 8:6); the Lord told Samuel that Saul would be king (1 Samuel 9:15–17); Samuel anointed Saul (1 Samuel 10:1); Samuel presented Saul to the people (1 Samuel 10:24). Ask the children to read the scripture passages and put them in the correct order.
- Learn together the fifth article of faith. Briefly tell the children how you received your calling to teach in Primary. How do you know that you were called of God? Testify that God inspires leaders to call people to serve.
“Article of Faith 5” (May 2011 Friend) Number pictures relating to how a person receives a calling in the right order.
What is common consent?
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021″Doctrine and Covenants 23–26″ and Liahona March 2021 “What does “common consent” mean in the Church?”
When members receive callings or priesthood ordinations in the Church, we have the opportunity to formally sustain them by raising our right hands as a show of support. The principle of demonstrating public support and agreement is called common consent. As President Gordon B. Hinckley taught, “The procedure of sustaining is much more than a ritualistic raising of the hand. It is a commitment to uphold, to support, to assist those who have been selected” (“This Work Is Concerned with People,” Ensign, May 1995, 51).
Sustaining is a chance to show and give our support and to acknowledge the will of God.
Releases
Friend April 2018 “Bugs for Brother Baugh” Lizbethis upset when she hears that Brother Baugh is being released from the Bishopric, but she learns that Brother Baugh will still be at church and still love her. He will also still want to see her bug pictures that she draws for him.
Friend May 2018 “What’s on Your Mind” Ways to help with Heavenly Father’s work and make a difference in the world even when we are young.
Youth Callings
Family History
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.
Song Ideas
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.