Old Testament Stories & Lesson Ideas

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Old Testament

Friend February 2026 “Old Testament Timeline” Color in each part of this Old Testament timeline. How does God show His love for His children in these stories?

Who is Jehovah?

Exodus 6:3

Jehovah is one of the names of Jesus Christ and refers to the premortal Savior. The Joseph Smith Translation clarifies that the prophets Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob knew the Lord by this name (see Exodus 6:3, footnote c). Usually, when the phrase “the Lord” appears in the Old Testament, it refers to Jehovah. In Exodus 3:13–15, the title “I AM” is also a reference to Jehovah (see also Doctrine and Covenants 38:139:1).

Premortal Life

Lesson 1: Heavenly Father’s Plan for Us,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 1–5 To help the children understand that they are spirit children of Heavenly Father and that he has a plan that will help them become like him and return to live with him again.

Lesson 2: Jesus Christ Was Chosen to Be Our Savior,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 6–8 Purpose:
To help the children understand the importance of using their agency to choose and act for themselves.

Creation

(See this link for Creation items.)

Adam and Eve

Friend February 2018 “Adam and Eve”

Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament(1996), 13–1 To help the children understand the fall of Adam and Eve and to have a desire to return to the presence of Heavenly Father.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5”

Because of the Book of Mormon and other latter-day revelations, we have a unique perspective on the Fall. For example, consider what the prophet Lehi taught his family about Adam and Eve in 2 Nephi 2:15–27. How do Lehi’s teachings clarify what happened in the Garden of Eden and help us understand why it was important?

Article of Faith 2

Memorizing Tip: Adam and Eve were the first two people to live on the earth, and Article of Faith 2 is about Adam.

To transgress means to break a law or commandment. In the Garden of Eden, God told Adam and Eve not to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, but they ate it anyway. We are each responsible for our own decisions. We can’t be punished for someone else’s sins.  (Friend Jan 2015)

Friend Feb 2011

Friend Feb 2011

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “2 Nephi 1-5” Make a booklet about the ways we are like Adam and Eve, such as we have agency

See also Teaching Children the Gospel “2nd Article of Faith”

Friend January 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Gospel Art Picture: “Adam and Eve Kneeling at an Altar”

For the Strength of Youth January 2026 “The Fall: Adam and Eve”

Adam and Eve’s Family

Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve’s Family” Images and Video

Friend February 2018 ”Adam and Eve Taught their Family” Link also includes info about Adam and Eve and how we can be like them.

Coloring Page: “Adam and Eve Teach Their Children” (Feb. 2010 Friend)

Gospel Media “Adam and Eve Teaching Their Children”

Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures” Free to Choose” Lesson ideas

Lesson 5: Adam and Eve and Their Family Offered Sacrifices,” Primary 6: Old Testament , Page 18–22 To help the children want to always remember Jesus Christ.

Lesson 6: Adam and Eve Lived the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” Primary 6: Old Testament, Pages 23–26 To help the children understand that the gospel of Jesus Christ is eternal and is based on truths that will help us gain exaltation.

Gospel Media “Adam and Eve”

Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament  

Ask the children to think of opposites—such as happy and sad, hot and cold, hard and soft, smooth and rough, heavy and light, high and low, or fast and slow—to illustrate the importance of opposition (see 2 Nephi 2:11, 15). Let the children describe their experiences with opposites. To help them get started, you might use the following examples: After someone has been sick, they can better appreciate feeling well. Or without darkness, you cannot recognize light, which is why you cannot see the stars during the day. To illustrate this second example, you might bring a flashlight and show how its light is barely noticeable in a well-lit room, but the light is much brighter when you darken the room.

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal

Enoch

  • “Enoch” (December 1994 Friend)
    A retelling of the story of Enoch.
  • “Enoch Builds Zion” (October 1998 Friend)
    A retelling of the story of Enoch. Includes figures to use in telling the story.
  • “Follow the Prophet” (May 2001 Friend)
    A retelling of the story of Enoch. Includes figures to use in telling the story.
  • “Being Like a Missionary” (January 2010 Liahona and Friend)
    Learn about and color a picture of Enoch and then draw clothing on a boy to show what missionaries look like today.

Friend February 2026 “Weekly Family Scripture Fun” The Lord helped Enoch teach the gospel. Teach the gospel like Enoch by sharing your testimony! Say a prayer to receive help from Heavenly Father. Write or draw something you believe. Then share your testimony with someone you love.

The people of Enoch were “of one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18). That means they all served each other and worked together. Practice working together by doing a three-legged race! With a partner, use a scarf to tie one of your legs to one of their legs. How fast can you move together?

  • “The City of Enoch” (April 2002 Friend)
    Create a moving picture to use in telling the story of the city of Enoch being taken up to heaven.


Video: Old Testament Stories, “Chapter 5: Enoch”


Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Building Zion” Lesson ideas

Scripture Explorers “The City of Zion”

Lesson 7: Enoch and a Zion People,Primary 6: Old Testament(1996), 27–30

Noah

Lesson 8: Noah and the Flood,” Primary 6: Old Testament(1996), Pages 31–33 Lesson ideas

Friend March 2018 “Noah”

For the Strength of Youth February 2026 “The Flood”

Friend May 1987

These below cutouts are from old Primary manuals.

Friend October 2002

Friend October 2002

Larger PDF version of the October 2002 Friend activity and story visual aid “Noah’s Ark”

Friend February 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun: Origami Noah’s Ark” Use the origami instructions to make a paper boat. Then cut out Noah and his animals (below) to go inside! As you make your ark, talk about ways you can follow Heavenly Father and grow your faith.

Friend February 2026 “Noah and the Animals”

2017 Outline for Sharing Time  Identify the doctrine (playing a matching game): Draw a simple ark on the chalkboard. Prepare several sets of two identical animal pictures. Give one picture to each child. Ask the children to stand and make the sound that the animal in their picture makes and to listen for someone else who is making a similar sound. When the children with matching pictures find each other, have them stand together until all the animals have been paired. Ask the children to come as pairs and put their animals on the ark drawing. Ask the children, “Which prophet did the Lord ask to gather the animals into the ark?” Point out that it was probably a difficult task to gather so many animals into the ark, but Noah chose to obey the Lord’s command.

Friend February 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Liahona February 2022 “Noah’s Ark” For 120 years, Noah repeatedly “called upon the children of men that they should repent; but they hearkened not. … Despite “the long suffering of God … in the days of Noah, … [only] eight souls were saved” (1 Peter 3:20).

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

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

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

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

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

Liahona February 2022 “Teaching about God’s Promises”

Noah’s Animals—20 Questions

Genesis 6–11Moses 8

The Lord gave Noah specific instructions to prepare him and his family for the coming flood. “And Noah did according unto all that the Lord commanded him” (Genesis 7:5). Even though there was no evidence of rain, Noah listened and gathered the animals into the ark.

  1. Briefly tell the story of Noah and the ark (see Genesis 6-8). Discuss how Noah was commanded to help animals enter the ark (see Genesis 6:207:14).
  2. Name different kinds of animals that Noah might have brought on the ark.
  3. Then play a game of 20 questions with your family. Have one person think of an animal that was on the ark. Everyone else takes turns asking yes or no questions to try and guess the animal.
  4. Continue asking questions until someone guesses the animal correctly or until 20 questions have been asked.
  5. Repeat the game until everyone has had a turn thinking of an animal.

Discussion: What are some ways Noah acted in faith? What are some things the Lord has asked us to do? How will we be blessed as families by following the teachings of Jesus Christ?

Liahona February 2022 “Flood Warning” How can you help…[your children or grandchildren] avoid the obscenity, violence, and pornography in today’s media?

  • As you talk about Noah together, help your children see how blessed we are to have a prophet of God today. Help your children search Moses 8:16, 19–20, 23–24to find things Noah taught that the Lord’s prophets still teach today. How are we blessed when we obey these teachings?

The Red Crystal

Here is an ark puzzle they can write the things that prophets teach today on the back before they put it together.

  • How are these teachings like the ark that Noah built?

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

Have each person draw themselves obeying something specific that the prophet has taught us to do.
Place their pictures in the ark below while reminding them that it will bring safety and peace to their lives.

The Red Crystal

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Follow the Prophet” Lesson ides

Tower of Babel

Ensign February 2018 “The Tower of Babel”

Ensign March 1998 “The Tower of Babel” Lesson ideas

Abraham

Display the picture An Angel Saves Abraham (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), and invite the children to share what they know about the story it depicts, found in Abraham 1:12, 15–17. Ask the children to read these verses and share things they learn about prayer.

President Joseph Fielding Smith, commenting on the human sacrifices that took place during the time of Abraham, wrote: “Abraham was of the [tenth] generation from Noah. Several hundred years had passed since the flood, and people had multiplied and spread over the face of the earth. The civilizations of Egypt, Chaldea, Assyria and the petty nations of Canaan, had been established. In the midst of this scattering the true worship of the Father was nearly lost. Sacrifice instituted in the days of Adam and continued in the practice and teaching of Noah, in the similitude of the great sacrifice of the Son of Man, had become perverted. Instead of offering clean animals, such as the lamb and bullock, the apostate nations had dwindled in unbelief to the extent that human sacrifice was offered to their idol gods” (The Way to Perfection, 85).

Liahona February 2022 “The Abrahamic Covenant” God promised Abraham that “as many as receive this Gospel shall be … thy seed” (Abraham 2:10). Our covenants at baptism and in the temple allow us access to the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant and make us part of the covenant people of God, as long as we are faithful (see Ezekiel 11:20).

Old Testament Stories for Young Readers “Abraham and Sarah”

Friend February 2022 “Abraham and Sarah”

Old Testament Scripture Stories “Hagar”

Abraham Gives Lot His Choice of Land

Genesis 13:5–12

Genesis CHAPTER 13 Abram returns from Egypt—He and Lot part—The Lord will make Abram’s seed as the dust of the earth in number—Abram settles in Hebron.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 12–17; Abraham 1–2” When Abraham’s herdsmen and Lot’s herdsmen disagreed over their grazing land, Abraham proposed a solution that brought peace.

  • Your children might enjoy acting out the story from Genesis 13:5–12, pretending to be Abraham, Lot, and the herdsmen. How can we follow Abraham’s example of being a peacemaker with our family or friends? Try role-playing their answers.

Latter Day Kids “Abraham and Lot” Lesson ideas to go with the above video

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

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

“Lesson 9: Jehovah Makes Covenants with Abraham,” Primary 6: Old Testament Pages 35–38 Have the children take turns choosing slips of paper with the following scripture references on them that tell of the promises made to Abraham. Explain that seed means descendants. Have them read each verse aloud and, if they desire, mark the verses in their own scriptures.
Abraham 2:9—His name would be great among all nations.
Abraham 2:10—All who accept the gospel through baptism would be known as Abraham’s descendants.
Abraham 2:11—The Lord would bless those who blessed Abraham and curse those who cursed Abraham.
Abraham 2:11—His descendants would have the priesthood.
Abraham 2:11—His seed would have the responsibility to be missionaries and take the gospel to all nations.
Abraham 2:19—Abraham and his descendants would be given the land of Canaan.
Genesis 22:17—The Lord would multiply Abraham’s seed greatly (Abraham would have many descendants).

Lesson 9: Jehovah Makes Covenants with Abraham,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 35–38 To help the children understand that as God’s covenant people we each have the responsibility to live the gospel and share it with others.
Lesson 10: Abraham and Lot,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 39–4 To strengthen each child’s desire to show love to others.
Lesson 11: Abraham and Isaac,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 43–4 Purpose:
To help the children understand that we should trust Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ completely.

Friend March 2018 “Abraham and Sarah made Covenants” Link includes story and goal card ideas to learn more about how to be like Abraham and Sarah.

Friend February 2026 “Weekly Family Scripture Fun” God hears your prayers. Make a prayer banner. On small pieces of paper, write or draw things you want to pray for or talk to Heavenly Father about. Then poke holes and hang them on a string. Use this banner to give you ideas of what to pray for. Ask

Friend March 2026 “Come, Follow Me: Weekly Scripture Fun” Abraham and Sarah had to be patient and wait a long time before God blessed them with a baby. You can be patient too. Wrap a toy or treat in several layers of paper. Then unwrap one layer every time you read a verse from the scriptures above about Abraham and Sarah’s story. When you’re done, talk about how sometimes blessings don’t come right away. But as we are patient and trust God, His blessings will always come.

Abraham and Isaac

Old Testament Stories “Abraham and Isaac” Illustrations

  • Using pictures of Abraham and Isaac and of the Crucifixion (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 957) can help your children compare the story in Genesis 22 with the Savior’s sacrifice. How does the story of Abraham and Isaac remind us of the sacrifice Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ made for us.

Scripture Helps Old Testament

IsaacJesus Christ
Isaac was Abraham and Sarah’s only son (see Genesis 22:2).Jesus was the Only Begotten Son of the Father (see John 3:16).
Isaac was to be offered on a mountain in the land of Moriah, which tradition holds was the temple mount in Jerusalem (see Genesis 22:22 Chronicles 3:1).Jesus was crucified on a hill outside of Jerusalem (see Mark 15:22).
Isaac was to be a burnt offering (see Genesis 22:2).All sacrifices are to be done in similitude of Jesus Christ (see Moses 5:5–7).
Isaac carried the wood for the sacrifice (see Genesis 22:6).Jesus carried His cross (see John 19:17).
Abraham said God would provide a lamb (see Genesis 22:8).Jesus was the Lamb offered up for us (see 1 Peter 1:19).
Isaac was bound and laid upon the altar (see Genesis 22:9).Jesus was nailed to the cross (see Luke 23:33).
Isaac submitted to the will of his father (see Genesis 22:9).Jesus submitted to the will of His Father (see Luke 22:42).
Abraham did not withhold his son (see Genesis 22:11).God so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten Son (see John 3:16).

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Obedience and Sacrifice” Lesson, activity, and refreshment ideas

Latter Day Kids “Abraham and Isaac” Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

Lot and Sodom and Gomorrah

Friend February 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

Story: Heavenly Father gives us commandments to help us and keep us safe. Angels told a man named Lot to leave his home in a wicked city. Because Lot listened and obeyed, he stayed safe.

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

Activity: Now play a game! Take turns being the leader. The leader tells others to do actions, like “jump up and down” or “run in a circle.” Everyone else follows them. How can following the commandments help you?

Institute: Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Genesis 18–23”

When these three messengers arrived in Sodom, they met Lot, Abraham’s nephew. For reasons that are not clear, Lot had moved his family from living near Sodom (see Genesis 13:12) to living in Sodom (see Genesis 14:12). In the last lesson, you learned about the great wickedness that existed in Sodom and the Lord’s decision to destroy the city (see Genesis 18).

There are two indications in the scriptures that the phrase “looked back” was an idiomatic way of saying “she turned back” or “returned to Sodom.” The implication is that Lot’s wife started back to Sodom, perhaps to save some possessions, and was caught in the destruction.

Most scholars agree that the most probable site of Sodom is now covered by the southern part of the Dead Sea, a body of water with a high salt content. If Lot’s wife returned to Sodom, she would have been caught in the destruction. Her becoming a pillar of salt could be a figurative way of expressing this outcome.

Isaac and Rebekah

Friend February 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Ten-Camel Kindness

Story: Rebekah helped Abraham’s servant by bringing water for his 10 camels (see Genesis 24:10–20). Abraham’s servant was thankful for her kindness.

Song: “I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79)

Activity: You can serve like Rebekah! Draw 10 camels (see page 12 to learn how). Hang them up where your family can see them. Each time you do something kind for someone else, color in a camel.

Lesson 12: Isaac and Rebekah,” Primary 6: Old Testament Pages 47–51 Purpose:To teach the children that the same eternal blessings promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob can be theirs if they make and honor temple marriage covenants.

Finding a Bride for Isaac
Rebekah was Kind

Friend June 1989 “Scriptural Giants: Rebekah”

Friend February 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 24–27”

To highlight Rebekah’s impressive example of kindness, you could show your children the picture below or this week’s activity page as you summarize the story in Genesis 24:10–21. This could lead to a conversation a.

Show the picture of Rebekah in this week’s activity page. Point out details in the picture as you summarize the story in Genesis 24:10–21, in which Rebekah showed kindness to the servant of Abraham. Point out that her words and act of kindness were the sign that Rebekah was the one that God wanted to marry Abraham’s son Isaac.

Your children might enjoy acting out the story. Invite the children to pretend to be the servant arriving with his camels or Rebekah getting water for them. Give them phrases to recite from the scriptures, such as “Let me … drink a little water” (verse 17) and “I will draw water for thy camels also” (verse 19). Why is it important for us to be kind to others?

Friend March 2026 “Come, Follow Me: Weekly Scripture Fun” Rebekah was kind. She gave a stranger and his camels water. Go on a kindness hunt! Walk around your home or your neighborhood and look for ways you can show kindness. Then do them!

Latter Day Kids “Rebekah at the Well” Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Our Divine Birthright” Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

Bracelets and Scriptures – The manual suggests, “Your family could look in these verses for attributes
that made Rebekah a worthy eternal companion for Isaac. Encourage family members to pick
one of these attributes that they feel they should develop.”

  • Scriptures: Read Genesis 24:15–28, 55–60 and let each person choose one way they want to be more like Rebekah.
  • Bracelet: Write that attribute on a strip of paper and draw specific things you might do if you have that attribute. Tape/staple the strip to make a bracelet. Wear it to remind you of the story of Rebekah. Could also write the attribute on the below jewels and cut them into two strips to make a bracelet.

For the Strength of Youth March 2026 “What do we know about Rebekah, the wife of Isaac?”

She was virtuous and beautiful. See Genesis 24:16.

She was kind and diligent. Abraham’s servant traveled far to find someone for Abraham’s son Isaac to marry in the covenant. He stopped at a well and prayed that the woman who would draw water for both him and his 10 camels would be the one God had appointed to marry Isaac. Rebekah did this. (See Genesis 24:1–28.)

She had great faith. When she was asked the next day if she would go back with Abraham’s servant, Rebekah said she would. She had faith in the Lord, who had guided him. (See Genesis 24:50–58.) Also, over 20 years of childlessness, she kept up hope in her covenants (see Genesis 25:20, 26).

She [sought out] received revelation for her family. When Rebekah was pregnant with twins, [and the children struggled together within her; and she said, If it be so, why am I thus? And she went to inquire of the Lord.] the Lord told her, “The elder shall serve the younger” (Genesis 25:23). She later saw how the elder twin, Esau, rejected the Lord’s counsel and disrespected his birthright and how the younger twin, Jacob, was faithful. She helped Jacob receive the birthright blessing and warned him that his brother wanted to kill him. (See Genesis 27.)

Jacob

Jacob and Esau

Old Testament Stories “Jacob and Esau”

Lesson 13: Jacob and Esau,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 52–55 Purpose: To help the children recognize how our values influence our choices.

“Jacob and Esau Matchup” (February 1990 Friend)
Draw a line from each symbol to the twin the item describes.

Jacob’s Vision of a Ladder

Jacob and His Family

“Lesson 14: Jacob and His Family,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 56–61 Purpose: To help the children have a desire to be honest and have integrity

Friend May 2018 “Jacob’s Sons: Funstuff” The prophet Jacob had 12 sons. Can you find the two sons dressed exactly the same?

“Lesson 14: Jacob and His Family,” Primary 6: Old Testament 

Old Testament Coloring Book “The Twelve Tribes of Israel”

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “The House of Israel” Lesson ideas

Joseph

Old Testament Stories “Joseph’s Inspired Dreams” Illustrations

  • “Joseph, Son of Israel (Part 2)” (June 1990 Friend)
    An illustrated retelling of the second half of the story of Joseph, including Joseph’s experience with Potiphar, interpreting the dreams of Pharaoh, and giving his family food.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 37–41” Jealousy led Joseph’s brothers to make terrible choices. Their wrong choices hurt Joseph and broke their father’s heart. This story can help the children choose to be happy when others are blessed by the Lord.

  • Invite the children to review Genesis 37:3–11 and draw pictures of Joseph’s coat and his two dreams. How did Joseph’s brothers feel about Joseph? How could they have responded differently? Discuss why it is important to be happy when good things happen to other people.

Old Testament Study Guide for Home-Study Seminary Students “Unit 7: Day 3, Genesis 33–37”

“Lesson 38: Genesis 35–37,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material

Sometimes a person might feel envious or jealous if a sibling or close friend receives an important award; is selected for an athletic team, band, orchestra, or choir; or performs the best in his or her class on an exam.

What is the danger of feeling envious or jealous of others who experience good fortune?

We can learn the following principle from the account of Joseph and his brothers: Choosing to hate or envy others can lead us to commit additional sins.

Old Testament Study Guide for Home-Study Seminary Students “Unit 7: Day 3, Genesis 33–37” It may help you to understand the following: Sheaves (see Genesis 37:7) are bundles of wheat. To make obeisance (see Genesis 37:7) means to bow down before a superior to show deep respect. To rebuke (see Genesis 37:10) is to reprimand or correct. To observe (see Genesis 37:11), in this context, means to consider and reflect.

Old Testament Stories “Joseph in Egypt” Illustrations

Here’s an object lesson that can help your children follow Joseph’s example of fleeing from Potiphar’s wife: Use two magnets to represent Jesus Christ and Satan. Use a small metal object, like a paper clip, to represent us. Then let your children see how the influence of a magnet on the metal object is stronger when they move the object closer to it. How does Joseph’s experience in Genesis 39:7–12 illustrate this truth?

As the children you teach face temptations throughout their lives, they can gain strength from Joseph’s example of fleeing temptation.

  • Show a picture of Joseph and Potiphar’s wife (see Gospel Art Book, no. 11), and share the story in Genesis 39:7–12. How did Joseph resist temptation?

Help your children think of temptations they might face. Let them role-play how they could “flee” from these temptations.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 37–41”

  • When your children face hard times, they need to know that the Lord will be with them, as He was with Joseph. Perhaps you could help your children make a list of hard things that happened to Joseph (see Genesis 37:23–2839:20; or “Joseph’s Inspired Dreams” and “Joseph in Egypt,” in Old Testament Stories, 47–51, 52–56). After each hardship they find, invite your children to repeat, “The Lord was with Joseph” Genesis 39:1–3, 20–23 . Invite the children to share what they think the phrase “the Lord was with Joseph” means (Genesis 39:2). Invite them to share experiences when they felt that the Lord was with them or their families during a hard time. Share similar experiences from your life.

Friend April 2018 “Joseph Trusted God”

Old Testament Stories for Young Readers “Joseph Prepares for Hard Times”

“Lesson 14: ” Primary 6: Old Testament “Joseph was Sold into Egypt” Pages 62-66 Ask the children if they have ever had something small, like a piece of sand, in their eye. How did it feel? Show the children the picture of the oyster and the pearl, or, if available, show a pearl and some sand. Explain that something as beautiful as a pearl can develop from the irritation caused by a small grain of sand inside an oyster shell. Explain that there are things in our lives that can cause irritations, like being hurt, disappointed, mistreated, or misjudged. We can complain, be sad, be angry, or be jealous, or we can have a positive attitude and make the best of the situation.

“Lesson 14: ” Primary 6: Old Testament “Joseph in Egypt” Pages 67-70

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal Lesson ideas

Latter Day Kids “Joseph in Egypt” Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “The Lord is With Us” Lesson Ideas

Old Testament Stories “Joseph and the Famine” Illustrations

Gospel Art Picture: “Joseph Greets His Brothers in Egypt”

Lesson 17: Joseph Forgives His Brothers,” Primary 6: Old Testament Pages 71–74


Friend May 2018 “Joseph Forgives His Brothers”

  • “Joseph” (September 1994 Friend)
    A retelling of the story of Joseph of Egypt.

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Forgiveness Brings Blessings” Lesson ideas

Scripture Figures: “Joseph ‘Holds to the Iron Rod’” (July 1998 Friend)

  • “Joseph and His Brothers” (May 1995 Liahona and September 1994 Friend) Read the story of Joseph in the Old Testament and then circle the true statements from the story and X off those that are false.

Friend March 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Friend May 2018 “Joseph Forgave” Story, video, and goal card.

When Joseph met his brothers again after many years, how did they demonstrate that they had changed since he last saw them? What can we learn about repentance from their experiences?

Joseph recognized that although his experience in Egypt had been difficult, “God meant it unto good” (Genesis 50:20). Has your family experienced any trials that God turned into blessings?

Liahona March 2022 “Similarities between Joseph of Egypt and Jesus Christ”

Institute Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Genesis 37–50”

  1. Joseph was the favored son of his father; so was Jesus (see Genesis 37:3Matthew 3:17).
  2. Joseph was rejected by his brothers, the Israelites, as was Jesus (see Genesis 37:4John 1:11Isaiah 53:31 Nephi 19:13–14).
  3. Joseph was sold by his brothers into the hands of the Gentiles, just as Jesus was (see Genesis 37:25–27Matthew 20:19).
  4. Judah, the head of the tribe of Judah, proposed the sale of Joseph. Certain leaders of the Jews in Jesus’ day turned Jesus over to the Romans. Judas (the Greek spelling of Judah) was the one who actually sold Jesus. (See Genesis 37:26Matthew 27:3.)
  5. Joseph was sold for twenty pieces of silver, the price of a slave his age. Christ was sold for thirty pieces of silver, the price of a slave His age. (See Genesis 37:28Matthew 27:3Exodus 21:32Leviticus 27:5.)
  6. In their very attempt to destroy Joseph, his brothers actually set up the conditions that would bring about their eventual temporal salvation—that is, Joseph, by virtue of being sold, would become their deliverer. Jesus, by His being given into the hands of the Gentiles, was crucified and completed the atoning sacrifice, becoming the Deliverer for all mankind.
  7. Joseph began his mission of preparing salvation for Israel at age thirty, just as Jesus began His ministry of preparing salvation for the world at age thirty (see Genesis 41:46Luke 3:23).
  8. When Joseph was finally raised to his exalted position in Egypt, all bowed the knee to him. All will eventually bow the knee to Jesus. (See Genesis 41:43D&C 88:104.)
  9. Joseph provided bread for Israel and saved them from death, all without cost. Jesus, the Bread of Life, did the same for all men. (See Genesis 42:35John 6:48–572 Nephi 9:50.)

The Red Crystal

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50” The story of Joseph saving his family from famine can teach us about Jesus Christ, who saves us from sin and death.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Old Testament 2026 & Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50”

  • You and your children could look at the picture of Jacob blessing his sons at the end of this outline and discuss what is happening (see Genesis 48:8–9). If needed, explain that Jacob, Joseph’s father, wanted to give priesthood blessings to his family. Perhaps you could share with each other any experiences you’ve had receiving help from God through a priesthood blessing. What are some reasons we might ask for a priesthood blessing?

Joseph Prophesied about Joseph Smith

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50” Thousands of years in advance, Joseph of Egypt saw that the Lord would call Joseph Smith to do a great work in the latter days. Teach the children how the Lord has blessed us through the Prophet Joseph Smith.

Give the children descriptive clues about Joseph Smith, and invite them to guess who you are describing. Include clues from Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 50:27–33 (in the Bible appendix), such as “he taught us about covenants” (see verse 28), “he gave us the word of the Lord” (see verse 30), and “he was named after his father” (see verse 33). After the children guess correctly, invite them to find these clues in the verses. What else do we learn about Joseph Smith from the prophecy of Joseph in Egypt?

Liahona February 2020 “Meet the Four Josephs” Lehi tells his son Joseph about some of the prophecies that Joseph of Egypt made about Joseph Smith, who was named after his father, Joseph. The article includes the following: What Did Joseph of Egypt Say about Joseph Smith? How Was Joseph Smith Like Joseph of Egypt? How Did Lehi Know about Joseph of Egypt?

See more teaching ideas at Teaching Children the Gospel “Genesis 37-41” Come Follow Me

Moses

Baby

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.

Friend March 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

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.

Old Testament Stories “Baby Moses” Illustrations and video

Latter Day Kids “Baby Moses” Lesson Ideas

Friend March 2026 “Come, Follow Me: Weekly Scripture Fun” Moses’s mother put baby Moses in a basket and hid him near a river so that he would be safe! Make a small basket using materials in your home. You could use craft sticks, paper, or even fruits or vegetables. Then try floating your basket in some water. Read the scriptures above and talk about how the Lord helped Moses. God’s miracles kept Moses safe!

“Baby-Moses Action Rhyme” (January 1997 Friend) A poem with actions about the baby Moses.

Gospel Library


“Miriam Tends Baby Moses” (January 1972 Friend) A retelling of the story of Moses in the bulrushes. Illustrations by Virginia Sargent


Friend March 2022 “Make a Basket for Baby Moses”

Friend April 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Moses is Called to Deliver the Israelites

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.

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

Friend March 2026 “Moses the Prophet”

Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures “I Will Deliver You” Lesson ideas

Know the Lord

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

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

What are some things we can do to “know the Lord” in our lives?

Who is Jehovah?

Exodus 6:3

Jehovah is one of the names of Jesus Christ and refers to the premortal Savior. The Joseph Smith Translation clarifies that the prophets Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob knew the Lord by this name (see Exodus 6:3, footnote c). Usually, when the phrase “the Lord” appears in the Old Testament, it refers to Jehovah. In Exodus 3:13–15, the title “I AM” is also a reference to Jehovah (see also Doctrine and Covenants 38:139:1).

The Plagues of Egypt

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

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. How can you use this story to help the children trust the Lord and His power?

  • Junior: Read selected verses from Exodus 7–11 to teach the children about the ten plagues that the Lord sent upon the Egyptians. Invite the children to draw pictures that portray some of the plagues. Ask the children to hold up their pictures as you review the plagues again. Read phrases from Exodus 7:5 and 9:14 to explain why the Lord sent the plagues to Egypt.
  • Senior: Give each child a paper divided into ten sections, and invite the children to draw pictures of the plagues described in these verses: Exodus 7:17–188:1–48:16–178:20–229:1–69:8–99:22–2310:4–510:21–2211:4–7. What do the plagues teach us about God’s power? Why is it important to know about His power?

Lesson 19: Moses Delivers the Israelites from Bondage,” Primary 6: Old Testament Pass out numbered slips of paper with the scripture references for each of the ten plagues on the corresponding numbered paper. Have each child look up his or her reference and tell the class about it. You could supply the class with art materials and let 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. What were the ten plagues the Lord commanded Moses to call down upon Egypt because Pharaoh refused to let Israel go? (See enrichment activity 1.)

(1) Exodus 7:20–21, river turns to blood

(2) Exodus 8:6, frogs

(3) Exodus 8:17, lice

(4) Exodus 8:24, flies

(5) Exodus 9:6, cattle die

(6) Exodus 9:10, boils

(7) Exodus 9:23, hail and fire

(8) Exodus 10:14–15, locusts

(9) Exodus 10:22, darkness

(10) Exodus 11:5, death of firstborn

What pattern did Pharaoh follow with each plague? (Exodus 8:8, 13, 15.)

Old Testament Coloring Book “Plagues of Egypt”

Friend April 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Leap Frog”

Story: Moses was a prophet. He told Pharaoh to let God’s people go free (see Exodus 8:1). Pharaoh said he would let them go. But then he broke his promise. God sent frogs, lice, flies, and other plagues to warn Pharaoh to follow the prophet.

Song: “Follow the Prophet,” verse 5 (Children’s Songbook, 110–11)

Activity: Play a game! Have everyone get in a line. Then crouch down low. One person puts their hands on another person’s back and jumps over each person one by one, like a frog. Take turns until everyone has gone. Each time you hop, say one way you can follow the prophet.

Friend April 2018

Friend April 2022 “For Older Kids”

Friend April 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun”

Latter Day Kids “Moses and the Plagues of Egypt” Lesson ideas

Lesson 19: Moses Delivers the Israelites from Bondage,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 81–84 Purpose: To teach the children that the priesthood is the power of God.

Old Testament Scripture Stories “The Passover”

The Passover video

Institute: Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Exodus 11–19: The Passover and the Exodus” Great explanation of the symbolism of the passover

All of God’s children come into a world of sin and may find themselves in bondage to Satan and the powers of sin. (The terminology of slavery is used in such scriptures as 2 Nephi 2:29Alma 34:35D&C 84:49–51Moses 4:47:26.) Thus, the pharaoh could be thought of as a type or symbol of Satan. In light of this truth, it should be noted that what finally released the children of Israel from the bondage of the pharaoh (the symbol of Satan) was the death of the firstborn of Egypt. In like manner the atoning sacrifice of the Firstborn Son of God freed the children of God from death, a bondage to Satan.

Leaven, or yeast, was seen anciently as a symbol of corruption because it so easily spoiled and turned moldy. Jesus used this imagery when He warned the disciples of the “leaven of the Pharisees” (Matthew 16:6), meaning their corrupt doctrine (see Matthew 16:6–12). In the law of Moses no leaven could be offered with the trespass offering (see Leviticus 6:17), suggesting that the offering must be without any corruption. For the Israelites, eating the unleavened bread symbolized that they were partaking of the bread which had no corruption or impurity, namely, the Bread of Life, who is Jesus Christ (see John 6:35). The careful purging of the household of all leaven (see Exodus 12:19) was a beautiful symbol of putting away all uncleanliness from the family.

Parting the Red Sea

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.

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?

Liahona April 2022 “Jesus Christ Is Our Savior” Stand Still and Have Faith

With the Lord’s help, Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt. They were frightened because they were trapped by the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s army was chasing after them. “And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord” (Exodus 14:13).

  1. Display a picture of the parting of the Red Sea. Read together Exodus 14:21–29. Note the actions in those verses.
  2. Role-play the parting of the Red Sea, using the actions above. Play until everyone has had a chance to play the parts they want.

Discussion: How did the children of Israel exercise faith by doing what the Lord commanded? How can we exercise faith when we experience challenges in our lives?

Friend April 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Act out the above story and then sing “Redeemer of Israel” (Hymns, no. 6)

Latter Day Kids “God Parts the Red Sea” Lesson ideas

Friend April 2026

Israelites in Wilderness

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 15:23–2516:14–1517:1–6. 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.

Additional Resources:

Ten Commandments

Lesson 21: The Ten Commandments,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 90–94
To teach the children that keeping the Ten Commandments helps us be happy.
Lesson 22: Israel and the Brass Serpent,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 95–100
To encourage the children to be humble and have faith in Jesus Christ.

Friend June 2018 “Moses Follows God”

Friend April 2026 “Weekly Scripture FunActivity: Write the Ten Commandments on pieces of paper. Take turns choosing one and coming up with ways to remember it. You could make up a song, do actions with your hands, or draw pictures! Then see how many you can remember without looking at your list.

Friend June 2018 “Moses Obeyed God” Story, video, and goal card.


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Latter Day Kids “Commandments Are a Blessing” Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures “Keep the Commandments” Lesson ideas

Golden Calf

Scripture Helps: Old Testament

What blessings did the Israelites lose because of their disobedience?

When Moses came down from Mount Sinai and saw the golden calf and the people’s behavior, he broke the stone tablets that had been written by the Lord. Moses’s act of breaking the tablets reflected Israel’s broken covenant. President Jeffrey R. Holland explained that “there was considerably more on those tablets than the Ten Commandments.”

The Joseph Smith Translation clarifies that the broken tablets contained the Lord’s instructions for the ordinances and covenants of the Melchizedek Priesthood. These ordinances and covenants are necessary for us to become like God and dwell in His presence. However, because the Israelites hardened their hearts, they were not worthy to receive these blessings from the Lord.

Despite Israel’s disobedience, the Lord was still merciful to those who repented. When Moses climbed Mount Sinai later, the Lord instructed him to institute the “law of a carnal commandment,” or the preparatory gospel administered through the Aaronic Priesthood. This law came to be known as the law of Moses.

Old Testament Seminary Student Material

Coveting, in this context, means having a selfish desire for something that belongs to another person. Coveting can cause feelings of jealousy, envy, pride, and greed. Coveting can lead us to be ungrateful and never satisfied with what we have.

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

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.

Tabernacle

Latter Day Kids “Symbols of the Tabernacle” Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Holy Places” Lesson ideas

Old Testament Stories “Chapter 21: The Tabernacle” Video

Friend May 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Build a Tabernacle

Story: The Lord asked Moses and his people to build a tabernacle. A tabernacle is like a temple. The Lord told them to build it like a tent so they could take it with them as they traveled to the promised land. You can read about it in Exodus 39:33–43.

Activity: Build a tent like the tabernacle. You can use blankets, towels, chairs, and anything else in your home. Then sit in your tent and talk about why temples are important. Or you could make a small tabernacle with blocks or other items.

The Ancient Tabernacle, by Bradley Clark

Scripture Helps: Old Testament The following objects were contained in the ancient tabernacle:

Altar of sacrifice The altar in the outer courtyard was used for animal sacrifices. Animal sacrifices were symbolic of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. 

Laver of water Here the priests washed their hands and feet before entering the tabernacle or officiating at the altar of sacrifice. This was a reminder for the Israelites of the need to be clean as they participated in sacred ordinances and prepared to enter the Lord’s presence.

Table of shewbread The 12 loaves of unleavened bread on the table of shewbread (pronounced showbread) served as a reminder to the Israelites that Jehovah was their continual provider. He is the bread of life.

Candlestick Light is a symbol of Jesus Christ, who is “the light of the world.” The light from the lamps can also symbolize other sources of light the Lord has blessed us with, including the Holy Ghost and the scriptures. 

Altar of incense The altar of incense was placed in front of the veil leading to the Holy of Holies. The high priest burned incense each morning and night at this altar. The smoke from the incense represented the prayers of the faithful ascending to God.

Veil The veil symbolized the “separation between God and man.” Just as the veil of the temple gave the high priest access to the Holy of Holies, it is only through Jesus Christ and His Atonement that we can enter God’s presence.

Ark of the covenant The mercy seat represented the throne of God. After the Lord gave Moses instructions for creating the ark of the covenant, He promised, “There I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat.”

Spies Fear Canaan

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.

Moses and the Brass Serpent

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.

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).

Balak Asks Balaam to Curse the Israelites

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

Moses’ Farewell

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)

Joshua

Scripture Helps: Old Testament

Old Testament Stories “Joshua the Prophet”

Friend May 2022 “Joshua’s Courage”

Old Testament Stories “Rahab and the Spies”

Friend May 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Jericho

Old Testament Stories “Joshua the Prophet”

Joshua led the Israelite army to the land of Canaan. They arrived at a city called Jericho. The city was very strong and had high walls. The Lord told Joshua how to conquer Jericho. He said the Israelites should march around Jericho every day for six days. Joshua obeyed the Lord.

Joshua told the priests to carry the ark of the covenant in front of the Israelites. Each day, the army marched around Jericho, and seven priests blew their horns. All the other Israelites were silent.

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

Old Testament Coloring Book “The City of Jericho”

Lesson 23: Joshua Leads Israel,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 101–5
To help the children choose to serve the Lord

Latter Day Kids “Choose You This Day” Lesson ideas

Latter Day Kids “Choose You This Day” Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Have Courage and Serve God” Lesson ideas

Deborah the Prophetess

Old Testament Scripture Stories “Deborah the Prophetess”

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

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

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

Friend June 2022 “Deborah under the Palm Tree” Color the pieces and cut them out along the blue lines. (Do not cut along the top of Deborah’s head—leave her attached to the base.) Fold the tab and then bend the tree base to glue the tab to the other side. Glue or tape the leaves to the top.

Friend July 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Gideon

  • 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).

Old Testament Stories “The Army of Gideon”

  • 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. Then they could read Judges 7:16 to learn what the Lord told Gideon’s army to use. Why would it have taken courage and faith 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?

Friend July 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

“Lesson 24: Gideon,” Primary 6: Old Testament 

Samson

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

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

Ruth and Naomi

Old Testament Stories “Ruth and Naomi”

Friend June 2022 “Ruth and Naomi”

For the Strength of Youth June 2022 “Fearless Together”

Friend July 2018 “Ruth was a Loyal Friend” Link includes story and goal card ideas to learn how to be a good friend like Ruth.

Friend August 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

The Red Crystal Include these in the chart activity, or use them for a match up activity.

Lesson 26: Ruth and Naomi,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 114–16

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

Latter Day Kids “Showing Kindness to Others” Lesson ideas

Liahona June 2022 “We Follow Jesus Christ and His Prophet” : Family Support Game

Ruth supported Naomi by staying with her. Try this activity to learn about supporting family:

  1. Choose a family member and stand back-to-back. Place any object (a small ball or a book) between each other’s backs.
  2. Working as a team, see how many steps you can take together without letting the object fall.
  3. Take turns as a family until everyone has had a chance to work as a team to help each other.

Discussion: How did Ruth and Naomi help each other? Ruth believed in Heavenly Father and had faith, so she stayed with Naomi. How was she blessed? How can we support each other and trust the Lord when we have difficulties?

Friend June 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

Grains of Service

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Story: Read about Ruth in the scripture story on page 8. She worked hard and gathered grain to take care of her husband’s mother. God blessed her for serving others.

Song: “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198)

Activity: Cut out pieces of paper in the shape of grain kernels. Use a stick or long piece of paper as a stem. Glue or tape your kernels to the stem to make a stalk of grain. Whenever you serve someone, pull off a kernel. Keep going until the stem is bare!

Friend July 2026 “Basket Craft Service” Make this basket with pieces of wheat to remember Ruth and her kindness! On each piece, write one way you can serve someone this week. When you do that service, put that piece of wheat into your basket.

Media Library “Ruth Gleaning in the Fields (Ruth and Naomi)”

Hannah and Samuel

Old Testament Stories “Hannah” Images

Old Testament Stories for Young Readers “Hannah and Samuel”

Media Library

  • Why was Hannah was sad? What can we do when we are sad? Read to the children 1 Samuel 1:10, and invite the children to listen for what Hannah did. Ask the children how they feel when they pray. Read from verse 18 to explain that after her prayer, Hannah “was no more sad.” Help the children see that they can always pray to Heavenly Father, especially when they are sad.

Use this week’s activity page to teach the children that they can pray to Heavenly Father and He will help them. While the children are coloring, sing or play a recording of a song that teaches about prayer, such as “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13).

Friend June 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Samuel

Friend June 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Old Testament Stories “Samuel the Prophet” Images

“Lesson 27: Samuel, the Boy Prophet,” Primary 6: Old Testament To encourage the children to listen for the promptings of the Holy Ghost.

Saul

David

Old Testament Scripture Stories “Young David”

Friend August 2018 “David and Goliath” & Old Testament Stories for Young Readers “David and Goliath” (Video)

Friend August 1987

Liahona June 2022 “David and Goliath: Faith over Fear”

For the Strength of Youth June 2026 “A Fight with Goliath”

Latter Day Kids “David and Goliath” Lesson ideas

  • Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 Let them take turns acting out the story of David and Goliath. Prompt the child pretending to be Goliath to say, “Give me a man, that we may fight together” (1 Samuel 17:10). Prompt the child pretending to be David to say, “I come to thee in the name of the Lord” (1 Samuel 17:45). Testify that when we have faith in the Lord, He will help us have courage like David had.

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Modern Day Goliaths” Lesson ides

“God’s Power Within You” (January 2002 Friend)
President Gordon B. Hinckley tells the story of David and Goliath and teaches that we can overcome the Goliaths in our lives.(includes images of the story)

Friend July 2022 “Stand for What You Believe” Elder Rasband tells of his youth and often being the only Church member at school. He says that When we live the gospel, we will be different. The Apostle Peter said we would be “peculiar” (1 Peter 2:9). And that’s OK. We don’t need to worry about being different when we stand for what we 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.

Friend October 2025 “David’s Five Stones”


Friend August 2018 “David Trusted God” Story and goal card. (Young David trusted God and did hard things, and I can too!)

David and Bathsheba

King David” in Old Testament Stories, 117–20, can help you tell your children the story in 2 Samuel 11. You might ask your children to identify the wrong choices David made and suggest good choices he could have made instead. What are some things we can do when we are being tempted that can help us make the right choice?

Video tells story of David. President Oaks compares David’s story to looking at pornography.

King Solomon

“Lesson 96: 1 Kings 1–10,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material We read in 1 Kings 3:16–23 that two women petitioned King Solomon to judge a difficult situation. The two women lived in one house and had borne children at about the same time. One night, one of the women woke up to find that her baby had died. Rather than mourn the loss of her baby, she switched her dead baby with the other woman’s baby. The next morning, when the second woman awoke to nurse her child, she found the other woman’s dead baby in her arms instead of her son. When the women came before Solomon, the first woman fervently denied the other woman’s accusation that she had switched the babies.

Read 1 Kings 3:24–27 to find out how Solomon identified the child’s rightful mother.

We read in 1 Kings 3:28 that all of Israel heard of this experience and recognized that God had blessed Solomon with wisdom. According to 1 Kings 4, knowledge of Solomon’s wisdom spread to other nations.

The Temple of Solomon

Explain to the children that David, Solomon’s father, had wanted to build a temple but was denied the privilege. The Lord instead chose Solomon to direct the seven years of construction. When the elaborate temple (much of it was overlaid with gold) was finished, the priests carried the ark of the covenant, which contained the two tablets of stone the Lord gave Moses, “to the most holy place” of the building (1 Kings 8:6). Then the glory of the Lord filled the temple (see 1 Kings 8:10–11), and Solomon offered the dedicatory prayer (see 1 Kings 8:22–53.)

Rehoboam

Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, becomes king.

After the death of Solomon, his son Rehoboam became king and increased the people’s burdens. The people revolted and were divided into the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah. Jeroboam, king of the Northern Kingdom, introduced idolatry and other wicked practices among his people. Later, Elijah was a prophet during the reign of Ahab in the Northern Kingdom.The Lord sent a drought according to Elijah’s word.

“Lesson 32: Rehoboam,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 140–44 To encourage each child to be a positive influence on others and to withstand negative peer pressure.

Elijah

Elijah is fed by ravens and a widow

Old Testament Stories for Young Readers “Elijah and the Widow” Video

Friend September 2018 “Elijah and the Widow”

Friend Sept 2014

“Lesson 33: Elijah Uses the Priesthood,” Primary 6: Old Testament To help the children have a greater understanding of how the priesthood blesses their lives.

Friend Feb 1983 – The Miraculus Story of Elijah

Friend Feb 1983

Elijah and the Priests of Baal

For the Strength of Youth July 2026 “Fire From Heaven”

The Lord speaks to Elijah not in the wind, fire, or earthquake

Old Testament Stories “The Lord Speaks to Elijah”

Friend July 2022 “Elijah and the Still, Small Voice”

Latter Day Kids “Elijah and the Still Small Voice” Lesson ideas

Friend June 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: The Still, Small Voice”

Story: Elijah was a prophet. He learned that the Holy Ghost speaks in a still, small voice. You can read this story on page 8 or in 1 Kings 19:11–12.

Song: “The Holy Ghost” (Children’s Songbook, 105)

Activity: Have everyone sit in a line. The first person whispers some words to the next person. Each person whispers the words to the next person. The last person tells everyone what they heard. What can you do to hear the Holy Ghost better?

Friend July 2026 “Weekly Scripture Fun The Spirit Speaks Quietly

Song: “The Still Small Voice” (Children’s Songbook, 106–107)

Scripture: 1 Kings 19:11–12

Activity: The Holy Ghost speaks in a still, small voice. Have one person read the verses above in a quiet voice. While they read, everyone else makes storm noises as loud as they can! Can you hear what the scriptures are saying? Then have everyone be quiet and listen to the scriptures again. What do you learn about the Holy Ghost and how He speaks to us?

“Lesson 33: Elijah Uses the Priesthood,” Primary 6: Old Testament To help the children have a greater understanding of how the priesthood blesses their lives.

Friend September 2018 “Elijah was a Prophet” Story and goal card.

The Red Crystal

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Am I Willing to Serve” Lesson ideas

Elisha

Old Testament Stories “Elisha the Prophet”

Elisha and Naaman

Old Testament Stories “Elisha Heals Naaman”

Media Library “Naaman and Elisha”

Friend July 2026 “Tell Naaman’s Story”

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

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

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

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

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

Friend July 1990 “Elisha and Naaman”

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

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

Naman the Syrian – Friend February 1987

Elisha and the Lord’s Army

Liahona July 2022 “You Are Never Alone”

Liahona July 2022 “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ”

Numbers Unbreakable

2 Kings 6:8–23

Read the story of Elisha and the young servant in 2 Kings 6:8–23.

  1. Get a thin stick that could be easily broken.
  2. Challenge someone to break it.
  3. Put 10 or more sticks together. Challenge the same person to break the group of sticks without separating any.
  4. Why was the challenge more difficult the second time?
  5. Read 2 Kings 6:16-17: “Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.”
  6. Whom did Elisha and the young servant see protecting them?
  7. Read the following: “Like that servant of Elisha, there are more with you than those you can see opposed to you. Some who are with you will be invisible to your mortal eyes” (Henry B. Eyring, “O Ye That Embark,” Liahona, Nov. 2008, 58).

Discussion: Read Doctrine and Covenants 84:88. At times when we might feel alone, how can we trust that we are not? How is the Lord protecting and helping us today? (For ideas, see Ronald A. Rasband, “Be Not Troubled,” Liahona, Nov. 2018, 18–21.)

For the Strength of Youth July 2022 “Fear Not—the Lord Is with You”

King Josiah

Quiz 1

  1. According to 2 Kings 22:1–2, what choices did Josiah make as king?
    1. He sought for riches in wicked ways.
    2. He followed the Lord.
    3. He tried to conquer other nations.
  2. According to 2 Kings 22:8, what was found in the temple?
    1. The book of the law
    2. The ark of the covenant
    3. Moses’s staff
  3. What was the book of the law?
    1. The stone tables Moses received from the Lord
    2. Laws the preceding kings wrote about judging the people
    3. Scrolls that contained the Lord’s law given through Moses
  4. According to 2 Kings 22:11–13, how did Josiah respond when he heard what was written in the book of the law? Select all that apply.
    1. He was afraid of the Lord’s judgment.
    2. He rent his clothes.
    3. He commanded the book to be destroyed.
  5. Which of the following statements best summarizes the meaning of the phrase “all the people stood to the covenant” (2 Kings 23:3)?
    1. The people were angry with the king.
    2. The people agreed with the conditions of the covenant.
    3. The people were opposed to the conditions of the covenant.

Esther

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 4–7

Esther was courageous in approaching the king and saving her people.

  1. 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).
  2. 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.
  3. 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?

For the Strength of Youth July 2026 “Fun Stop”

Media Library “How to Draw Esther’s Crown | Come Create with Me”

Latter Day Kids “The Story of Esther” Lesson ideas

“Queen Esther Saves Jehovah’s People” (August 2010 Liahona and Friend)
A retelling of the story of Queen Esther.

Friend October 2018 “Esther Was Courageous” Story and goal card

Come Follow Me Kid Lesson ideas

The Red Crystal “Come Follow Me- For Primary 2022, July 25-31, Free LDS Primary Helps, Esther”

Job

Friend November 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Old Testament Coloring Book “Job”

Job – Friend June 1987

Josiah

David

Lesson 28: David and Goliath,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 120–24
To encourage each child to seek Heavenly Father’s help in overcoming obstacles.


Friend August 2018 “David Trusted God” Story and goal card. (Young David trusted God and did hard things, and I can too!)

Friend May 2019 “Bright Idea” Poster or handout that says “I can conquer giant problems” next to a giant like David slew.

Friend August 1987

Friend August 2018 “David and Goliath”

Friend June 2022 “For Older Kids”

Friend July 2022 “Stand for What You Believe” Elder Rasband tells of his youth and often being the only Church member at school. He says that When we live the gospel, we will be different. The Apostle Peter said we would be “peculiar” (1 Peter 2:9). And that’s OK. We don’t need to worry about being different when we stand for what we 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.

Lesson 29: David and Jonathan,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 125–30
To help the children understand how to be a true friend.
Lesson 30: King David and Bathsheba,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 131–34
To help the children keep their thoughts and actions pure.

Abagail

Friend October 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego

For the Strength of Youth August 2026 “The Fiery Furnace”

Daniel

Friend November 2022 “Daniel and the Lions’ Den” Finger puppets

Friend November 2018 “Daniel Bravely Followed God” Story and goal card. (I can stand up for what I believe)

Friend November 2018 “Daniel and the Lions”

Friend October 2018 “The T-E-S-T”  One day, when Sharon’s father was reading to her the Bible story about Daniel in the lion’s den, he traced the word “test” on her forehead. He told her she would have tests like Daniel, but she should follow Heavenly Father’s commandments and not give into fear. (Also includes a lion activity of ways Heavenly Father helps us with challenges. )

Friend Jan 1983

Friend November 2018 “Coloring Page: I Love Scripture Stories”  Children acting out story of Daniel in lion’s den.

Elijah

Friend September 2018 “Elijah and the Widow”

Friend September 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Friend September 2018 “Elijah was a Prophet” Story and goal card.

Esther

Friend November 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Friend October 2018 “Esther the Queen”

Friend October 2018 “Esther Was Courageous” Story and goal card.

Jonah

Friend December 2018 “Jonah and the Whale”

[unitegallery Decem2018]

Friend December 2018 “Jonah Repented” Story and goal card.

Isaiah

Friend August 1994 “Isaiah and the Time Machine” Anthony was having a hard time following along during his family’s Book of Mormon study time. They were reading the words of Isaiah in 2 Nephi, and he didn’t understand them. Anthony loved playing in his pretend time machine and his father decided to help the children understand Isaiah by using the time machine. (Excellent story!)

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 Engraving on metal plates is not easy, and space on Nephi’s small plates was limited. So why would Nephi go to the tedious effort of copying a large amount of Isaiah’s writings into his record?

Liahona February 2020 “Who Was Isaiah?”

Liahona March 2012  “How Can I Understand the Words of Isaiah?” Article includes the following: know Isaiah’s main topics, the reasons for studying Isaiah, the events of Isaiah’s days that he used symbolically, helpful hints to understanding his words,  etc.

Friend November 1994 “Isaiah” Isaiah prophesied of many things that would happen in his day and in the future. This article includes an explanation of Isaiah’s most quoted prophecies

Review

Friend August 2022 “For Older Kids”

Friend August 2022 “Old Testament Sudoku”


Service: Lesson Ideas

Posted on

Service is?

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?

Ensign April 2020 “Family Study Fun” Gratitude Tower of Service

King Benjamin built a tower and taught his people that when we serve each other, we are really serving God (see Mosiah 2:17).

  1. Build a tower. It can be a chair, an ottoman, a few boxes, etc.
  2. Take turns getting up on your tower and thanking someone in the family for the service they have done recently.
  3. Now take turns getting on the tower again and sharing with the family one way you’re going to provide service this week.

Discussion: Why is it important to serve others? How does it make you feel when someone serves you? How can we serve someone (and God) as a family this week?

Friend July 2019 “Family Night Fun” A Family Home Evening lesson idea about helping others, coming up with ideas on how to help them, and making goals to serve. (Also includes a refreshment idea.)

Why Serve

Many People in the World Need Help

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

Friend May 2021 “Conference Notes”

Friend November 2022 “Conference News”

He often uses other people to help meet those needs

Doctrine and Covenants 81:582:19

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

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

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

Friend August 2021 “Jesus Helped in Many Ways” When Jesus was younger, He helped His father with his carpentry work. One of His first miracles was helping His mother when the wine had run out at a wedding. When He saw someone who was blind, He healed him. He helped children feel loved and included.

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

Friend July 2017 “Jesus Fed Many People”

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

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

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

Friend June 2022 “I Can Care for Others”

We made baptismal covenants to help and serve others.

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

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

We can be a light to others when we serve

Friend September 2025 “Candle Craft”

Heavenly Father can bless others through me.

Acts 3:1–10

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Acts 1-5” What can you do to help children recognize ways they can bless those around them? Help them learn from the example of Peter and John healing the lame man.

Invite the children to do actions that go along with the story in Acts 3:1–10, such as putting out their hands for money and leaping for joy. How did Heavenly Father bless the man who couldn’t walk?

Bring a bag containing pictures that represent ways that we can bless and serve others. Let the children take turns choosing pictures from the bag and sharing how they can bless others in that way.

Friend June 2009 “How Many People Can We Help?”

New Era March 2016 “Can I Care for the Poor and Needy?”

Ask the children to share a time when they helped someone.

Additional teaching ideas: “Lesson 37: Peter the Apostle,” Primary 7: New Testament  Lesson ideas

Friend January 2026 “Food & Fun” “As we [follow the Savior’s] perfect example, our hands can become His hands; our eyes, His eyes; our heart, His heart.” Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf.

Jesus Christ wants me to help those in need. (Jr)

Galatians 6:2

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

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

Friend August 2023 “My Baptismal Covenant”

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

The Red Crystal

I’ll Walk With You

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

God Wants Me to Serve and Strengthen Those In Need.

Friend January 2022 “Helping Like Jesus” Lesson ideas about using our helping hands to serve others like Jesus would like us to.

Doctrine and Covenants 81:5

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

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

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

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

Friend July 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones”

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

Mosiah 4:12–26

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

Serving others makes us feel good. Perhaps your children could talk about a time when they loved or served someone and how that experience made them feel. What are some reasons people might not want to serve others? What could we say to someone to invite them to help people in need? Look for ideas in Mosiah 4:16–26.

Friend February 2023 “Twelve Smiley Stickers” Antonio’s Primary teacher said that one way to become like Jesus is to serve others, and she gave them each a paper and some smiley stickers. Every time they served someone they got to put a smiley sticker on their paper. That week when Antonio was serving others he saw the happiness that it brought. Pretty soon he was serving not for stickers but because he liked it and it made him feel happy as well.

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.)

Friend September 2018 “Caring and Coconuts”


Friend February 2020 “Garage-Sale Service” TeAroha wanted to help some people in a village who had lost their homes. Her mother suggested they send money to the Church Humanitarian Aid Fund because they use money to help places like that. TeAroha sold some of her toys at a family garage sale and she did chores to earn money to donate.

Friend April 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Mosiah 4:26 together and help your little ones say, “I can help those in need.” This would be a great time to do a family service project. For example, young children could decorate paper bags and help fill them with snacks or other items to comfort people who seem sad or lonely.

I can show love for others as Jesus did.

Friend September 2023 “I Can Serve Others”

Matthew 8Mark 2–3Luke 7

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 8; Mark 2–4; Luke 7” Jesus showed great love by healing the sick and afflicted. Ponder how you can teach the children to show kindness to people in need.

  • (See also the video “Widow of Nain” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.) Share a time when someone showed love for you in a time of need and how you felt. Invite the children to share their experiences.
  • Show the video “Gordon Hinckley: Lessons I Learned as a Boy” or “The Coat” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How did the children in these videos follow Jesus’s example? Invite the children to share other situations when someone might be in need. What can we do to help them?
  • Sing a song about showing love and kindness to others, such as “Kindness Begins with Me” (Children’s Songbook, 145).

Friend October 2023 “I Can Follow Jesus by Helping Others”

Friend December 2023 “Lighting the World Together” Dallin H. Oaks “As followers of Jesus Christ, we should be the friendliest of all people. We should serve those around us and those not of our faith. We should also notice the good done by others. Jesus Christ’s light guides all of us to help those in need.”

Show several pictures of the Savior (see Gospel Art Book,nos. 383940, and 41), and help the children see things that He did with His hands. What can we do with our hands to help others?

Below song includes a story about a boy that didn’t have any friends and another boy learns in FHE and then befriends the lonely boy.

I Can Love Others

1 Corinthians 13

Read 1 Corinthians 13:13 and Moroni 7:47, and help the children repeat the phrase “Charity is the pure love of Christ.” Show pictures of Jesus being loving and kind, and ask the children how He showed love to others (see Gospel Art Book for ideas). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )

The Red Crystal

Sing a song about loving others, such as “Jesus Said Love Everyone” or “Love One Another” (Children’s Songbook, 61, 136), with the children. Show pictures of different people (such as a parent, sibling, teacher, or friend), and ask the children to share how they could serve that person. Invite the children to think of someone they could serve and then write a note or draw a picture to give that person. If they need other ideas about how to serve, show the video “Pass It On” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )

The Red Crystal

Friend February 2019 “Helper Like You” Tell how you could help out in each situation.

Latter Day Kids “Charity is the Pure Love of Christ” Lesson ideas

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8-13” Paul’s definition of charity might make an inspiring motto for your family. You could assign each family member to study a phrase in verses 4–8 and teach the rest of the family what it means using definitions, examples, and personal experiences. How is the Savior an example of these attributes? You could also make posters together for each of these phrases and display them throughout your house. Be creative!

Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

The Lord Wants Me to Share What I Have with Those In Need.

Section 104 is a revelation given to Joseph Smith the Prophet. The occasion was likely that of a council meeting of members of the United Firm, which discussed the pressing temporal needs of the Church.

Doctrine and Covenants 104:13–18

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 102-105”

Consider how you will help the children understand the Lord’s way of providing for His people when they are in need.

  • Give the children a few minutes to make a list of blessings God has given them. Encourage them to list as many as they can. Then read together Doctrine and Covenants 104:13–18, looking for answers to questions like these: Who is the true owner of all things? Why does He give them to us? What does He want us to do with these things? Help the children think of ways they can share their blessings with others.

Friend November 2004 “Blessings Tree”

  • Share an experience in which someone gave you something you needed, and ask the children to share similar experiences. Or show a video about serving others, such as “The Coat” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). What do we learn from these experiences about serving others? Invite the children to be aware of those in need and find someone to serve this week, such as someone at school or especially someone in their family. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 102-105)

Friend July 2021 “Meet Eta from American Samoa” Eta’s mom owns a dessert bakery. Eta and her older sister, Talai, love to share the desserts with their teachers and leaders and with people who might be having a hard time. (includes photo)

Friend March 2020 “Harry Shares” Harry is playing with toys. He is having fun. Harry sees a girl who looks sad. Harry shares toys with her. Now they are both having fun!

Friend July 2018

  • Invite the children to search the Children’s Songbook or Hymns for songs that have to do with service or helping others (see the topical indexes). Sing one or two songs together, and talk about what these songs teach us.

I can share what I have with others.

Proverbs 22:9

“Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022” Young children can learn to help people around them who are in need. How can you inspire them to share what they have with others?

  • Show the children several pictures of others serving or helping people in need, including pictures of the Savior (such as Gospel Art Book, nos. 424446). Ask the children to tell you what is happening in each picture. Read to the children Proverbs 22:9. Explain that one way we can serve is by giving “bread to the poor,” but there are many other ways to help those in need. Invite the children to draw a picture of themselves helping someone.
  • Bring to class several objects that you can share with the children, such as pictures or crayons. As you give one to each child, say, “I will share with [child’s name].” Let the children take turns sharing the objects with each other. What are some other things we can share with others?
  • Sing together a song about service, such as “‘Give,’ Said the Little Stream” (Children’s Songbook, 236). Or show the video “Gordon Hinckley: Lessons I Learned as a Boy” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Ask the children how they feel when they help others.

I can joyfully serve those in need.

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.

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

Friend July 2023 “For Older Kids”

See additional ideas at Service

2 Corinthians CHAPTER 8 True Saints impart of their substance to the poor—Christ, out of His poverty, brought eternal riches.

2 Corinthians CHAPTER 9 God loves and rewards a cheerful giver—Thanks be to God for His unspeakable gift.

2 Corinthians CHAPTER 10 Bring every thought into obedience—Paul glories in the Lord.

2 Corinthians CHAPTER 11 Maintain the simplicity that is in Christ—Satan sends forth false apostles—Paul glories in his sufferings for Christ.

2 Corinthians CHAPTER 12 Paul is caught up to the third heaven—The Lord gives men weaknesses that they may triumph over them—Paul manifests the signs of an Apostle.

2 Corinthians CHAPTER 13 Saints should test themselves as to righteousness—Be perfect and of one mind; live in peace.

I can cheerfully give to people in need. (Jr)

2 Corinthians 9:6–7

Invite the children to repeat the phrase “God loveth a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). What does it mean to be “a cheerful giver”? Show a picture of a happy face and a sad face, and ask the children which one looks like a cheerful giver. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )

Clipart Library

Sing together a song about service, such as “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198), several times. The first time, ask the children to sing cheerfully; then ask them to sing the song with different emotions or attitudes, such as sad, tired, angry, or scared. Remind the children that Heavenly Father wants us to help others gladly. Then sing the song cheerfully again. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )

Help the children make pictures of smiling faces and frowning faces. Ask them to hold up their pictures of smiles when they hear the words smile or smiling as they sing “Smiles” (Children’s Songbook, 267). They could do the same thing with their pictures of frowns and the words frown and frowning. Help the children identify which face is cheerful and which one is not. Explain that one way to be cheerful and serve others is to smile and help others smile. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 14–16” )

Plan a class activity to serve someone, such as a child who does not attend Primary or a ward member or neighbor in need. You might plan to visit this person’s home, write kind notes or draw pictures, or make a treat to share. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )

Friend February 2017 “Friendship Brownies” Grace’s Primary class makes brownies and a huge card to take to a classmate who hasn’t been coming.

Invite each child to plan an act of cheerful service for a member of his or her family. During next week’s lesson, ask them to share what they did. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )

Friend January 2018

Latter Day Kids “I Can Be a Cheerful Giver” Lesson ideas

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8–13” Does your family know someone who could be described as “a cheerful giver”? How can we make our service to others more cheerful? Younger family members could make badges that say “I am a cheerful giver.” You could award the badges to family members whenever you see them serving one another cheerfully.2 Corinthians 10:3–7.

Comefollowmekid.com Badges

I can cheerfully give to people in need (Sr)

2 Corinthians 9:6–9

Write the words of 2 Corinthians 9:7 on the board, with key words left blank. Invite the children to guess what the missing words are. Then let them read the verse in the scriptures to fill in the blanks. What does it mean to give “grudgingly, or of necessity”? What does it mean to be “a cheerful giver”? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )

News with Naylors “A Cheerful Giver” Cover up some words below with thick papers. (See more lesson ideas at link.)


New Testament Study Guide for Home-Study Seminary Students “2 Corinthians 8–9” Read 2 Corinthians 9:6–7, looking for the comparison Paul used to teach the Church members in Corinth about giving freely.

To sow means to plant seeds. Who are the sowers in this comparison?

Consider how giving to others is like sowing seeds in a field. What happens if we only sow sparingly? What happens when we sow bountifully?

According to 2 Corinthians 9:7, how does the Lord expect us to sow, or give?

From 2 Corinthians 9:6–7 we learn the following truth: If we give to those in need with a cheerful heart, God will generously bless us.

Invite the children to help you find pictures of the Savior serving others (there are several in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Ask them what they see in these pictures that helps them know that Jesus served others with love. Set a goal as a class to say yes when family members or others ask us to serve in the coming week, such as by helping around the house or caring for others. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )

The Red Crystal They can color in a heart when they have completed an act of service.

Help the children decorate small stones. Explain that these are “service stones” that they can carry in their pockets this week to help them remember to cheerfully serve others. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )

Kids Activities

Sing together a song about service, such as “Fun to Do” (Children’s Songbook, 253). Help the children think of new verses to the song that describe a variety of ways to serve others. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 8-13” )

Friend September 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities: A Cheerful Helper”

Story: Paul taught that we can help our neighbor (see 2 Corinthians 9:6–7). As we serve cheerfully, we can help others feel God’s love!

Song: “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198)

Activity: On slips of paper, write down the names of people who might need your help. Then write how you can help that person. Put the papers in a hat or basket and shake them up. Choose one and do what it says!

I Can Share What I Have with Others.

Doctrine and Covenants 78:6

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ministering

Friend January 2019 “President Ballard Visits Texas”  Ministering means serving and loving. Jesus Christ ministered to others, and so do His Apostles. How are the people below ministering? How can you help someone today?

I am serving Jesus Christ when I serve others.

Doctrine and Covenants 42:38

Matthew 25:31–46

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 We serve Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ by serving people around us. Help the children consider ways they can serve others.

  • Summarize the parable in Matthew 25:34–46. Help the children understand that when we are serving others, we are serving Jesus.

The “right hand”: In ancient times, being seated at the right hand of the king, or next to the king on his right side, was the most honorable position at a feast.

  • Hold up a picture of a child with a picture of Jesus hidden behind it. What can we do to serve this child? Remove the child’s picture and explain that when we serve each other, we are serving Jesus.

Friend September 2007 “The Master Served” Link includes lesson ideas

The Red Crystal This site has great visual aid ideas.

  • Invite the children to draw pictures of themselves serving others in the ways the Savior describes in Matthew 25:35–36. Ask the other children to guess what they are drawing.

3For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

Match the pictures as the above scripture is read.

  • Invite the children to share experiences when someone has shown Christlike service to them or their families.

“Lesson 27: Parable of the Sheep and the Goats,” Primary 7: New Testament

Read the following or similar situations to the children (use situations that are within the children’s experiences). Ask them what they think they should do if:

  • They see a younger child who is thirsty but can’t reach the water.
  • They know a child who hasn’t been to church for several weeks.
  • They know someone who doesn’t have enough to eat.
  • They see someone who doesn’t have a warm coat, and it is very cold.
  • They know someone who has been home for a long time with an illness or disability.
  • What would Jesus want you to do? Why do you think you should help others in situations such as these?

News with Naylors “Helping Others” Activity ideas

Doctrine and Covenants 42:38

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

The Lord wants His Saints to care for the poor and needy. Help the children understand that when they are serving people in need, they are also serving the Savior.

  • If Jesus Christ were in our class today, what would we say to Him? How would we treat Him? Show a picture of the Savior, and explain Jesus’s teaching that when we show love to others, we are also showing love to Him. Help the children repeat verse 38 with you, a few words at a time.

After reading together Doctrine and Covenants 42:38, help your children think of ways they can serve Jesus by serving others. They can find some ideas from the video “Pass It On” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). They could also look at pictures of the Savior helping others, healing the sick, or being kind to children (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 4247). (Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “41-46”)

Friend December 2016 “A Shining Light”

Friend December 2016

Come Follow Me Kid

You might show your children a Tithing and Other Offerings slip and talk about how to use it to give what we have to bless others (see also “Tithing and Donations Online”).

Friend February 2026 “Food and Fun”

Service Helps Others and Us

Friend April 2021 “For Little Friends”

Friend February 2024 “Tommy’s Very Bad Day” Everything had gone wrong during Tommy’s day and he wanted to just sit so nothing else bad would happen, but that just made him feel worse. Then he saw his neighbor raking leaves and having a hard time putting them in the bag. Tommy decided to help, and pretty soon he was having so much fun he forgot about his bad day.

Service Doesn’t Have to Be Big

Friend April 2022 “Meet Tristan from Canada” You don’t need to do big things to help others.Tristan likes to help in lots of small ways. He gives his mom and dad hugs and kisses when they feel tired. He cleans his room and gathers items for recycling. He prays, and he tries to help everyone feel good. He also sang at his friend’s baptism.

How Can We Help

Friend June 2024 “Serving Those in Need” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is committed to serving those in need. It works with many people to do this. All children of God are inspired to serve one another the best they can.

A good example of service is a man named Mr. Gabriel. He saw that many children in East Africa needed help. He asked other teachers to help him make what they called “tree schools.” Children came to have lessons under the shade of a tree. Mr. Gabriel did not wait for others to do something. He did what he could to help thousands of children learn.

You can make a difference like Mr. Gabriel! Do as many of the activities below as you can. Can you do all 10?

Friend March 2019 “Service Survey”  Questions to ask people to find out how you can help serve them.

Friend February 2019 “Helper Like You” Tell how you could help out in each situation.

Friend January 2018 “Family Night Fun” Hide slips of paper with difficulties someone may be enduring written on them. When someone finds a paper, have them say how they could help that person.

Friend August 2024 “Circle-Toss Game” Each player decorates four paper plates or paper circles so they can tell which is theirs during the game. Use rope or string to mark a big circle on the ground. Stand far away and take turns tossing your plates into the circle. With each turn, say one way you can serve someone. Whoever gets the most plates to land inside the circle wins!

Friend August 2024 “I Can Serve Others”

I Can Help Others by Sharing What I Have Been Given.

The Lord encouraged the Saints in Ohio to help other Saints by sharing their land and their money.

Explain that the Lord commanded the Saints in New York and other areas to gather to Ohio, but many of them didn’t have enough money to build a house when they arrived. Help the children find in Doctrine and Covenants 48:2 what the Lord asked the Saints in Ohio to do to help. Ask the children what they would want to do to help if they were living in Ohio at this time. What have we been given today that we could use to help others?

Friend May 2021 “Pioneers in Every Land: Sam Beazley”Sam loved to build things. He 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.

Friend March 2022 “Jesus Cared for the Sick” Wherever Jesus went, He cared for people who were sick or hurt.

Holy Ghost Can Guide Us

Ensign July 2019 “Family Study Fun”

After His Ascension, the Lord directed his Church through the Holy Ghost. Revelation helped leaders call a new Apostle, spread the gospel, and find those in need. This same practice is followed today.

  1. Scatter pillows, couch cushions, and other soft objects throughout the room.
  2. Assign someone in the family to be the “person in need” at the end of the obstacle course.
  3. Place a blindfold on a member of the family and assign someone else to whisper directions into the person’s ear to guide them safely through the course to the person in need.

Discussion: When was a time you felt directed by the Holy Ghost to help someone else? How did you recognize those promptings? What recent changes have been announced by President Russell M. Nelson and others? How are these changes evidence of the Lord guiding His Church today?

Never too Young to Serve

Friend September 2025 “Five Loaves and Two Fish” A boy gave his five barley loaves, and two small fishes to the Savior. Because he gave all he had to the Savior, many people were fed who were hungry.

You can give too! Draw a picture of a way you can serve others.

Friend November 2017 Sarah helps her little sister when her mom is sick.

Friend November 2017

Friend August 2016 “For Parents of Little Ones” Letting children help when they ask to help teaches them to serve others.

Friend March 2016 Ideas on what to talk about when visiting patients at hospitals or nursing homes.

“Cheer up a Friend” – Ideas of things to make and do for a friend who is sick. Friend February 1984

Friend January 2016 – Our Father lifts us and we can lift and help others.

Friend January 2016 - Our Father lifts us and we can lift and help others.

Friend May 2016  Ideas on how to help family member who is grieving the loss of a loved one

Humanitarian Aid

Friend August 2019 “Elder Rasband Visits Cape Verde” Elder Rasband visited a school were many of the children don’t have parents to take care of them. The Church gives money to help the children’s school that Elder Rasband visited. (Activity: Four children donated money to the Church’s Humanitarian Aid Fund. Follow the shapes along the path to see what each child’s money was used for. (Also includes instructions on how to donate money to humanitarian aid.)

Community Service

Friend May 2022 “Sandy Service” This family is helping clean up the beach. Follow each path! Who picked up the most trash? Who saw the most starfish?

Friend January 2026 “Garden Service” This Primary in New Zealand used their helping hands to pick vegetables at a community garden to share with others. Find the hidden objects below.

Serving Homeless

Friend June 2022 “Jesus Fed the Hungry” A group of boys in Utah, USA, organized a sock drive to help local charities that serve people without homes. They delivered flyers. Then a few days later, they collected socks and money to buy more socks. They were able to donate 750 pairs of socks! (Photo at link)

Service Ideas

Friend January 2026 “The Doorstep Miracle” Sing comforting and uplifting songs (like caroling) to those who are suffering illness or upcoming surgeries.

Friend June 2023 “For Older Kids” Walking dogs is a fun act of service for people who can’t walk their dogs or for people who are out of town. It makes me happy to walk people’s dogs because it makes them so thankful. Alli G., age 11, Nevada, USA

Friend July 2022 “For Older Kids” Simple Service

Friend February 2021 “For Older Kids: Secret Service”

  • Make a homemade gift for someone.
  • Leave a nice note for someone to find.
  • Help a friend or sibling with their schoolwork.

Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon ““Lesson 46: The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ (Christmas)” Service Calendar

  • Make a copy of the calendar for each child to color and take home as a gift for the family. This calendar could be used during the year as a reminder to follow Jesus Christ.
  • Read the ideas to the children and let them choose some they want to do.
  • Make a copy of the calendar and cut out each section. The children can choose those ideas they want to take home as reminders.
  • Using the calendar as a pattern, have the children make their own calendars.
  • Draw the calendar on a poster for display in the classroom.

Friend February 2026 “Food and Fun”

Friend May 2019 “Friends by Mail” Children rake their neighbor’s leaves. (Picture included)

Friend January 2021 “Show and Tell” “I went on a litter-picking walk with my dad and collected 322 pieces of litter! It felt good to make our neighbourhood cleaner and tidier for other people to enjoy.” Sam D., age 8, Suffolk, England

Friend February 2019 “Show and Tell” Our family decided to collect food in our neighborhood for the homeless shelter. My brother and I decorated notes to tell our neighbors about it. A few days later we collected the food. It made me feel happy to help lots of people. Asher W., age 6, Ontario, Canada

Friend July 2018 “Show and Tell” As friends, we wanted to honor the people in our neighborhood who serve our country in the military. We sang patriotic songs and shared cupcakes with them!

Addelyn S., Julianne W., Connor M., Eli S., Ansel S., and Easton M., ages 5, 11, 8, 7, 11, and 6, Missouri, USA

To celebrate Pioneer Day, Primary children of the Lebanon Pennsylvania Ward, USA, and their friends helped refugees close to home by making cards and putting together hygiene, school, and cleaning kits to help welcome them.

Friend June 2018 “Show and Tell” “I was excited to donate 12 inches (30.5 cm) of my hair to make wigs for children with cancer!” Lavona R., age 8, West Java, Indonesia

Friend April 2018 “Furry Fun” Camila and her brother Tomás found a fun and furry way to serve their neighbors! Every Saturday, they walk dogs for people who have a hard time getting around.

Friend April 2018

Friend February 2018 “Show and Tell” I like to serve the sisters in our ward by playing with their children. I love the happy feeling I get from serving! Masha K., age 11, Central Federal District, Russia

Friend January 2018 “Show and Tell” (Click on link to show pictures of the following children.)

We made a paper kindness garden and put a flower or bug sticker on it every time we served or were kind to others. At Christmas, we sent it as a gift to our grandparents who live very far away. Adding stickers reminded us how much we love them! Deltree and Calan A., ages 10 and 8, Victoria, Australia

I fasted for my brother-in-law so he could get a good job. A week later, he got a job! Caden J., age 8, Ohio, USA

At school, I help a friend understand the assignments. Serving my friend helps me feel the love of my Heavenly Father. Allison M., age 9, Santa Ana, El Salvador

I like to play soccer with younger kids and teach them new skills. It is one way I like to serve! Sasha K., age 11, Moscow, Russia

Secret Service

Print the following secret service slips and put them in a jar. Have the children draw one a day or one week to do.

Friend November 2022 “For Older Kids”

Friend September 2022 “For Older Kids”

Friend May 2022 “For Older Kids”

Friend March 2022 “For Older Kids”

Friend January 2022 “For Older Kids”

Friend December 2021 “For Older Kids”

  • Read a story to a younger child.
  • Make a Christmas present for someone in your family.
  • Write thank-you letters to your teachers.

Friend October 2021 “For Older Kids” Secret Service

  • Make a card for your Primary teacher.
  • Call a family member you haven’t seen in a while.
  • Pray to know who needs your help this week.

Friend June 2021 “For Older Kids” Secret Service

  • Write a note or poem for someone telling them how great they are.
  • Say a prayer for someone who is going through a hard time.
  • Multiply your age by two. Then pick up that many pieces of trash!

Friend August 2021 “For Older Kids” Secret Service

  • Surprise a parent by doing something kind for them.
  • Write a letter to a missionary or someone in the military.
  • Forgive your friend or sibling when they do something that upsets you.
Friend February 2017

Child of God: Stories & Poems

Posted on

God is Our Father

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

We Can Become Like Our Heavenly Father

Friend February 2019 “He Wants the Best for Me” Elder Martinez recalls a time his earthly father demonstrated his love by wanting his son to be a better doctor than him when he grew up. This made it easier for Elder Martinez to accept the missionaries teachings that he could become like God because God the Father would want the best for his children. (Activity: Baby animals also grow up to be like their parents. Follow the path from the baby animals to their parents.)

Heavenly Family

Friend July 2016 “No Matter Who You Are” Andi worries because her family aren’t members and they haven’t been sealed in the temple, but her teacher reminds her she is also a child of God.

Heavenly Father Loves All His Children

Friend January 2018 “Am I a Child of God?” Chloe hears the song “I am a Child of God”in Primary and wonders why she wasn’t born to “parents kind and dear,” and wonders whether or not she’s is a child of God. She was adopted out because her original parents weren’t kind.

Friend May 2021 “A Birthday Crown” Wyatt wonders if he is special because he gets to wear a birthday crown on his birthday. His father tells him he is special because he is a child of God and that everyone else is too. When a girl was afraid to go down the slide, Wyatt remembered that everyone is special to Heavenly Father and he encouraged her and praised her.

We Feel His Love When We Pray

Friend February 2017 “Explorer Everett” Everett knows Heavenly Father loves him because He answers Everett’s prayers. Activity: Find the things in the picture that show Heavenly Father and Jesus’s love.

Different but all Children of God

Friend September 2020 “Children of Heavenly Parents” Lisa Harkness of the General Primary Presidency visited the people in Africa. She found that the people of Africa come from many different countries and cultures and they speak many different language, but they are rich in their faith and their knowledge that they are children of God.


Temples: Stories

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Temples Remind Us of Our Heavenly Home

Friend June 2022 “No Place Like Home” Sister Wright tells of her family history and how they lived at the base of the mountain Ben Lomond. Her grandmother would say that as long as they could see the mountain they were home. Sister Wright says temples are like that. When we see the temple it reminds us of our heavenly home, and to be strong, brave, and faithful.

Worthiness

Friend November 2024 “Do I Have to Be Perfect?” His Primary class had been asked to talk about going to the temple. But Henry felt sad. He wanted to go to the temple when he was old enough, but he felt like he made too many mistakes. His teacher told him “Being worthy to go to the temple doesn’t mean you have to be perfect. We can be worthy by trusting Jesus Christ and sincerely trying to keep the commandments. We all make mistakes, but we can repent and be clean again.” The weight of Henry’s worries began to lift. He knew the Holy Ghost was helping him feel peace.

Friend October 2017 “Worthiness Worries” Matthew can’t get the image of an immodestly dressed woman out of his head that he saw on an advertisement. He worries that he isn’t worthy to receive the priesthood (story could apply to temple worthiness worries too).

Sacrifices and Blessings Getting to Temple

Friend October 2021 “Margaret Cummings” Margaret’s family experienced difficulties getting to the temple to be sealed together, but their prayers were answered and they were blessed.

Friend July 2018 “Isabella’s Journey” On their long six day trip to get to the temple, Isabella’s stake members are blessed with help, such as rain when drinking water runs out and member support and food along the journey.

Friend February 2023 “Is God in There?” Elder Vaiangina Sikahema made a very long trip to the temple to be sealed with his family when he was a child. It was worth it to be at God’s house.

Friend August 2021 “Olga Šnederfler” Olga longed to go to the temple but there were no temples close by, and it was too hard to leave her country or even worship. Many years passed before they were able to go to the temple and be sealed. Later her husband became the temple president of the Germany Temple and she became the temple matron.

Friend July 2015 – Boy helps with family history on computer so his parents can do the work at the temple.

Friend July 2015 "Temple Time"

Friend July 2015  – Can feel the Holy Ghost in the temple.

Friend July 2015 "Matt & Mandy"

Friend May 2022 “For Older Kids”

I didn’t feel like going to the temple for my first time. I wanted to sleep in. Then the Holy Ghost prompted me to go, so I went. The next day, the temple closed because of COVID-19. When the temple reopened for baptisms, I got to go again. I’m so grateful for temples and how special they are to me!

Dillon N., age 12, Idaho, USA

Visiting the Temple Grounds

Friend October 2025 “Margo and Paolo: A Holy Place” Margo and Paulo feel peaceful while visiting the temple grounds, and they realize the temple really is a holy place.

Friend October 2021 “A Temple Birthday” Lydia wants to visit the temple for her birthday because it is a happy place.

Friend August 2021 “Taye Visits the Temple”

Friend July 2015 “The Temple Grounds”

Friend July 2015

Friend October 2025 “Sam’s Favorite Things to See”

Temple Prayer Roll

Friend October 2021 “Prayers for Tessa” Tessa felt so angry and sad sometimes and she had a hard time keeping it in; as a result, nobody wanted to play with her. The principal said Tessa had trouble getting along with other kids, and she called Tessa’s mom when Tessa had anger issues at school. Her family was praying for her. Her grandmother told her she even put Tessa’s name on the temple prayer roll. The next time Tessa felt upset at school, she remembered all of the people who were praying for her. That helped her feel a little better. 

Misc

Friend April 2019 Fill in the temple blocks with lesson information, or have the children fill in the blocks with their ideas about the lesson topic.

“Sharing Time: A Temple is the House of the Lord” Friend January 1993

Friend Jan 1993

“Sharing Time: Father We Thank Thee” Friend Dec 1993

“Sharing Time: The Greatest Gift” Friend April 2002

“Sharing Time: Temples and Ordinances” Friend March 1993

“Sharing Time: The Lord Commands His People to Build Temples” Friend Feb 1993 Includes game and images about temple builders called “Who Am I”

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“Sharing Time: A House of God” Friend March 2002

“Sharing Time: The House of the Lord” Friend Nov 1990

“Sharing Time: A Place of Love and Beauty” Friend Jan 2002 – Includes a temple dedication booklet to make.

“Sharing Time: The Temple is a Place of Revelation” Friend May 1993

 

*Friend July 2015 “What do we do in the Temple?” (Picture and explanation of different rooms in temple.)

Temple Work for the Dead

Friend April 2025 “Friends around the World” My family went to the temple to do the temple work for my grandpa who died. We waited outside while my dad was baptized for him. After my dad came out of the temple, I could feel my grandpa was happy. Marjhory B., age 9, Catalonia, Spain

Temple Sealings

Friend September 2025 “Because of the Temple” Graham is sealed to his family in the temple. A few days later a big windstorm came where he lived. Graham was scared. His mom reminded him of the peaceful feeling he had at the temple. He remembered that because of Jesus Christ and temple covenants, they could be a family forever. And because he knew that, everything really would be OK.

What about Divorce?

Friend October 2025 “Justina’s Question” Justina went to a temple dedication with her mother and grandmother. As they sat in the sealing room, her grandmother explained that is where families are sealed together forever. Justina thought about her family. Her parents were divorced. And she knew they hadn’t been sealed in the temple. It scared her to think that she couldn’t be with her family forever because they weren’t sealed. As she sang the song at the end of the dedication she felt the Holy Ghost telling her everything would be okay. She had faith that God loved her and her family very much. She knew she could trust Him.


Media: Stories

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Media Can be Used for Good

Friend April 2017 The kids on my bus are really inappropriate, and I used to dread getting on the bus. My older sister let me borrow her MP3 player full of Church songs, and now I don’t dread going on the bus, as long as I have the MP3 player and some Church magazines. I am really glad the Church can help me stay on the right path. Savannah N., age 11, Arizona, USA

Media Affects Us

Friend August 2016 “Matt and Mandy” Mandy learns it is hard to get rid of things in the brain that we see and hear.

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Friend June 2025 ” A Scary Show” Caio got scared and couldn’t sleep after watching a scary show. His mother tells him. His mother said, “When you see a video that scares you or makes you uncomfortable, it’s important to turn it off and then come tell me.” She reported the video because it shouldn’t be shown to children.

Courage to Choose the Right Media

Friend August 2020 “Choosing the Channel” Camille’s best friend told her about a funny TV show, but it had some bad words in it so she turned it off. Camille was afraid to tell her friend that she didn’t watch it. They were best friends that did everything together and liked the same things. She was afraid they wouldn’t be friends anymore. But her friend was supportive of her choice and said they could find a show they both liked. 

Friend February 2024 “True Friends?” Henry’s friends did things that made him uncomfortable like watching bad videos. He was afraid to say anything because he didn’t want to be alone and friendless. His mom told him that true friends help you do what’s right. The next time they watched a bad video he said he didn’t want to watch it. His friends made fun of him and said mean things about him. “Is this what true friends would do?,” Henry thought. He left and felt peaceful. He realized he wasn’t alone. The Holy Ghost was with him.

Bad Media: Turn it off and tell your parents.

Friend June 2025 ” A Scary Show” Caio got scared and couldn’t sleep after watching a scary show. His mother tells him. His mother said, “When you see a video that scares you or makes you uncomfortable, it’s important to turn it off and then come tell me.” She reported the video because it shouldn’t be shown to children.

Spending Too Much Time on Media

Friend June 2025 “The Watch Problem” William was spending so much time playing games on his new phone that he didn’t play with his friend Liam anymore. When he told his mom that Liam didn’t want to be friends anymore, his mom hugged him and said, “I know you care about Liam, but the way we spend our time can show what we think is most important.” William didn’t want Liam to think he didn’t care about him, so he made a plan to play with his friend and only play on his watch a little bit when he was at home.

Satan tries to Distract Us

For the Strength of Youth June 2026 “The Game”

Video Games

Friend October 2022 “Video Game Stoplight” Nathan is missing out on family time and he isn’t getting his work done because he gets caught up in video games. His mom and dad help him make a plan to balance things out better.

Friend September 2020 “Video Game Explosion” After losing to his brother in a video game car race, Jared felt frustrated and kicked the wall and made a hole in it. Then he was scared about what his mom and Dad would say. He prayed for help, and he and his parents tried to figure out what made him feel so frustrated and angry. They all decided maybe he should cut back on video games for awhile. He was glad to have a good feeling again.

Friend June 2018 “Bedtime For Felix” Anton can’t wait to get back to his game, but he has to put his baby brother to bed first. As he snuggled with his brother he realized he felt the happiest he had been all day.

Friend April 2017 “Game Changer” Caleb wants to play his online game with his friends, but some players are using bad words. Caleb feels like it is hard to have to make different choices than his friends, but the Holy Ghost comforts him and helps him see that the game was getting addicting.

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.

Friend August 2016 “The Hidden Video Game” Ava’s big brother doesn’t feel good about a video game they are playing so he wants to get rid of it.

Friend February 2019 “Monster Quest” A boy learns it’s more fun to go on a pretend monster quest than it is to play the video game Monster Quest.

Friend June 2015 Building a fort instead of playing video games.

Friend June 2015

Television and Movies

Friend September 2015 “Flipping Channels”  Girl feels guilty watching a movie with bad ratings and tries to hide that she is watching it.

Friend September 2015 - Girl feels guilty watching a movie with bad rating and tries to hide that she is watching it.

Friend November 2018 “Sister Date”  Rachel and Brianna have a bad fight over which tv show to watch. The older sister, Brianna, decides they need to go on sister date and have some fun time together, and this quality time helps them become best friends again.

Books

Friend October 2019 “Should I Keep Reading?” While Brooklyn is reading a book about a girl who started a blog, the girl took the Lord’s name in vain. Brooklyn didn’t feel very good when she read that, but she kept reading hoping it was just a one time thing, but it wasn’t. Brooklyn stopped reading and took the book back to the library. She felt glad that she had followed the “My Gospel Standards” about only reading and watching things that are pleasing to Heavenly Father.

Friend June 2016 “Goodbye to Scary Stories” Reading scary books makes a girl feel anxious and scared so she gets rid of them.

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Friend June 2023 “Margo and Paolo” When Paulo began to read his library book, he didn’t feel good because it had some bad parts in it, so he stopped reading it. The Holy Ghost was warning him of spiritual danger.

Phones

Friend November 2020 “Conference Notes” Sister Craig felt the Holy Ghost tell her to stop looking at her phone in line at the store. One day she noticed an elderly man in front of her in line. He said it was his birthday, but nobody else knew. She was glad she took the time to notice others. This teaches me:

Friend March 2019 “The No-Phone Zone” At a family reunion, Tyler’s grandmother has everyone put their phones in a basket before dinner. At dinner (and after dinner), Tyler listened to all the family stories. He learned more about his dad as a child. He didn’t think about his phone at all. He told his grandma it was the best dinner ever.

Scrolling

Friend March 2024 “Janeelyn Stops Scrolling” Janeelyn was watching videos on the phone. Most were good, but some had bad things in them. Janeelyn started to feel like she should stop watching them, but she really wanted to see the next video. And the next. And the next. She had a hard time stopping even though the Holy Ghost had prompted her. She said a prayer asking for help. Her mom helped her, and they decided she would only watch videos when she was watching with her mom and dad.

Pornography

Friend June 2023 “The Bad Website” While on the internet, Kevin clicked on a website link and found it had pictures of people without clothes. He was curious, so he looked and felt sick. The bad feeling didn’t go away. He realized the Holy Ghost had helped him know he shouldn’t look at the pictures and that he should talk to his mom about it. He and his mom came up with a computer safety plan together.

Friend October 2022 “Speaking Up at Soccer Camp” A boy walks away when other kids are showing pornography on a phone.

Friend June 2025 “Ethan’s Computer Secret” Ethan saw some pornographic images online and didn’t tell his parents. The next day he thought about the pictures and was curious, so he looked for more images. Pretty soon he was spending hours looking at images. Ethan felt bad every time he looked at the pictures. He wanted to stop. But he didn’t know how. One day his father asked if he had seen any pornography. He was able to talk to his father about it and his father helped give him counsel about turning to the Savior for help. Ethan was able to say a prayer with his father, and he asked for forgiveness and help.

For Kids: What Should I Do If I See Pornography?

  1. Immediately put down whatever device you are using and move away from it.
  2. Go tell a parent or adult you trust.
  3. Remember that Heavenly Father loves you! You can always pray to Him for peace and help. He can send you comfort through the Holy Ghost.
  4. If you still don’t feel good, read scriptures or sing a hymn or Primary song. Go find friends, siblings, or a parent to play with.
  5. Make a plan with a trusted adult about what to do in the future when you see pornography. You may want to hang up these posters by your computer.

If you have looked at pornography or searched for it, it’s never too late to take these steps. Remember, Heavenly Father loves you! He wants you to pray to Him.

Internet Safety

Friend October 2020 “Chat-Box Mess” Myra accepted someone she didn’t know as a friend on an online game she was playing. She quickly regretted her decision when he began asking personal questions. Then the person began sending her bad messages. She told her dad and he was able to block the him and report him. He reminded her that it was safer to only play with kids she knows.

Emails and Texts

Friend April 2019 “The Right Reply” Emily received a mean email from a friend. She wanted to send a not-so-nice reply, but her mom suggested she wait and little bit. While she waited, she saw a picture of Jesus. She remembered that people had been mean to him, but he was never mean back. She decided to follow Jesus and not send the mean reply.

Friend April 2023 “The Big, Bad, Rotten Text” Zach got mad at his older sister and sent a mean text to her on his mom’s phone, but he sent it to the wrong Rachel. The person who received it helped him realize that it was important to use his words to say kind things, not to hurt others.

Computers

Online Bullying

Friend September 2018 “Cyberbash” Kaela’s friend posted a picture online of herself  being funny and goofy with her checks full of cereal like a chipmunk. Kaela was shocked when she saw mean comments about the picture. She lets her friend know that those comments were wrong, and she tells her mom about the bullying.

Pornography

Friend October 2015 “Standing Strong”  Boy leaves when other boys are viewing pornography but is later teased.

Friend June 2018 “Filter Fail” While researching on the internet for a school paper a picture of a naked person pops up. Kylie is shocked and feels guilty because she can’t get the image out of her mind. She talks to her parents and they help her see that it wasn’t her fault, and they tell her that filling her mind with goood things will help push the bad things out.

Friend August 2017 “The Bad Picture” A boy shows Taran a bad picture from a magazine, but Taran lets him know that he doesn’t look at things like that. He also tells his mom about what happened. His family celebrates and talk about his good decision.

Limiting Time

Friend March 2021 “The Adventures Just Outside” After playing a math game on her tablet for a long time, Rylee’s mom explained that doing math is good for her brain, but too much screen time isn’t good for her brain, or for the rest of her body. They decide to go for a walk to the park, and Rylee finds lots of things to do that helps her brain grow stronger.

Listen to the Spirit

Friend September 2017 “For Older Kids” By McKay H., age 9, Utah, USA “One night as I was watching TV, a show came on that I had never seen before. I got a dark feeling inside. Then a very still, small voice told me to turn off the TV. After that I went to play a Primary song on the piano.”

Individual Stories

Friend August 2015 “Show & Tell” Two children make good choices about media.

Friend August 2016 “Show & Tell”  A boy shuts off a game when he hears inappropriate language.

Friend July 2018 “Show and Tell” I was playing with a friend who showed me a video. At first it was funny, but then a character said a bad word. When I hear bad words, it feels bad in my body, so I asked him if we could do something else. He said OK. I felt happy inside! Javaan F., age 9, North Carolina, USA


Work & Responsibility: Stories

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Table of Contents

Friend March 2021 “Working Together” Caleb works hard with his mom cleaning out the weeds so they can plant a garden.

Friend August 1988 “Allie’s Choice” Allie shows she is responsible while her mother is away by taking care of work instead of going to a horse show and she is than allowed the responsibilty of boarding a horse.

Making Work Fun

Friend January 2022 “Songs and Soap Bubbles” Alice has a lot of responsibility helping with her five younger siblings. One of her chores is to do the dishes. She decides to make doing the dishes fun by learning hymns as she does them. The hymns help her feel peace in her busy, noisy life.

Friend October 2016 “Matt and Mandy” Matt and Mandy have a big chore of raking leaves, but they add some fun and surprise their parents.

Friend August 2019 “Matt and Mandy” Matt and Mandy decide to surprise their mom by cleaning their rooms the night before. It goes fast because they work together and the surprise is fun. They want to surprise her by doing other chores too.

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

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Friend July 2016  “Ryan the Unstoppable Reader” Ryan has a reading disability and has to spend his summer working on his reading, but his hard work pays off and his reading level increases.

Friend April 1983– interview with Paul H Dunn. His father had him work for any spending money.

Friend May 1988 “Sweet Peas” Children grow vegetables in a garden to sell and make spending money.

Friend February 1987 “Blake’s Lucky Socks” Ethan studies hard to win a spelling bee. His friend, Ethan, doesn’t study but thinks he’ll win because he’s wearing his lucky socks.

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Friend May 2016 “The Laundry Monster” It’s time to help put laundry in a basket, but Ana wants to keep playing. Her guilt grows.

Friend February 2016 “Happy Faces” Easton earns happy faces on a bedtime chart. Link includes chart. Parent Information 

Friend June 1987 “Lipstick and Hot Chocolate” Tanya finds that baby-sitting to earn dance lessons is more difficult than expected, but she is responsible and fixes her mistakes.

Careers

Friend August 2016 “When I Grow Up” Rosemary starts her own business designing temple dresses. It takes discipline, study, and prayer to make it work.

Friend March 2019 “Becoming Dr. Cannon” Mattie Hughes was excited when she heard Brigham Young encouraging women to become doctors. She worked hard and saved her money so she could go to medical school. Eventually she became a doctor and helped many people.

Cooperation

Friend January 2018 “Matt and Mandy” Mandy and her friend both have to practice piano. They work together and it makes it fun. Then they both try to do their own thing and it turns out terrible.

Pet Care

Friend June 2018 “Stacie’s Puppy” Stacie takes care of her puppy.


Priesthood: Stories

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Boys and Men Receive the Priesthood

Friend April 2018 “The Priesthood and Me” Journal entries from a girl who wonders why only boys receive the priesthood. She learns that both boys and girls use priesthood power for their callings and responsibilities.

Receiving the Priesthood

Friend May 2017 “Awesome! Robert receives the Aaronic Priesthood and learns about the line of authority.

Friend June 2016 “Was I Ready” A boy prays to know if he is ready to receive the priesthood.

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Worthiness
Friend October 2017 “Worthiness Worries” Matthew can’t get the image of an immodestly dressed woman out of his head that he saw on an advertisement. He worries that he isn’t worthy to receive the priesthood. His mother helps him remember that the Savior took on himself all our difficulties and he can help us.

Duties of the Priesthood

Friend November 2015 “Priesthood Power” Bobby learns that the priesthood is about serving people.

Friend November 2015

Friend January 2016 President Monson fulfilled his deacon duties by taking the sacrament to a home bound man and by being a good secretary.

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Passing the Sacrament

Friend February 2025 “Peace during the Sacrament”Te Rakiwas nervous to pass the sacrament for the first time. His friend taught him what to do. He felt happy after he passed the sacrament because the sacrament allows everyone to renew their covenants, and it feels amazing to help others.

Friend November 2020 “Help Passing the Sacrament” Brayden was almost old enough to pass the sacrament, but he didn’t know how he was going to do it because he used a walker to help him walk. But then the other deacons volunteered to take turns pushing him in his transport chair so he could carry a tray. He was glad to be part of such a great deacons quorum!

Friend January 2023 “Representing Jesus” The older boys were going to show David and the other 11-year-old boys how to pass the sacrament. David was nervous because his autism sometimes made it hard for him to learn new things, but he practiced and had lots of help.

Father’s Blessings

Friend September 2025 “Back-to-School Blessing” A girl is worried about starting school and not being able to do math. Her father asks if she would like a priesthood blessing. When school started, her mom asked how school was. The girls said, “Good. I was able to concentrate in math, just like Dad said in my blessing.”

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 had helped him.

Friend June 2019 “A New Chapter” Sarah’s dad died in an accident and she and her mom had to move to a new place. Sarah is sad a lot and she is also worried about not knowing anyone in church or school. She would like a blessing, but her dad isn’t there to give her one. Her mom suggests her uncle give the blessing. After the blessing, Sarah quickly makes friends at church and school.

Friend September 2017 “Moresby the Brave” Moresby is worried about starting school, so his father gives him a blessing. Moresby’s day goes well, and he is even brave enough to help someone else who is having a hard time on their first day.

Friend February 2016 “You are Special” In Emma’s blessing from her father, Emma gets a message from Heavenly Father.

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Friend June 2018 “Twin Jitters” Kaylee is nervous about getting baptized. She worries about being dropped or not being able to breath. Her twin brother is also nervous. Her grandmother suggests they get a blessing from their father. Afterwards they feel much better.

Healing Blessings

Friend August 2024 “Margo and Paolo” Margo and Paulo and receive a blessing but don’t feel better afterwards. Their mother tells them to be patient, that sometimes blessings from the Lord take time, but she is sure He heard their prayers. A few days later they are healthy and strong again.

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 August 2021 “Peace through Priesthood Power” When Elder Steven R. Bangerter was a child, he had gamma globulin anemia which made it hard for his body to fight off germs, so he got sick a lot. One night he had an earache so bad that he thought his head would explode. He father gave him a blessing and he was able to sleep through the night and feel better the next day. The next few year his father continued to give him priesthood blessings. He taught him that those blessings were opportunities for Heavenly Father to speak to him.

Friend August 2021 “The Power of a Priesthood Blessing” Russell M. Nelson gave a very sick doctor a priesthood blessing when they were in Mexico and not near any medical facilities. The next morning he was feeling better.

Friend March 2020 “Hayfields and Priesthood Blessings” When Elder Gerard was a boy, he lived on a farm. The dust from the hay sometimes made him sick because of his allergies. One windy summer day there was a lot of dust in the air and he was having a hard time breathing. His mother brought him in and had two farmers who were members of church give him a priesthood blessing.  As they blessed him, he felt warm, peaceful, and calm.

Friend October 2019 “Matt and Mandy” Matt hurt his arm and needs surgery. He asks to get a blessing before the surgery.

Friend February 2017 “Danger at the Ice Pond” Alice tries to help push the blocks of ice in the pond, but the ice she is standing on cracks and breaks. Her father rushes her home and gives her a priesthood blessing and she has no ill effects.

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.

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Friend May 2016 “Bad Day in the Badlands” Topher and his classmates get sick on a school trip. Topher gets a priesthood blessing.

Friend May 2016
Friend May 2016

Friend April 2018  “I got sick when my dad was on a business trip. My mom called Brother Hillstrom and Brother Judkins, and they gave me a blessing. They told me that the priesthood was real and Heavenly Father could help me get better. I knew that I might not get better right away, but I would get well soon. I love the priesthood.”

Sienna P., age 8, Utah, USA

Baby Blessings

Friend June 2019 “Baby’s Blessing Day”  Kate learns that a baby blessing is special when her baby sister gets blessed.

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Blessings Without a Father

Priesthood Ordinations and Organization

Bishops

The First Bishops

Doctrine and Covenants 41

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 17: Edward Partridge Is Called as the First Bishop,” Click on link to find additional teaching ideas

In early 1831, almost a year after the Church was organized, many people were joining the Church and gathering in Ohio, as the Lord had commanded. As the Church grew, Joseph Smith needed additional leaders to help with the work of the Church. The Church was facing many financial (money-related) challenges. Many of the Saints who gathered to Kirtland were poor. They had no land or money and little food, clothing, or other things that were necessary for them to live. The Church also needed money to build a temple and to publish written materials such as revelations and missionary pamphlets. The Prophet himself did not have a home or a way to provide for his family, and other Church leaders who were serving in the Church full-time also needed help in supporting their families.

The Prophet asked the Lord what should be done to provide for all of these needs. In February 1831 the Prophet received a revelation calling Edward Partridge, who had only been a member of the Church for two months, to serve as the first bishop of the Church. The bishop’s first responsibility was to help the Prophet provide for the physical and financial needs of the members of the Church. Joseph Smith received other revelations in the next few months that helped Bishop Partridge know what else he was to do as bishop.

Bishop Partridge was asked to help provide the needy members of the Church with food, clothing, and shelter (see D&C 42:30–31, 34). Members who had extra food or other supplies were asked to share with those who did not have enough. Bishop Partridge received and distributed these donations, keeping them in a storehouse where members in need could come.

Another duty given to Bishop Partridge was to purchase and distribute land for individual homes and Church buildings (see D&C 42:35).

Ensign April 2021 “How can we be like Edward Partridge?” Edward Partridge was the first bishop of the restored Church of Jesus Christ. With his firm testimony, he was willing to sacrifice everything he had and endure hardship after hardship, for he knew the Church to be true.

Friend March 2017 “My Dad the Bishop” Syrena was surprised when her dad was called as bishop because she thought bishops were solemn and had perfect families, but she learns that they are men with strong testimonies.


Blessings & Gratitude: Stories & Poems

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Count Your Blessings

Friend November 2018 “Matt and Mandy” A regular meal turns into a Thanksgiving type meal when the family expresses things they are grateful for.

Friend November 2018 “Count Your Blessings” Jacy can’t sleep. Her father comes in when he hears her crying. He suggests that she sing a song and then count her blessings. Thinking about her blessings helps her relax and sleep.

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Friend June 2024 “Count Your Blessings” Arkin and his dad happily sang “Count Your Blessings” as they sold smoked fish so they would have enough money to pay for a ride to church on Sunday, a two hour walk away. They happily sang more hymns as they walked two hours to the church to clean it on Saturday. Arkin’s family didn’t have much, but his heart felt joyful and thankful as he thought of all his blessings.

Friend November 2017 “The Blessing Fish” A family learns the story of the disciples that caught a net full of fish after Jesus told them where to cast their nets. The children realize that the fish are a blessing to Peter’s family. They talk about the blessings their family has been given.

Friend November 2017 “Sincerely, Maisy: A Muddy Thanksgiving” Maisy feels she has a lot to be grateful for after helping a family at Thanksgiving whose house was being flooded.

Gratitude Jar

Friend November 2020 “The Thankful Jar” At school, the kids got to say one thing they were thankful for and put it in a jar. Henry couldn’t think of just one, so he wanted to make a thankful jar at home and fill it up.

Gratitude Journal

Friend November 2020 “Matt and Mandy Matt and Mandy wonder how the people in the Book of Mormon kept getting wicked again and again after they were blessed so much. They decided to write a gratitude journal so they wouldn’t forget all their blessings.

Friend November 2022 “Matt and Mandy” Mandy makes lists of all the things and people she is thankful for.

Gratitude for Nature

Friend March 2017 “Raining!” Rain makes the earth clean and beautiful. Water helps us in many ways.

Gratitude During Adversity (seeing blessings)

Friend November 2020 “120 Happy People” A family does a service project every year on the birthday of their baby who died because serving helps them feel thankful for what they have, and when they feel thankful, then happiness replaces the sad feelings. For this years project they decide to thank you notes to people every day and help 120 people feel happy.

Friend November 2019 “Matt and Mandy”  Matt broke his arm and had to have surgery. He keeps his sense of humor through the whole ordeal. At Thanksgiving he shares all the things he is grateful for in regards to what happened to his arm; he’s grateful for doctors, priesthood blessings, learning to do hard things, that his injury wasn’t worse, etc.

Friend November 2019 “Searching for Sir Crunch-a-Lot” Mackenzie’s family shop at the bishop’s storehouse for their food because they don’t have much money after her dad lost his job. Mackenzie wishes she didn’t have to eat boring food like granola instead of her favorite cereal brand, and sandwiches instead of pizza at school. But then she finds out that a friend sitting next to her isn’t eating lunch because she is fasting for a family member. Mackenzie realizes how hard it must be to fast, and she is grateful for all the people who fast and give fast offerings so she and her family don’t go hungry. (Refreshment Idea: Friend November 2019 “Family Night Fun: Gratitude Granola” Have family members say something they’re grateful for as they add each ingredient!

Friend November 2016 “Pie-crust Cabins” When Robbin’s great grandmother was young, her family didn’t have much at Thanksgiving, so they made pie crust cabins with what they had to remind them of their blessings. It became a family tradition.

Friend October 2017 “Bread and Gratitude” A man at a restaurant always find some fault in the meal no matter what the waiter provides.  “As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are commanded to “thank the Lord [our] God in all things” (D&C 59:7). If we focus on the blessings we think we are missing, it can make us unhappy.“

Friend October 2017 “Bread and Gratitude” Fill in the blank story about a boy who has a terrible day, but after a dream he realizes he is grateful for all those things that had been difficult the day before.

Friend March 1987 “Fruit for Hernando” Hernando and his family has very little, but he realizes they are blessed.

Friend Nov. 1985 “Something of Value” After her father loses his job, Janie learns that there are more important things than possessions and that she has many blessings.

Friend Nov. 2015 “Sweeter then Pie” Tally gets sick before her school party, but she has good friends that remember her.

Saying Thank You

Friend November 2020 “Thankful Thea” Thea says thank you whenever her mom and dad do something for her.

Friend May 2019 “The Gratitude Goal” Kate’s favorite scripture story was the story of the ten lepers. She couldn’t believe that out of the ten people Jesus healed, only one said thank you! She’d made it a goal ever since to always say thank you,  even when she was stressed and worried about such things as making the soccer team.

Friend July 2018 “Thank You!” Action rhyme about remembering to say thank you when someone helps you.

Friend June 2023 “The Kindness Coin” Nina gave her neighbor free lemonade at her stand as a thank you for all the help he had given to her family. Her neighbor was so kind though that he put it on the porch for her to find. Nina and her neighbor went back and forth finding places to put the coin at each other’s houses. It was a fun game. But then the neighbor had the coin made into a necklace for Nina.

Friend June 2023 “The Kindness Coin” Nina gave her neighbor free lemonade at her stand as a thank you for all the help he had given to her family. Her neighbor was so kind though that he put it on the porch for her to find. Nina and her neighbor went back and forth finding places to put the coin at each other’s houses. It was a fun game. But then the neighbor had the coin made into a necklace for Nina.

Friend February 2018 “Grateful Gifts”  A man in Alice’s ward gives her and her sister a flute as a thank you for playing the piano for Sacrament meetings. Alice loves the gift and learns a song to play for the man to show her appreciation.(Article includes photos of the people and of the special flute)

Friend November 1986 “My Thank-You Song” Poem about saying thank-you.

Blessing of Teachers

Friend September 2015 “Sister Pettigrew’s Lesson”  – link includes thank you note to write to teacher

Friend September 2015

Blessing of Freedom

Friend July 1988 “Grandpa Max’s Flag” Scott’s grandfather puts up a US flag everyday because he immigrated from a country where the people didn’t have freedom; they were taxed and imprisoned unfairly or forced to join the military.


Honesty & Integrity: Stories

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Take this quiz to think about how you can be honest with yourself and others.

Lying

Friend September 2019 “The Shaving Mistake” When Elder Allen D. Haynie was nine years old he thought he could grow a mustache if he shaved, so he used his father’s razor for several days. One day his father saw him shaving and warned him not to do that because he could get cut. He disobeyed and did it again. The razor slipped and cut above his lip. He lied to his father about what happened and felt terrible, so he told his father the truth. He learned to tell the truth from that experience. (Activity: Use the code to fill in the blanks with the right letters. It makes the message “I can be brave by telling the truth.”)

Friend September 2024 “Margo and Paolo” Margo and Paolo drop the lemonade and they blame it on their bird. But then they confess that it was their fault. They fix it by cleaning it up and making more.

Not Charged Enough

Deciding to Be Honest

Friend August 2020 “How Do You Spell Honesty” When Elder Timothy J. Dyches was in six grade he hadn’t missed a spelling word all year long. If he kept getting perfect scores, I would receive an award for spelling at the end of the year. Then he noticed that he had missed a word on a spelling test that was incorrectly graded. He was honest and told his teacher about it.

Friend July 2019 “Score One for Honesty” Eli needed to practice his throwing because he had a football game coming up, but it was raining outside. Even though it was against the rules, he decided to practice inside with his brother while his mom was at the store. But disaster strikes when one of his throws hits the shelf with his mother’s fancy dishes on it. He tries to fix the broken dishes but it doesn’t work. He thinks about hiding what happened, but he decides to be honest and tell the truth so he can honor his priesthood.

Friend April 2019 “Sweet Honesty” Trying to get a taste of sugar, Arlen accidentally knocks the sugar jar off a high shelf when she is left in charge of the house. She considers not telling her mom that she spilled all the sugar, but decides to be honest.

Friend March 2019 “Being Honest is Best” Verity’s name means truth. She feels good when she is honest and truthful. (Activity: Circle the letters used to spell TRUTH in the picture below. Then practice writing the word TRUTH.)

Friend September 2018 “Stickers Everywhere” Carey found a package of stickers in a bag on the counter and opened them and stuck them all over the house. When her mom finds what Carey did she is upset because the stickers were for Carey’s brother’s birthday party, but Carey is honest and tells her mom that she did it. Her mom tells her to ask next time, but she is proud of Carey for being honest.

Friend June 1988 “Treasures” Amy accidently breaks one of Sister Pedersons glass treasures. She buys a glass swan to replace the one that broke and then she tells Sister Pedersons what she did.

The Helpers – Cindy tells her mom the truth after breaking a pot, even though her mom thinks the baby did it. Friend March 1987

Winnie Wins – A girl is tempted to cheat in a geography test to beat a boy who teases her. Friend May 1984

The Raid – A boy shows it’s better to be honest and ask to pick the cherries than it is to take them. Friend July 1985

The Compliment Tree – Betsy gets a branch on the compliment tree for doing well on a test, but she discovers a mistake on the test. She doesn’t want to lose her branch, but she is honest and tells the teacher. Friend February 1986

The Last Coin – Laura wants to be honest in achieving the swimming lesson requirements even though her friend wants her to cut corners. Friend August 1986

Friend March 2016 “Honesty Geography” During a geography test, Julie tells the teacher about a map accidentally left on the board.

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Friend January 1987 “Jason’s Courage” Jason accidentally breaks a church window. He learns it takes courage to be honest.

I Believe in Being Honest and True

Friend February 2023 “The Egg Mess” Sasha learned a part of the 13th Article of Faith; “I believe in being honest.” She remembers that part after she and her brother make a mess with eggs while playing a game with them. They tell their mother the truth, that they made the mess and will clean it up.

Finders Keepers?

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.

Friend September 2024 “Lost and Found Pencils” A girl finds some nice colored pencils on the floor at school and takes them home. Her mom reminds her that someone is probably sad because they lost them. So the next day she takes them and puts them in the lost and found.

Helping Others Be Honest

Friend March 2017 “Sliding from the Truth” Tori’s lab partner accidentally broke a slide and wants to lie about it to the teacher. Tori helps him tell the truth.

Exaggerating

Friend February 2023 “Big Stories” Beckham tells others about things he has done, but he exaggerates to make it sound cooler.

Cheating

Friend April 2017 “Cheating is Poisonous” Annmarie has a hard time spelling poisonous and is tempted to cheat on a spelling test, but she realizes cheating would be poisonous to her spirit.

Friend March 2022 “Matt and Mandy” Matt studies hard for a test and won’t let a friend cheat off him because then he would be cheating too. He offers to help his friend study for the next test.

Friend February 2024 “Margo and Paulo” Margo refuses to go along with her friends plan to cheat on a test.

Friend February 2026 “The Cheetah Chase Lie” Emma really wanted a cheetah sticker, but you had to correctly do 93 math problems in 5 minute, and it was really hard. If you get five stickers, you win a prize! During the test, Emma hid her paper with her hand, like she had done other times, and she kept writing answers even after the timer went off, but her teacher saw her. Then she lied to her teacher about it. She felt terrible. When her mom asked what was wrong, she told her what happened. Emma prayed for forgiveness and then wrote her teacher an email telling her the truth. She felt warm inside and was glad she decided to repent.

Stealing

Friend October 2018 “Toy-Truck Trouble”  When Nate was walking home from school he saw trucks in a sandbox. Everyday he put a different color truck in his pocket and took it home. He felt bad but wanted to collect the trucks. Then one day a woman found him taking a truck. She asked if he knew where the other trucks were. Nate went home and got them and brought them back. The boy asked if he’d like to play, and Nate had the best time.

Friend May 1987 “Ben & the Birthday Thief” Ben’s friend steals a watch to give to Ben as a birthday gift. What does Ben do?

Friend July 2022 “Matt and Mandy” Mandy’s friend steals some fruit and offers it to Mandy. Mandy said she can’t take it because she wouldn’t feel good about it. They decide to return the fruit.

We are Trusted when We are Honest

Friend September 2018 “Map Champ” During a map game at school, Linda doesn’t hear the teacher because the kids are being too loud. Her teacher trusts her because she doesn’t lie, and the teacher gives her another chance.

Friend March 2022 “The Snack-Stand Superheroes” Some boys find a box of candy bars under the bleachers. They decide to do the right thing and take it to the snack stand owner to see if it belongs to him.

Repenting of Being Dishonest

Fiend July 2021 “The Honesty Question” Christy was nominated for an outstanding citizen award, but she had to fill out some questions about the good things she does in the community. She ran out of ideas and decides to write what she plans on doing. She didn’t feel good inside after turning in her answers. She repents and goes to the office to make things right the next day.

Friend July 2025 “Money at the Market” Anane was asked by his mom to deliver some money to his uncle. As he passed the market he saw his favorite treats. He bought them and hoped his uncle wouldn’t notice the missing money. But when he got home, and his mother asked how it went, he started feeling guilty. At church, his teacher talked about making good choices and obeying parents, and he felt guilty again. After church he told his parents what he had done. His father was proud of him for being honest.


Friendship: Stories

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Friendship is the Best Gift

Friend September 2018 “The Candy Bar“ Ben is invited the Dante’s birthday party, but his family doesn’t have money to buy gifts, so they get Dante a candy bar. Dante expresses his appreciation for the gift and that he is glad that he and Ben are friends. Friendship is the best gift.

Not Alike, but Friends

Friend July 2019 “The Perfect Match” Maggie loved to match things. When she saw a blond girl sitting sadly alone, she tried to friendship her with a friend that was also blond. Later, her father asked Maggie why she didn’t play with Anna. Then he reminded her that we need to love others as Jesus did, and that it didn’t matter whether we looked the same or thought in the the same ways.

Finding Friends

Pray for Help

Friend December 2017 “Signs of Friendship” Conner has a hard time finding a friend, and his mother suggests he pray about it. A boy that is deaf moves into the neighborhood. Conner realizes the boy must be lonely too, so Conner learns some sign language and goes and introduces himself.

Friend October 2019 “The Phone Call” Mackenzie is lonely after her best friend moves. She prays for help, and Heavenly Father blesses her to find a new best friend.

Friend April 2022 “For Older Kids” (Includes a photo)

Before I moved, I didn’t have many friends. I thought things would be the same in my new city. I prayed and asked my Heavenly Father to help me find good friends. He did! I am grateful I can pray and share my deepest feelings with my Heavenly Father.

Sydnee G., age 12, Idaho, USA

Friend February 2023 “Lost and Found Friends” Leah didn’t know anyone in her new class. She hoped she could make a friend. A girl named Anna sat next to and asked if Leah wanted to be friends. They were good friends through the year and played together every day. Then Anna started acting strange and not talking to her. When asked why, Anna said her new friend said Leah was weird and she didn’t think they could hang out anymore. Leah was hurt, but soon school ended and she was busy with lots of activities hanging out with her best friend. School was about to start and Leah was worried about not having a friend. She kept praying for help. Then on the first day of school she found that her best friend was in her class. Heavenly Father had helped her.

To Get a Friend, Be a Friend

Friend October 1988 “Friends for the Asking” Trent had lots of friends before he moved, now he doesn’t know anybody and his birthday party is coming up. He learns that he needs try harder and put some effort into making friends.

Friend September 1986 “Two for Lunch” A girl wants someone to eat lunch with at school. Her mom tells her to look around and find someone eating alone and invite them.

Friend April 2017 “Star Shines” Star is a new member of the church and is anxious because she has never been to Primary before and doesn’t know anyone. She sees another girl that looks anxious too, and Star invites her to sit with her. The two new girls now both have a friend.

Friend August 2018 “Finding a Friend” Christy’s family had just moved, and she didn’t know anyone at her new school. At recess no one came to play with her. It seemed like all the friends were taken. One day she helped someone who was hurt and they became friends. She learned that to get a friend you have to be a friend.

Serving Others Can Lead to Friendship

Friend April 2022 “Matt and Mandy”

Look for Things in Common

Friend February 2023 “Recess Friends” Jason didn’t like to play soccer, so he read books during recess, but he wanted to have fun with friends too. He noticed two other kids not playing soccer and wondered if they prefered quiet things too. He suggested they all play checkers together during recess.

Be Kind

Friend June 2024 “What We Can Give” Aliya’s class went on a school trip to a nature preserve. She was excited to learn about the animals, but she was new and didn’t know how to make a friend. The class helped clean the ponds because they learned It’s about what we can give. She remembered that saying and met a girl named Zoe by complimenting her shirt. They became friends and had lots of fun together. She was thankful to Heavenly Father for the beautiful world and for her new friend.

When Friendships have Troubles

Friend January 2026 “Friend Trouble” Matt’s friend Joseph won’t talk to him, ignores him, and won’t let him play on his team. Matt couldn’t think of anything he had done to make Joseph mad at him. His parents said they would pray for him and Joseph. He wondered why he should pray for Joseph. Joseph was the one being mean! But he did it anyway. As he prayed, he started to feel peaceful inside. In his prayer he was able to express his feelings and asked for help loving Joseph even if things didn’t get better.

Friends Say Their Sorry

Friend July 2020 “How to Lose a Friend” When Charlotte’s friend got a solo in the choir concert and she didn’t, Charlotte was hurt and said something mean to her friend that she didn’t mean. She didn’t know how to fix things. She decided to give her presentation in class about how to lose a friend, hoping that her friend would see she was sorry and forgive her. 

Friend September 2020 “Amy and Her Trike” Amy accidentally hits Todd while riding trikes. She says sorry, gives him a hug, and asks if he wants to ride trikes with her.

Friends Forgive

Friend August 2021 “Not Invited” Becky isn’t invited to her friend’s birthday party. She feels really left out and sad. She prays to be able to forgive her friend and is able to play together the next day. When Becky has her birthday party she invites her.

How to Friendship:

  • Someone New

Friend September 1986 “Strengthen Thy Brethern” A girl scared to attend a new school suddenly feels better when another child friendships her.

Friend June 1986 Put the pictures in order, or have a child tell the story in their own words.

Friends with Someone with Disabilities

Friend November 2019 “Seeing a New Friend” Beth had never met someone blind before, so she was a little unsure what to do with Cara when she and her family came for dinner. Even though Cara couldn’t see the toys, she could feel them and know what they were. Pretty soon Cara and Beth were giggling together, and Beth realized she had a new friend.

Friend April 2017 “Ben’s Buddies” Ben has many disabilities but his Primary class make sure he is included.

Friend March 2019 “Matt and Mandy” Matt’s friend wants to know why Matt is friends with him because he can’t run, ride bikes, or even talk very well. Matt said he likes his friend’s jokes, and they like a lot of the same stuff. Matt’s friend says he liked Matt because he stood up for him.

Find Things in Common

Friend Sept 1987 A strange new animal is left out and lonely until the other animals look for things they have in common with it.

 Friend May 2024 “Chess Friendship” Matvii and his family were moving to Germany because it wasn’t safe where they were from. A bishop’s family let them stay with them. Matvii was upset when he realized the Bishop’s children didn’t understand their language. How could he make friends if he couldn’t talk to them. Eventually the children found games and activities that they all knew and could play together, like football and chess.

How to Be a Good Friend

Friend January 2025 “Margo and Paolo” Margo and Paolo want to be a good friend like their friend Laura who they miss.

Friends are Kind and Help Each Other

Friend October 2018 “Kaity and Quincy” Kaity, who has Down syndrome, loves her friend Quincy. Quincy always helps her at church. When Quincy’s brother dies, Katie wants to help her friend. She is able to comfort her sad, crying friend with just the right words and hugs.

Friend August 2018 “A Friend like Mark” Josh is made fun of by some boys at church for his costume and his lack of ability to play basketball. A new boy moves in, and instead of making fun of Josh, he encourages him and helps him with basketball

Friend November 2023 “Margo and Paolo” When Margo meets a new girl that feels like she talks too much and isn’t good at making friends, Margo is positive and lets her know she’s made a friend and then she finds things in common.

Finding Good Friends

Friend February 2024 “True Friends?” Henry’s friends did things that made him uncomfortable like watching bad videos, telling mean jokes at school, or stealing apples. He was afraid to say anything because he didn’t want to be alone and friendless. His mom told him that true friends help you do what’s right. The next time they watched a bad video he said he didn’t want to watch it. His friends made fun of him and said mean things about him. “Is this what true friends would do?,” Henry thought. He left and felt peaceful. He realized he wasn’t alone. The Holy Ghost was with him.

Friend February 2024 “5 Ways to Spot a True Friend” Here are five ways to spot a true friend. These things can help you be a true friend too!

Friend March 2018 “Friends by Mail” Harrison’s  friends influenced him to make bad choices. He was feeling unhappy and frustrated. He knew he needed to  change  friends.

Friend April 2016 “Better Friends” A girl’s friends say mean things about her so she finds other friends.

Friends Help Each Other Choose the Right

For the Strength of Youth April 2024 “Thanks for Looking Out” Sam gets upset and uses bad language when he loses a game. His friend helps remind him that isn’t who he is.

Friend January 2018 “Forts and Friends” Even though Callie and Marco go to different religions, they both have the same standards.  While watching a movie at school that made Callie feel uncomfortable, Marco suggested they both go read instead.

Friend September 2016 “Pretty Much Brothers” Xander likes having Sevak from Armenia staying with his family. It’s like having an older brother, but Sevak doesn’t know the things Xander knows about Jesus and Heavenly Father, so Xander helps him.

Friend May 2016 Matt’s friend accidently damages his father’s car. Matt encourages his friend to choose the right and be honest.

Friend May 2016
Friend May 2016

Friend February 2024 “Staying Strong Together” When Elder Yamashita was younger only one other person in his school was a member of the church. Some of his friends made bad choices and he struggled to choose the right. Kids from church called every week to see how he was doing. Having friends at church helped him come back to church.

Friends Play Together in Kind Ways

Friend April 2019 “A New Block Tower” Mason accidentally knocks down Bo’s block tower. Mason says sorry and offers to help build another one. Bo forgives him, and they both are happy. (Also include an activity about friends building a tower together.)

Friends Can Include Others

Friend January 2016 A girl plays with a different girl other than her normal friends. Eventually her other friends include the new girl too.

Friend May 2022 “Matt and Mandy”

Friends Stick up for Each Other

Friend June 2019 “Friendship Feud” When a group of girls won’t let Sadra play with them anymore, one of the friends of the girls decides to be a friend to Sadra even though the other girls threatened not to be her friend anymore if she was friends with Sadra.

Friend October 1983 ” The Good Sport” – Boy learns that friends support and help each other even at the risk of losing a game due to the friend not being good at it.

Friend November 1985 “The Guy in the Glass”- Boy stands up for his friend even though he might get teased and tormented too

Friends Help Each Other

Friend June 2018 “Tortillas and Amigas” Adriana went to visit her elderly friend next door and found her looking sad. Adriana wanted to help her feel better so she suggested they cook or eat tortillas because that always makes her friend feel happy. Before eating, Adriana said a prayer on the food and asked a blessing for her friend too and that made her friend feel happy. (Link includes tortilla recipe. Also a puzzle page is included for figuring out what the Spanish words in the story mean.)

Friend May 2018 “Best Buddies” Anna pushes Will’s wheelchair when they play tag and listens when Will slowly says something because she wants to hear what he has to say. Will laughs at Anna’s jokes. Anna helps Will find blocks to stack and Will doesn’t mind when Anna accidentally knocks over a tower. They are best friends.

Friend December 2017 “The Red Ticket” Matteo’s Friend was always getting into trouble at school. He had to pay with tickets that could be used for prizes. He ran out of tickets one day and Matteo offered to pay with his own ticket so his friend wouldn’t have to miss recess.

Friend September 2017 “Good Friends” Jessie goes over to Kaitlyn’s, who has broken her leg. She helps Kaitlyn and plays with her.

Friend September 2016 “A Butterfly for Courtney” Elena’s friend, Courtney, is sad a lot. Elena gives a gift to her friend to help her feel better.  (See also “Don’t Give Up” for ideas on how to help a friend who is often sad. Friend September 2016)

Friend August 2024 “The Tiny Cantaloupe” Weston’s friend’s dad died. He wanted to help Nate and his family feel better, so he found a cantaloupe in the garden that he had planted and taken care of and he left it on their doorstep with a note. The family loved it. Weston felt warm inside as Nate hugged him. He couldn’t take away his friend’s sadness, but even a tiny cantaloupe could help bring a smile.

Friends Encourage Each Other

Friend February 2020 “Keep Going, Josie” Josie had been sick and was tired, but she needed to run in the big race with her teammates. She was worried about letting them down. In her first race, others kept passing her and she felt like giving up.  But as her teammates passed her they encouraged her to keep going. Their words gave her strength and she was able to finish the race. (We can encourage each other spiritually too like Jesus does.)

Friends Protect and Look Out For Each Other

Friend August 2021 “The Drug Decision” Alvin sees two classmates with a bag of drugs that they were planning on trying after school. Even though he doesn’t want them mad at him, Alvin tells his teacher because he knows drugs can hurt people.

Friend January 2019 “Two Friends, One Coat” Macy forgot to bring her coat to school and she gets cold at recess. Her friend, Monroe, shares her coat with Macy, and they take turns using it.

Friend December 2017 “Warm Hands, Warm Heart” Monroe notices some of her friends don’t have gloves to keep their hands warm at recess, so she brings some gloves to share.

Friend March 2015– Telling friend’s secret about something dangerous. Lesson discussion

Friend March 2015

Friends Support Each Other

Friend April 2024 “Margo and Paolo” Paolo’s friend is upset because she heard some friends say she is annoying and doesn’t want to be friends with her anymore. Paolo tells her that they are missing out because he always has fun with her, she even make chores fun. She has the best jokes, the best ideas, and she is nice to everyone.

Friend August 2020 “Choosing the Channel” Camille’s best friend told her about a funny TV show, but it had some bad words in it so she turned it off. Camille was afraid to tell her friend that she didn’t watch it. They were best friends that did everything together and liked the same things. She was afraid they wouldn’t be friends anymore. But her friend was supportive of her choice and said they could find a show they both liked.