One way to find rich spiritual nourishment in the Old Testament is to look for the Bread of Life, Jesus Christ (see John 6:48). For example, how do you see the Savior in the following?

• Manna (Exodus 16:4, 11–15; John 6:35)

• The sacrificial lamb (Exodus 12:3–5; John 1:29)

• The brass serpent (Numbers 21:4–10; John 3:14)

• Jonah (Jonah 1:4–17; Matthew 12:38–41)

What do these examples teach about Him? What other references to Jesus Christ in the Old Testament are you already familiar with?

In his message “Jesus Christ Is the Treasure,” Elder Dale G. Renlund encouraged us to “remember and always focus on Jesus Christ” (Liahona, Nov. 2023, 98). Consider reading his message, looking for things you can do to find Jesus Christ not only in the Old Testament but also in your life.

See also “Types or Symbols of Christ” in Guide to the Scriptures, “Jesus Christ,” Gospel Library; “Seek the Lord Early,” Children’s Songbook, 108.

President Dallin H. Oaks taught: “The Father introduced His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, as our Savior and Redeemer and gave us the command to ‘hear Him.’ From this direction we conclude that the scriptural records of words spoken by ‘God’ or the ‘Lord’ are almost always the words of Jehovah, our risen Lord, Jesus Christ” (“The Teachings of Jesus Christ,” Liahona, May 2023, 102).

When the leaders of the Jews challenged Jesus about His identity, He declared, “Before Abraham was, I am.” These words shocked the people who heard Jesus, and they were ready to stone Him (see John 8:58–59). Consider reading Exodus 3:13–15; 6:3–5 to see why some Jews were so upset at what Jesus said.

Why is it significant to you to know that Jesus Christ is Jehovah?

In a vision, the Lord showed Nephi the coming forth of the Bible, explaining that “many plain and precious things” would be taken from it. Consider reading 1 Nephi 13:21–29, 38–42, looking for how the Lord planned to “make known the plain and precious things.” According to 2 Nephi 3:12, how do the Bible and Book of Mormon work together?

As you study the Old Testament this year, you will also study some of the “other books” Nephi foresaw. These include:

• The book of Moses, part of Joseph Smith’s translation of the Bible. It restores truths and accounts not found in the current text of Genesis 1–6.

• The book of Abraham, which was revealed to Joseph Smith as he examined ancient Egyptian papyri (see Topics and Questions, “Book of Abraham,” Gospel Library).

• Various passages from the Joseph Smith Translation, some of which appear in the footnotes, the appendix of the Bible, and the Guide to the Scriptures.

Here are some examples of Old Testament accounts restored through Joseph Smith: Enoch’s city of Zion (Moses 7:18–19), Abraham’s vision of the council in heaven (Abraham 3:22–28), and the ministry of Melchizedek (Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 14:25–40). Why are these accounts “plain and precious” to you?

The Old Testament is the story of God seeking to make us His “peculiar treasure” by covenant (Exodus 19:5). For that reason, a good way to prepare to read the Old Testament is to learn about covenants—specifically the everlasting covenant God offered to ancient prophets like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and their posterity. And a great way to learn about covenants is to study President Russell M. Nelson’s message “The Everlasting Covenant” (Liahona, October 2022, 4–11).

As you read, ask yourself: Why are covenants important to me? What “special kind of love and mercy” do I receive from God as I keep my covenants with Him? As you read the Old Testament this year, be watching for things God wants to teach you about your covenant relationship with Him.

See also Jeremiah 31:31–34.

• The words and culture of the Old Testament may be difficult for children to understand, but you can help them see Jesus Christ in symbols and stories. Perhaps you and your children could look at the image below, The Prophet Isaiah Foretells Christ’s Birth. Let your children point out details they see. Draw their attention, in particular, to the baby Jesus. Then you could read with them what Isaiah wrote about the Savior’s birth in Isaiah 7:14; 9:6. Share with your children how you feel about looking for the Savior in the Old Testament this year.

  

• You and your children could also read Psalm 23 or Isaiah 53:3–9 and find words that remind you of Jesus Christ. What do these words teach us about His life and Atonement?

• Covenants are a major theme in the Old Testament. To introduce this theme to your children, you could talk with them about promises they make and keep with family or friends and why keeping these promises is important. You could then look at a picture of a baptism and talk about the promise, or covenant, we make with God when we are baptized (see Mosiah 18:10, 13). You could also show a picture of the temple and share your feelings about the covenants we make there.

• This week’s activity page could help your children be excited to make and keep covenants with Heavenly Father. You could also sing a song about making covenants, like “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 103).

• Do your children know anyone who goes by different names in different settings? Perhaps a parent or teacher is addressed differently at work, at home, and at church. Talk about those names; then read Exodus 6:3 together and invite your children to find the names Jesus Christ was known by before He was born (see also the Joseph Smith Translation in footnote c).

“If the Lord were speaking to you directly,” President Russell M. Nelson taught, “the first thing He would make sure you understand is your true identity” (“Choices for Eternity” [worldwide devotional for young adults, May 2022], Gospel Library). It follows that Satan would try to confuse you on that same point. Look for this pattern in God’s message to Moses in Moses 1:4, 6 and in Satan’s messages in Moses 1:12. What do you learn from these verses about the differences between God and Satan?

President Nelson also taught, “The way you think about who you really are affects almost every decision you will ever make” (“Choices for Eternity”). Consider making a list of choices you make because your identity as a child of God comes before other labels.

What additional verses or phrases in Moses 1 help you understand your divine worth? You might also read more of President Nelson’s message in the section of “Choices for Eternity” titled “First: Know the truth about who you are.” What do you feel inspired to do to make your identity as a child of God your most important identifier?

See also “I Am a Child of God,” Hymns (1985), no. 301; “Our True Identity” (video), Gospel Library; Topics and Questions, “Children of God,” Gospel Library.

As Moses 1 clearly shows, powerful spiritual experiences do not mean we’ll never be tempted again. In fact, one of Satan’s tactics is to tempt us to doubt these experiences. As you read Moses’s response to Satan in verses 12–26, what do you learn that can help you stay true to the testimony you have received? What was it that finally helped Moses overcome Satan?

Another lesson from Moses’s experience is that Satan tempts us with counterfeits of God’s truth and power. Think of some fake versions of things, such as an artificial plant or a baby doll. How can you tell they’re fake? Then consider the counterfeits Satan uses today to tempt you. What do you learn from Moses 1:13–18 about how to recognize and reject his counterfeits? How can the Lord help you? (see Moses 1:24–26).

See also Matthew 4:1–11; Gary E. Stevenson, “Deceive Me Not,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2019, 93–96; “I Am a Son of God” (video), Gospel Library.

After seeing a vision of God’s creations, Moses said to the Lord: “Tell me … why these things are so” (Moses 1:30). What impresses you about the Lord’s response in Moses 1:31–39? What’s the difference between immortality and eternal life? (see Topics and Questions, “Eternal Life,” Gospel Library). How does Jesus Christ help bring to pass both? Abraham also had a vision, recorded in Abraham 3. What do you find in verses 24–26 that could help answer Moses’s request?

We know very little about our premortal life. But much of what we do know comes from Abraham’s vision in Abraham 3:22–28. As you read these verses, make a list of truths you find—including truths about yourself and about Jesus Christ. Why are these truths valuable to you? What difference do they make in your life?

See also Topics and Questions, “Premortal Life,” Gospel Library.

• What is the book of Moses?

• What is the book of Abraham?

• What does it mean to “chosen,” or foreordained?

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• After you read together God’s message to Moses in Moses 1:4, consider letting your children look at their reflection in a mirror and giving themselves a similar message: “I am a child of God.” Then they could give the same message to each other: “You are a child of God.” You might even find pictures of a variety of people and invite your children to point to each one and say, “This is a child of God.” Share with each other why you are glad to know you are children of God. How does this knowledge change the way you treat yourselves and others?

• You and your children could compare God’s message to Moses in Moses 1:4 with Satan’s message in verse 12. How can you help your children distinguish between God’s messages to them and Satan’s?

• As you read Moses 1:6 with your children, you might talk to them about the “work” God had for Moses. Consider using the Gospel Art Book, nos. 13–16, or Old Testament Stories, pages 64–84, to help your children see what Moses accomplished with Heavenly Father’s help. What is the work God has for us to do? (see, for example, Doctrine and Covenants 11:20).

• As you study Moses 1:12–26 with your children, help them discover what Moses did to resist Satan (see verses 13, 15, 18, 20–22, 26). It might be fun for them to act out things they can do to resist temptation (such as praying, walking away, or asking for help).

• Knowing about our premortal life can inspire your children to make choices based on eternal truths. To help them learn about it, you could give them some key words and phrases to find in Abraham 3:22–28, like “before the world was,” “spirits,” “make an earth,” and “prove.” What do these verses teach us about why Heavenly Father sent us to earth?

• A song like “I Will Follow God’s Plan” (Children’s Songbook, 164–65) could reinforce what Abraham 3 teaches. Maybe you could invite your children to draw pictures that go with the words.

• Help your children think of situations in which they have to choose whether or not to do what God has asked them to (see Abraham 3:25; see also For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices). Let them practice possible responses to these situations. How can the Savior help us when we make a wrong choice?

Although we don’t know everything about how the world was created, it’s interesting to note what God has chosen to reveal about the Creation. What does God teach you about it in Genesis 1:1–25; Moses 2:1–25; and Abraham 4:1–25? Why does He want you to know these things? As you ponder these accounts, you might also consider what they teach you about Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, the world, and yourself.

To enrich your study, consider reading these verses while out among God’s creations or while listening to a song like “All Creatures of Our God and King” (Hymns, no. 62). You could find pictures of His creations that help you feel reverence for the Creator. Consider sharing these pictures, along with your testimony, with others.

See also Doctrine and Covenants 101:32–34.

As you read Genesis 1:26–27; Moses 2:26–27; and Abraham 4:26–27, ponder what it means to be created in God’s “image” or “likeness,” male and female. Why is it important to you to know the truths in these verses? For example, how do these truths affect the way you see yourself, others, and God? How can they help you when you have negative feelings about yourself?

To help you think about these questions, try completing a sentence like this one: “Because I know I am created in God’s image, I choose to …” Reviewing “Your body is sacred” in For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices (pages 22–29) can help. Consider choosing something you will do to show God that you know your body is sacred.

In the video “God’s Greatest Creation” (Gospel Library), President Russell M. Nelson bears testimony of the miraculous human body. As you watch this video, ask yourself, “How does Heavenly Father want me to feel about my body?” How is this different from messages you might hear from others?

Some people might say that being created in God’s image means that all of our thoughts, feelings, and desires are approved by Him and that we don’t need to (or cannot) improve. What would you say to that? What insights do you gain from Mosiah 3:19 and Ether 12:27?

See also Russell M. Nelson, “Your Body: A Magnificent Gift to Cherish,” Liahona, Aug. 2019, 50–55.

“Adam and Eve were joined together in marriage for time and for all eternity by the power of [the] everlasting priesthood” (Russell M. Nelson, “Lessons from Eve,” Ensign, Nov. 1987, 87). Ponder this as you read Genesis 1:27–28; 2:18–25; Moses 3:18, 21–25; and Abraham 5:14–19. How can you treat marriage with the sacredness God has given it?

See also 1 Corinthians 11:11; “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Gospel Library.

What do Genesis 1:28; Moses 2:28; and Abraham 4:28 suggest about our responsibility toward God’s creations? What do Doctrine and Covenants 59:16–21 and 104:13–18 add to your understanding?

See also Gérald Caussé, “Our Earthly Stewardship,” Liahona, Nov. 2022, 57–59; Topics and Questions, “Environmental Stewardship and Conservation,” Gospel Library.

God made the Sabbath day holy, and He asks us to keep it holy. As you read Genesis 2:2–3; Moses 3:2–3; and Abraham 5:2–3, think about what makes the Sabbath “blessed” to you.

See also Doctrine and Covenants 59:9–13; “The Sabbath Is a Delight” (video), Gospel Library.

• How long did the Creation take?

• What is the Church’s position on evolution?

• Was Eve really created from Adam’s rib?

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• How will you make learning about the Creation fun for your children? You could take them on a search outside for the kinds of things that were made during each period of Creation. Your children might also look at pictures of things Jesus created (see “The Creation of the Earth” in Old Testament Stories, 8–12). Then you and your children could talk about how you feel about Jesus Christ after reading about the Creation.

• Consider singing a song together about our beautiful world, such as “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook, 228–29). Maybe your children could add to the song other things God has created that help them feel His love.

• Your children can develop a sense of reverence and respect for their own and others’ bodies as they learn that we were all created in God’s image. To help them understand what this means, you could let your children look at their image in a mirror or picture while you read Moses 2:26–27 to them. You could also show them how baby animals are often in the “likeness” of their parents (see the picture in this outline, for example). This could lead to a conversation about why it’s important to you to know that you are created in your Heavenly Father’s image.

  

• You and your children might enjoy drawing a human body and cutting the drawings into puzzles. As your children put their puzzles together, they could talk about ways they can show Heavenly Father that they are thankful for their bodies.

• As you read Moses 3:2–3, ask your children to listen for what God did on the seventh day. Help your children find or draw pictures of things they can do on Sunday to make it a holy day and different from other days. Share with each other why it is important to you to keep the Sabbath day holy.

• Help your children role-play explaining to a friend why they choose to do things on Sunday that honor Heavenly Father and Jesus. Suggest that they use Genesis 2:2–3 in their explanations. How does keeping the Sabbath day holy show our love for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?

It’s true that Adam and Eve’s choice led to many of the difficulties we experience in mortality. But that doesn’t mean we regret their choice. As you read Genesis 3 and Moses 4, you might ask yourself, why was the Fall important to God’s plan?

According to Moses 5:9–12, how did Adam and Eve feel about the Fall? How can you apply their words to your experiences in this fallen world? What else do you learn from 2 Nephi 2:19–25?

See also Mosiah 3:19; Alma 12:21–37; and Doctrine and Covenants 29:39–43.

Adam and Eve’s story is one of hope and redemption through Jesus Christ. To see why, you might start by searching for the results of the Fall in Genesis 3:1–7; Moses 4:22–31 and marking or listing what you find. How do these results affect you? Then you could search Moses 5:4–15, looking for God’s plan to redeem us from these effects. Why were Adam and Eve “glad” after the angel visited them? What do you learn from them about Heavenly Father’s plan?

See also “Because of Him” (video), Gospel Library.

This passage of scripture has sometimes been misunderstood to mean that a husband is justified in treating his wife unkindly. In our day, the Lord’s prophets have taught that a husband and wife should see each other as equal partners in fulfilling their divine responsibilities in the family (see “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” [Gospel Library]). Elder Dale G. Renlund and Sister Ruth Lybbert Renlund explained that a righteous husband “will seek to minister; he will acknowledge error and seek forgiveness; he will be quick to offer praise; he will be considerate of family members’ preferences; he will feel the great weight of responsibility to provide ‘the necessities of life and protection’ for his family; he will treat his wife with the utmost respect and deference. … He will bless his family” (The Melchizedek Priesthood: Understanding the Doctrine, Living the Principles [2018], 23).

To learn more about how the Lord views the relationship between husbands and wives, ponder the counsel of Elder Ulisses Soares in the following video. How would you explain, in your own words, what it means for husband wife to be “equal partners”?

Elder Dale G. Renlund taught, “Our Heavenly Father’s goal in parenting is not to have His children do what is right; it is to have His children choose to do what is right and ultimately become like Him” (“Choose You This Day,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 104). Why is it so important in Heavenly Father’s plan that we choose to do what is right?

As you read Moses 4:1–4, look for what Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ did to protect your right to choose—your agency. How can you access their protecting power? For ideas, consider studying the section “Make inspired choices” in For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices (4–5).

Consider also reading what Lehi taught about agency in 2 Nephi 2:11–20, 25–30. Why is opposition necessary for agency? How can you show your appreciation to Jesus Christ for making you “free to choose”? (2 Nephi 2:27).

See also Dallin H. Oaks, “Opposition in All Things,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 114–17; Topics and Questions, “Agency,” Gospel Library; “Choose the Right,” Hymns, no. 239.

As you read Moses 4:4–12; 5:13–33, consider listing ways that Satan tried to tempt Adam and Eve and their children. How does he attempt these same things today? How does Heavenly Father help you resist Satan’s deceptions?

After partaking of the forbidden fruit, Adam and Eve tried to cover their own nakedness. Later, the Lord offered to clothe them. As you read Moses 4:13–16, 27, consider the following:

• Ponder what nakedness and clothing can represent in the scriptures (see, for example, Revelation 7:9, 13–15; 2 Nephi 9:14; Doctrine and Covenants 109:22–26, 76). What do you learn from Adam and Eve’s experience with nakedness and clothing?

• If you have been endowed in the temple, consider what Adam and Eve might say to you about the significance of your temple garment and what it represents.

See also “Sacred Temple Clothing” (video), Gospel Library.

As you study Moses 5:4–9, 16–26, consider the attitudes of Adam and Eve and their sons Cain and Abel toward sacrifice. Why did the Lord accept Abel’s sacrifice but not Cain’s?

What does the Lord ask you to sacrifice? Is there anything in these verses that shapes the way you think about those sacrifices?

• Did God give Adam and Eve conflicting commandments in the Garden of Eden?

• Was it a sin for Adam and Eve to partake of the forbidden fruit?

• What do we know about the curse and mark placed upon Cain?

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• To help your children better understand the Fall of Adam and Eve, you could copy the pictures from “Adam and Eve” (in Old Testament Stories, 13–16) and cut them out. Then you could work together to put the pictures in order as you discuss the experiences of Adam and Eve. As you do, talk about why it was important, in Heavenly Father’s plan, for Adam and Eve to leave the Garden of Eden.

• Your children can feel gratitude for the Atonement of Jesus Christ as they understand how He overcomes the effects of the Fall. As you read together Moses 4:25; 6:48; Romans 5:12; 2 Nephi 2:22–23, help your children find ways to complete this sentence: “Because of the Fall, I …” Then, as you read together Moses 5:8–11, 14–15; 6:59; Alma 11:42, they could complete this sentence: “Because of Jesus Christ, I …” Share with each other your gratitude for Jesus Christ.

• Consider a simple object lesson to introduce the principle of agency: invite your children to color this week’s activity page, but give them only one color to use. Why would it be better to have choices? You could then read together Moses 4:1–4 and talk about why God wants us to be able to choose between right and wrong. How do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ help us make good choices?

• Help your children think of and draw pictures of good choices they can make to follow Jesus Christ. Or you could sing together a song about making good choices, such as “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). You might tell each other about a time when you made a good choice and talk about how you felt afterward.

• When Adam and Eve had to leave the Garden of Eden, they couldn’t be with Heavenly Father anymore. Read Moses 5:4, 8 with your children, and help them find what Adam and Eve did to feel near to Him and hear Him. What are some things we can say to Heavenly Father in our prayers?

As you study Moses 6:26–36, what do you learn about the effects of sin? How have you seen these effects? What attributes did Enoch have that helped him overcome these effects? How did God bless him as a result?

If you ever feel overwhelmed with what the Lord has called you to do, you aren’t alone. Even Enoch felt that way when the Lord called him to be a prophet. As you read Moses 6:26–36, look for why Enoch felt overwhelmed and what the Lord said to give him courage.

In verses 37–47, you could look for ways the Lord supported Enoch and empowered him to do His work (see also Moses 7:13). You might compare Enoch’s experience with that of other prophets who felt inadequate, such as Moses (see Exodus 4:10–16), Jeremiah (see Jeremiah 1:4–10), Nephi (see 2 Nephi 33:1–4), and Moroni (see Ether 12:23–29). What do you feel God wants you to learn from these scriptures about the work He has given you to do?

Many modern-day apostles and prophets have expressed feelings similar to Enoch’s when they described how it felt to receive their calls. For example, see the testimony of Elder Ulisses Soares in “Prophets Speak by the Power of the Holy Spirit” (Liahona, May 2018, 98–99).

What can you learn from these prophets and apostles about your feelings of inadequacy? When have you felt the Savior help you when He asked you to do hard things? Consider writing down a few experiences in your future when you will need to rely on the Savior’s help. How can you approach these events with faith in Jesus Christ?

This year’s youth theme, “Walk with Me,” is based on Moses 6:34. Click here for music and other resources related to this theme. What does it mean to walk with the Savior? What will you do to accept His invitation to walk with Him?

See also David A. Bednar, “Abide in Me, and I in You; Therefore Walk with Me,” Liahona, May 2023, 123–25; “I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go,” Hymns, no. 270.

Because we have the book of Moses, we know that God has been teaching His children how to find redemption ever since Adam and Eve. As you study Moses 6:48–68, search for what we must know and do to be redeemed. Notice Adam’s question in verse 53. Have you ever wondered that? What do you learn from the Lord’s answer in verses 53–65? You might think of these verses as the Lord’s message at Adam’s baptismal service. What do you learn about baptism from His message? Why do you think He compared baptism to being “born again”? (verse 59). What can you do to continue to be “born again” throughout your life?

After teaching Adam truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ, in Moses 6:51–63, the Lord told Adam to teach them to future generations. Consider making a list of these truths. (It might help to divide the passage into smaller groups of verses, such as verses 51–52, 53–57, 58–60, 61–63). Why are these truths valuable to today’s rising generation? What else can you learn from the Lord’s instructions to parents in Mosiah 4:14–15 and Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28; 93:40–50?

Reading about the “book of remembrance” that Adam and Eve’s family kept may inspire you or your family to make your own book of remembrance. What do you feel the Lord would want you to include? Consider saving information from your book of remembrance on FamilySearch.org.

See also Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Jesus Christ Is the Strength of Parents,” Liahona, May 2023, 55–59; “Parenting: Touching the Hearts of Our Youth,” “But Why?” (videos), Gospel Library.

• What do the symbols of water, spirit, and blood teach us about being born again through Jesus Christ?

• How did Adam become a “son of God”?

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• When Enoch was called to preach the gospel, he worried that he would fail. But God helped him. Read together this story in Moses 6:26–34 (see also “Enoch the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories, 19–21). Why did Enoch feel that he couldn’t preach the gospel? (see Moses 6:31). How did God help Enoch? (see Moses 6:32–34; 7:13).

• Your children might enjoy sharing or acting out other examples of when God helped people do difficult things—for example, Noah, David, Ammon, or Samuel the Lamanite (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 7, 19, 78, 81). You could also share an experience of your own and let your children talk about how God helps them do hard things.

• God taught Adam what we need to do to return to Him—have faith in Jesus Christ, repent, be baptized, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Help your children find these principles in Moses 6:52, 57. Then you could help them write a short talk about one of the principles. Each talk could include a scripture from Moses 6, an experience, and a testimony. Let them share their talks with each other.

• You could also display pictures that represent the first principles of the gospel (see the fourth article of faith). Place them in a line leading to a picture of Jesus Christ. As you read Moses 6:52, your children could stand next to the correct picture when they hear the words the picture represents.

• Your children might enjoy singing songs that teach the principles in Moses 6:52, such as “Faith,” “When I Am Baptized,” and “The Holy Ghost” (Children’s Songbook, 96–97, 103, 105). Help them find these principles in Moses 6:52.

• To encourage your children to support their parents in their role as gospel teachers, consider asking a child to read Moses 6:58 and identify the commandment God gave to parents. Then you could show a picture of Adam and Eve teaching their children (like the one at the end of this outline) and let your children talk about what they see in the picture. Your children could draw pictures of their families reading the scriptures together, praying together, or playing together.

When the Prophet Joseph Smith first learned about Enoch and his City of Holiness, he was inspired. He “knew the day had come when the Lord would again establish Zion on the earth” (Saints, 1:108–9), and he started a lifelong quest to build Zion. Reading Moses 7 can inspire you to continue that effort today.

You might start by exploring the questions “What is Zion?” and “How is it different from the rest of the world?” Consider listing answers that come to you as you study Moses 7, in particular verses 16–21, 27, 53, 62–69.

Your answers to these questions might make it clear that we still have a lot of work to do to build Zion. So how do we do it? It might help to think about times when you felt you were “of one heart and one mind” with someone (Moses 7:18). Maybe it was in a ward, family, or group at work or school. What did people do to create righteous unity?

Here are some other resources that you could explore to find ideas and inspiration. Pick one or more to study, and then write down what you feel inspired to do to build Zion:

• Philippians 2:1–4; 4 Nephi 1:15–18; Doctrine and Covenants 97:21; 105:5.

• Ulisses Soares, “Brothers and Sisters in Christ,” Liahona, Nov. 2023, 70–73.

• D. Todd Christofferson, “One in Christ,” Liahona, May 2023, 77–80.

• “We Come Together and Unite as One” (video), Gospel Library.

What does it mean to you to have Jesus Christ as your King? Note the other titles of Jesus Christ in this verse. What do they teach you about Him? What do you think it means to come “in at the gate and [climb] up by [Him]”?

See also “Come, O Thou King of Kings,” Hymns, no. 59.

Some people see God as a distant being who isn’t emotionally affected by what happens to us. Enoch gained a different view of God in the vision recorded in Moses 7. What did he learn about God—and what do you learn—in verses 28–40? Why do you think Enoch was surprised to see God weep? Why is it important to you to know that He does?

As the vision continued, Enoch wept too. But God also shared with him reasons to rejoice. Look for them in Moses 7:41–69. What do you learn from Enoch’s vision that can help you “lift up your heart, and be glad,” despite the “bitterness” in your life (verse 44)?

See also Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Grandeur of God,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2003, 70–73.

Enoch’s vision, especially what’s recorded in Moses 7:59–67, is one of history’s first prophecies of the Savior’s Second Coming. What impresses you about the way these verses describe the last days? For example, consider how you feel the prophecies from verse 62 are being fulfilled. What do these phrases teach you about God’s work in the latter days?

See also Henry B. Eyring, “Sisters in Zion,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 67–69.

• What does it mean that “seed of Cain were black”?

• What does it mean that the “Lamb is slain from the foundation of the world”?

• How does the Joseph Smith Translation enhance our understanding of God’s covenant with Enoch and Noah?

Click to see more.

• To help your children learn about Enoch and Zion, you could use “Enoch the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories (19–21) or the second verse of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Then you could ask your children to help you retell the story in their own words. The pictures of Enoch in this outline might help.

• Here’s one way to help your children understand what it means to be of “one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18): Make a paper heart and cut it into pieces, enough for each child to have one. Let them write their name on their piece and work together to put the heart together. As they do, you might talk about things you love about each child.

• Help your children count how many times the word “Zion” appears in Moses 7:18–21, 62–63, 68–69. Each time they find the word, help them discover what the verse says about Zion (see also Guide to the Scriptures, “Zion,” Gospel Library). How can we be more like the people described in these verses?

• To introduce Moses 7:32–33 to your children, you might talk to them about a choice they had to make recently. Then you could read the verses together to find out what Heavenly Father wants us to choose. What choices can we make to show that we choose Him? Perhaps your children could take turns acting out one of these choices while the others guess what the action represents.

• In Moses 7:59, Enoch asks the Lord a question. Invite your children to find it, and then ask them to find the answer in verse 60. You might also talk with them about a time when they were expecting someone to return home. Ask them how they felt and what they did to get ready. How can we get ready for Jesus to return?

• Consider showing pictures of times when the Savior appeared to people (such as Gospel Art Book, nos. 60, 82, 83, and 84). What are the people doing in the pictures? How might the people have felt when they met Jesus? You could also sing a song about the Savior’s Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83), and ask the children what they think it will be like when Jesus comes again. Let the children share how they feel about seeing Jesus when He comes again.

Do you see anything in the description of Noah’s day that seems similar to conditions in our day? In particular, look in Moses 8:15–24, 28. What themes do you see repeated?

One important similarity you’ll see is that God called Noah to be a prophet, and He has called a prophet today too. Consider making a list of truths you learn about prophets from Moses 8:13–30. How is our living prophet like Noah? Of course, the Lord’s prophet today isn’t warning of a Flood or inviting us to help build an ark. But what is he warning us about? And what is he inviting us to do? To help answer these questions, you could review a chapter from Teachings of Presidents of the Church in Gospel Library, especially the “Invitations and Promised Blessings” section. Perhaps you could pick one warning and one invitation that seem especially important to you.

Elder Allen D. Haynie taught, “A perfect and loving Father in Heaven has chosen the pattern of revealing truth to His children through a prophet” (“A Living Prophet for the Latter Days,” Liahona, May 2023, 25). Consider studying Elder Haynie’s message, looking for reasons having a prophet is a sign of Heavenly Father’s love. How has following the Lord’s prophet helped you feel safe living in the latter days?

See also Topics and Questions, “Prophets,” Gospel Library; “Why Do We Have Prophets?” (video), Gospel Library.

Some people wonder about the justice of God in sending the Flood to “destroy man” (Genesis 6:7). Elder Neal A. Maxwell explained that at the time of the Flood, “corruption had reached an agency-destroying point that spirits could not, in justice, be sent here” (We Will Prove Them Herewith [1982], 58). You might also consider how the Flood was an act of mercy. What do you find in Genesis 6:5–13 that shows the Lord’s tender mercy and love for the people?

According to Genesis 9:8–17, what can a rainbow bring to your mind? What does Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 9:21–25 (in the Bible appendix) add to your understanding? You might also consider making a list of other things (like symbols, objects, or anything else) that God has given you to remind you of your covenants. What do these things teach you? How do they help you remember?

See also Gerrit W. Gong, “Always Remember Him,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 108–11; “Reverently and Meekly Now,” Hymns, no. 185.

The account of the people of Babel building a tower provides an interesting contrast to the account of Enoch and his people building Zion, which you studied last week. Both groups of people were trying to reach heaven but in different ways. How did the people of Zion obtain heaven? (see Moses 7:18–19, 53, 62–63, 69). What do you learn from Genesis 11:1–9 and Helaman 6:26–28 about the people of Babel? What does this teach us about our own efforts to return to God’s presence? What has God provided to help us “reach unto heaven”? (Genesis 11:4; see also John 3:16).

• Why did Noah curse Canaan?

• What was wrong about building the Tower of Babel?

• What is significant about the genealogy of Shem?

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• Most children love the story of Noah and the ark. Consider giving your children opportunities to share what they know about it. To help them, you could use the pictures in this outline, “Noah and His Family” in Old Testament Stories (22–25), and the third verse of “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Your children might enjoy acting out parts of the story—for example, by pretending to use a tool to build the ark or walking like animals entering the ark.

• 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 8:16–24 to find things Noah taught that the Lord’s prophets still teach today. How are we blessed when we obey these teachings?

• Your children might enjoy drawing or coloring a rainbow while you talk about what it represents (see Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 9:21–25 [in the Bible appendix]). What did God want Noah and his family to think of whenever they saw a rainbow?

• You could also show your children something you have that reminds you of something important in your life, such as a wedding ring, a picture, or a journal. Let your children share their own examples. This could lead to a conversation about things that help us remember our covenants, such as the sacrament, which helps us remember our baptismal covenant to follow Jesus Christ (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:75–79).

• It could be fun to build a tower out of blocks or other objects with your children. As you do so, explain that the people of Babel thought they could get to heaven by building a tall tower. You could then look together at a picture of the Savior and ask your children how He helps us get to heaven. Then you could talk with each other about things you can do to follow the Savior.

• In addition to reading the story of the tower of Babel in Genesis 11:1–9, you and your children could read Helaman 6:28. According to this verse, why did the people of Babel build the tower? Why was building this tower the wrong way to reach heaven? Then you could search 2 Nephi 31:20–21 and Helaman 3:28 to find the right way to reach heaven. What advice would we give to the people of Babel?

“We are all influenced by our families [and] our culture,” Elder Neil L. Andersen taught, “and yet I believe there is a place inside of us that we uniquely and individually control and create. … Eventually, our inner desires are given life and they are seen in our choices and in our actions” (“Educate Your Desires, Elder Andersen Counsels,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Consider how Abraham 1:1–19 demonstrates what Elder Andersen taught. Questions like these might help:

• What did Abraham desire? How were his desires evident in his actions? How did God support his desires?

• What are your desires? How are they evident in your actions? How does God support you?

• What message do these verses have for people whose family members do not desire righteousness?

One of Abraham and Sarah’s greatest desires—to have a child—went unfulfilled for many years (see Genesis 15:1–6). What do you learn from Hebrews 11:8–13 about how Abraham and Sarah faced this trial? How does the Savior help you “embrace” His promises, even if they are “afar off”?

See also “Deliverance of Abraham” (video), Gospel Library.

Why is it important for you to know about the covenant God made with Abraham? Because God wants to make a similar covenant with you. He promised that this covenant would continue in Abraham’s posterity, or “seed,” and that “as many as receive this Gospel shall be … accounted thy seed” (see Abraham 2:10–11). In other words, the covenant continues in you—when you are baptized and more completely when you make covenants in the temple (see Galatians 3:26–29; Doctrine and Covenants 132:30–32).

For that reason, you might want to study Abraham 2:6–11 and make a list of what, exactly, God promised Abraham and Sarah (see also Genesis 12:1–3; 13:15–16; 15:1–6; 17:1–8, 15–22). How might these blessings apply to you?

Some of these promises have eternal parallels. How are promises like a land of inheritance or a large posterity fulfilled eternally? (see Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4; 132:20–24, 28–32).

Besides promising blessings, God told Abraham to “be a blessing” (Genesis 12:2; emphasis added). What do you think that means? How will you be a blessing? (see Abraham 2:11).

To teach about covenants, Elder Dale G. Renlund spoke of tidal waves in the Amazon River, and President Emily Belle Freeman talked about walking a rocky path with a broken ankle (see “Accessing God’s Power through Covenants,” Liahona, May 2023, 35–37; “Walking in Covenant Relationship with Christ,” Liahona, Nov. 2023, 76–79). Search one or both of these messages for sentences that help answer the question “Why does God want me to make covenants with Him?”

See also Topics and Questions, “Abrahamic Covenant,” Gospel Library; “Thoughts to Keep in Mind: The Covenant,” in this resource.

Imagine you were introducing Melchizedek to someone who didn’t know him. What would you say? Look for ideas in Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 14:26–27, 33–38 (in the Bible appendix); Alma 13:13–19; Doctrine and Covenants 107:1–4. What Christlike qualities do you find in these descriptions of Melchizedek? How does your study of Melchizedek’s life affect the way you view the Melchizedek Priesthood?

What do you learn about Abraham’s attitude toward wealth from Genesis 14:18–24 and Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 14:36–40 (in the Bible appendix)? For example, note his response to the king of Sodom in Genesis 14:23. How has obeying the law of tithing affected your view of money?

As you read Genesis 16, you might think about a time when you felt you were being treated unfairly, as Hagar did. Note that “Ishmael” means “God hears.” How has God shown you that He has heard you?

See also “Secret Prayer,” Hymns, no. 144.

• What are the facsimiles in the book of Abraham?

• Why did Sarai give Hagar to Abram as a wife?

• How was circumcision related to the Lord’s covenant with Abraham?

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• As you and your children read Abraham 1:18 and 2:8, you could invite them to listen for a part of the body that is mentioned in both verses. Maybe you could play a game in which a child closes their eyes and you lead the child somewhere by the hand. Then you could talk about how it feels to have Jesus Christ lead us by the hand or protect us.

• 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.

• Consider showing your children a container of sand, the stars in the night sky, or the picture at the end of this outline. This could help them understand God’s promises in Genesis 13:16; 15:1–6. Talk about how you’ve learned to trust God’s promises, even when they seemed impossible.

• To teach your children about covenants, ask them to tell you about a time when they made a promise or someone made a promise to them. If it’s helpful, share some examples of your own—including covenants you’ve made with God at baptism or in the temple. How have your covenants affected your relationship with God? Choose a few phrases from Genesis 15:1–6; 17:1–8; Abraham 2:9–11 to share some of the blessings God promised to Abraham and Sarah.

• To help your children prepare to make a covenant with God when they are baptized, you could use some of the activity ideas suggested in appendix A or appendix B.

• When Abraham’s life was in danger, he called on God. When Hagar was alone in the wilderness, she learned that God heard her. Consider sharing these two stories with your children: “Abraham and Sarah” and “Hagar” in Old Testament Stories, 28–31, 32–33. What do we learn about God from these stories? Then you could share with each other experiences when you felt that God heard you. A song like “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13) could reinforce this principle.

The Lord has made glorious promises to the faithful, but sometimes the circumstances of our lives can cause us to wonder how these promises can possibly be fulfilled. Abraham and Sarah may have felt that way. What do you learn from their experiences? It may be helpful to begin your study by reviewing what the Lord had promised in Genesis 17:4, 15–22. How did Abraham and Sarah react? (see Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 17:23 [in Genesis 17:17, footnote b]; Genesis 18:9–12). How did the Lord respond to help them have greater faith in His promises? (see Genesis 18:14).

What do you find in these verses that builds your faith? What other experiences—in your life or someone else’s—have strengthened your faith that the Lord will fulfill His promises in His own time and way? You might also ponder how you can sustain your faith when promised blessings are not received in this life. What counsel do you find in Hebrews 11:8–13 and President Russell M. Nelson’s message “Christ Is Risen; Faith in Him Will Move Mountains”? (Liahona, May 2021, 101–4).

See also Doctrine and Covenants 88:68.

What lessons do you learn about fleeing wickedness as you read about Lot and his family? For example, what impresses you about what the angels said and did to help Lot and his family escape destruction? (see Genesis 19:12–17). How does the Lord help you and your family flee or find protection from evil influences in the world? Think about situations where you may be tempted to “[look] back” (verse 26) when you ought to be looking forward with faith in the Savior. What does Luke 9:62 add to your understanding of this concept?

See also Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 19:9–15 (in the Bible appendix).

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught:

“Apparently, what was wrong with Lot’s wife was that she wasn’t just looking back; in her heart she wanted to go back. It would appear that even before she was past the city limits, she was already missing what Sodom and Gomorrah had offered her. …

“It is possible that Lot’s wife looked back with resentment toward the Lord for what He was asking her to leave behind. … So it isn’t just that she looked back; she looked back longingly. In short, her attachment to the past outweighed her confidence in the future. That, apparently, was at least part of her sin.

“… I plead with you not to dwell on days now gone nor to yearn vainly for yesterdays, however good those yesterdays may have been. The past is to be learned from but not lived in. We look back to claim the embers from glowing experiences but not the ashes. And when we have learned what we need to learn and have brought with us the best that we have experienced, then we look ahead and remember that faith is always pointed toward the future. …

“… Dwelling on past lives, including past mistakes, is just not right! It is not the gospel of Jesus Christ. …

“To all [people] of every generation, I call out, ‘Remember Lot’s wife’ [Luke 17:32]. Faith is for the future. Faith builds on the past but never longs to stay there. Faith trusts that God has great things in store for each of us and that Christ truly is the ‘high priest of good things to come’ (Hebrews 9:11)” (“The Best Is Yet to Be,” Ensign, Jan. 2010, 24, 26–27).

Although we don’t know all the reasons God commanded Abraham to offer Isaac as a sacrifice, we do know it was a test of his faith in God. We also know it was “a similitude of God and his Only Begotten Son” (Jacob 4:5). As you read Genesis 22:1–19, you could look for symbols or similarities between Abraham’s offering of Isaac and the Father’s offering of His Son, Jesus Christ. Consider writing what you find in a chart like this:

What symbols or similarities to the Savior’s atoning sacrifice do you find most meaningful? Consider singing or reading the lyrics of a hymn that shows Heavenly Father’s love for us, such as “God Loved Us, So He Sent His Son,” Hymns, no. 187. You might also record your feelings about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and Their sacrifice for you.

If you want to study more about the sacrifice of our Savior, consider reading President Jeffrey R. Holland’s message “Behold the Lamb of God” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 44–46). Why is a lamb such a powerful symbol of the Son of God? What did President Holland teach that increases your reverence for Heavenly Father’s gift?

See also “Akedah (The Binding)” (video), Gospel Library.

• Did Lot offer his daughters to the abuses of a mob?

• Why did God destroy Sodom and Gomorrah?

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• To learn about Abraham and Sarah’s trust in God’s promises, you and your children could talk about a time when they had to wait for something they really wanted. You could then look at the picture of Sarah and Isaac at the beginning of this outline and talk about the promise God made to her and Abraham (see also “Abraham and Sarah,” in Old Testament Stories, 28–31). Help your children think of things that God has promised us if we are faithful. Encourage them to be patient and trust that God will keep His promises.

• To help your children learn the important truth in Genesis 18:14, you could write each word from the first sentence of that verse on separate pieces of paper. Then mix the papers up, and invite your children to put the words in the correct order. You and your children could then read Genesis 17:15–21; 21:1–7 to find an example of something the Lord did that seemed impossible. Share with your children your faith that the Lord will fulfill His promises, even if they seem impossible or take a long time.

• Ask your children about situations in which someone might invite them to do something they know isn’t right. How would we “flee” these situations? Summarize Genesis 19:15–26 by explaining that Lot’s family lived in a very wicked city and angels warned them to leave. As you and your children read together verses 15–17, 26, ask them what it might mean for us today to “escape” evil and “look not behind” (verse 17).

• Using pictures of Abraham and Isaac and of the Crucifixion (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 9, 57) can help your children compare the story in Genesis 22 with the Savior’s sacrifice (see Matthew 27:26–37). What can we learn about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ from the accounts of Abraham and Isaac and of the Crucifixion? (See also “Abraham and Isaac,” in Old Testament Stories, 34–37.)

• Can you think of a simple game to play with your children that requires them to follow directions? Maybe the directions could lead to a hidden picture of the Savior. The game could prompt a conversation about things Heavenly Father has commanded us to do so we can live with Him and Jesus Christ again. Consider singing a song such as “Keep the Commandments” (Children’s Songbook, 146–47). This week’s activity page could help as well.

While reading Genesis 24, ask yourself why Abraham considered the marriage of his son Isaac to be so important. Why is marriage important to God?

What qualities do you find in Rebekah that would contribute to a strong marriage and family? (see especially verses 15–28, 57–61).

See also Topics and Questions, “Marriage,” Gospel Library.

In Isaac and Rebekah’s culture, the oldest son received the birthright, which meant a greater inheritance, along with greater responsibilities for caring for the family. As you read Genesis 25:29–34, ponder why Esau might have been willing to give up his birthright in exchange for a meal. What lessons do you find for yourself in this account? It might help to make two lists: (1) eternal blessings God wants to give you and (2) worldly things that might distract you. Then you could read the passage, replacing “birthright” with something from the first list and “pottage” with something from the second. How will you focus on the Savior and the eternal blessings of His gospel?

See also Matthew 6:19–33; M. Russell Ballard, “Remember What Matters Most,” Liahona, May 2023, 105–7.

While sleeping on a pillow of stones, Jacob had a life-changing dream. It was such a sacred experience that Jacob named the place Bethel, or “house of God,” declaring, “Surely the Lord is in this place” (Genesis 28:16).

As you read Genesis 28, you might ask yourself what made this experience so sacred to Jacob. What was he going through at the time? How might he have been feeling? You could also look for words and phrases in verses 10–22 that remind you of the house of the Lord. What impressions do you receive about God, His house, and His covenants?

At the end of this outline is a painting that depicts Jacob’s dream; you might refer to it as you read. If you were to create your own artistic depiction of his dream, what would you do? What truths from the story would you try to portray?

The hymn “Nearer, My God, to Thee” (Hymns, no. 100) is based on Jacob’s experience. What connections do you see between this song and Genesis 28:10–22? How does the temple help you feel nearer to God? Consider looking for answers to this question in President Russell M. Nelson’s message “The Temple and Your Spiritual Foundation” (Liahona, Nov. 2021, 93–96). You may also want to review the covenants and blessings of the house of the Lord in General Handbook, 27.2 (Gospel Library). How does keeping these covenants bring God’s power into your life?

As you read Genesis 29:31–35 and 30:1–24, look for words describing God’s mercy to Rachel and Leah. Ponder how God has “looked upon [your] affliction” and “remembered” you (Genesis 29:32; 30:22).

As Jacob returned to Canaan, he was “greatly afraid and distressed” about how his brother, Esau, would receive him (Genesis 32:7). As you read Genesis 32–33, ponder your own family relationships—perhaps especially one that needs healing. Maybe this story could inspire you to reach out to someone. Questions like these could guide your reading:

• How did Jacob prepare to meet Esau?

• What stands out to you about Jacob’s prayer found in Genesis 32:9–12?

• What do you learn about forgiveness from Esau’s example?

• How can the Savior help us heal family relationships?

• Why did Abraham not want Isaac to marry a Canaanite?

• Why did Jacob pretend to be Esau?

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• 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. Your children might enjoy acting out the story. This could lead to a conversation about acts of kindness you and your children have seen.

• Consider singing a song about kindness together, such as “Kindness Begins with Me” (Children’s Songbook, 145). Your children could listen for the word “kindness” (or a similar word) and stand when they hear it. How can we be kind like Rebekah?

• Consider using “Jacob and Esau” (in Old Testament Stories, 38–41) to help your children understand the story in Genesis 25:21–34. Maybe your children could imagine that Esau asked for their advice about whether he should trade his birthright for the pottage. What would they say to him?

• What things matter eternally to you and your children? Perhaps your children could find pictures or objects that represent these things. How can we show the Lord that these things are important to us?

• As you read Genesis 28:10–22 together, you could use a ladder or a staircase (or a picture like the one at the end of this outline) to talk about how our covenants are like a ladder. Maybe your children could pretend to climb a ladder, and with each step, talk about times when we promise to obey God, such as when we are baptized, take the sacrament, or go to the temple. How do our covenants bring us closer to God?

• To introduce these verses, you might explain that after many years of hard feelings, Jacob was going to meet Esau again. Read together Genesis 32:6–11. How did Jacob feel? What did he do to get help? Read together Genesis 33:1–4 to discover how the Lord answered Jacob’s prayer. If Jacob and Esau could talk to us today, what might they say to help us when there is contention in our family?

Time and again, good fortune seemed to abandon Joseph, but the Lord never did. As you read Joseph’s story, ponder questions such as these: What did Joseph do to stay close to the Lord? How was the Lord “with him”? (see Genesis 39; 40:1–19; 41:9–45). What do you learn from Joseph’s story that could help you recognize the Lord’s presence in your life?

You might also ask similar questions about your life. What evidence have you seen that the Lord has not forsaken you in times of trial? Consider how you can share your experiences with family members and future generations (see 1 Nephi 5:14).

Of course, you will have other trials in the future. What can you do now to help ensure that these trials don’t pull you away from the Lord? Consider writing a letter to encourage your future self to stay close to Him no matter what. You might include insights from Joseph’s life or from President D. Todd Christofferson’s message “Our Relationship with God” (Liahona, May 2022, 78–81).

See also John 14:18; Romans 8:28; Alma 36:3; Doctrine and Covenants 121:7–8; “Abide with Me!,” Hymns, no. 166.

Joseph had a gift for discerning messages from the Lord through dreams. What can you learn from Genesis 37:5–11; 40:5–8; 41:14–25, 37–38 about receiving and understanding revelation from the Lord? For instance, what can you learn from Joseph’s example when revelation seems difficult to understand? (see Genesis 40:8; 41:16).

Ponder how the Lord is revealing His will to you. What are you doing to act on revelation He has given you? How are you seeking additional guidance from Him?’

If Joseph were to give counsel on how to resist temptation to commit sexual sin, what do you think he would say? Think about this as you read about his experience in Genesis 39. For example, consider how Joseph might respond to concerns like these:

• If no one else knows what I’m doing, what’s the big deal? (see verses 8–9).

• I try to resist, but the temptation just doesn’t seem to stop (see verse 10).

• What should I do when I’m in a situation where temptation is strong? (see verse 12).

How would you explain why obeying the law of chastity is important? (see For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices, 23–28).

Joseph’s example, of course, can apply to other kinds of temptation. With Joseph’s experience in mind, consider making a plan for avoiding and resisting temptation. For example, you could think of a temptation and write down situations to avoid and how you will “flee” when the temptation arises.

Here are some other scriptures that could inform your plan. What do you learn from each about how the Savior can help you resist temptation? Matthew 4:1–11; 1 Corinthians 10:13; 1 Nephi 15:23–24; 3 Nephi 18:17–18.

As you make your plan, it might also help to think about times in the past when you successfully avoided or resisted temptation. How did the Savior help you? (see 2 Nephi 4:18–33).

Joseph’s interpretation of Pharaoh’s dream led to some very wise and practical counsel for surviving a famine (see Genesis 41:15–57). Consider what spiritual messages the Lord might have for you in this account. How do you feel He wants you to prepare for hardships in your future?

See also David A. Bednar, “We Will Prove Them Herewith,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 8–11.

• How was Joseph similar to Jesus Christ?

• What does the Book of Mormon teach about Joseph’s coat?

• What do we understand about what took place between Judah and Tamar?

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• Reading about the hard feelings in Joseph’s family could prompt a discussion about how we should treat family members. To tell the story of Joseph and his brothers from Genesis 37, you could use the pictures in this outline or in “Joseph’s Inspired Dreams” (in Old Testament Stories, 47–51). Let your children share details they know about the story. You might ask your children to imagine they were in Joseph’s family. What would they have said or done to be a peacemaker in the family? For example, what does it mean to “speak peaceably” in our family? (verse 4). How is Jesus Christ a peacemaker in God’s family?

• 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 37:23–28; 39:20; 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 39:2).

• Perhaps your children could search Genesis 39:1–3, 20–23 for every instance of the phrase “The Lord was with Joseph” and similar phrases. Let them share what they think this phrase means. How do we know that the Lord is with us? Tell each other about how you felt God was with you during a challenging time.

• 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? What can we do to move away from sin and closer to Jesus? The video “Temptation Fades as We Seek Christ in Every Thought” (Gospel Library) and a song like “I Need Thee Every Hour” (Hymns, no. 98) can help with this discussion.

  Use music. “Hymns and other sacred songs can help children feel God’s love, feel the Spirit, and learn gospel truths. The melodies, rhythms, and simple rhymes can help children remember gospel truths for years to come. As you sing with children, help them discover and understand the principles taught in the songs” (Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 32).

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

Have you noticed any similarities between Joseph’s life and the atoning mission of Jesus Christ? To see some examples of these similarities, try comparing:

• Genesis 37:3 with Matthew 3:17.

• Genesis 37:26–28 with Matthew 26:14–16.

• Genesis 45:5–7 with Luke 4:18.

• Genesis 47:12 with John 6:35.

What impressions do you have about the Savior and His mission as you read these passages?

Reading about Joseph forgiving his brothers of the terrible things they had done may prompt you to think about someone you are currently struggling to forgive. The following questions may help as you strive to apply this principle:

• Why might it have been hard for Joseph to forgive his brothers? (to review what they did to him, see Genesis 37). What experiences or attitudes might have given Joseph the strength to forgive? (see, for example, Genesis 45:1–15 or 50:15–21).

• What blessings came from Joseph’s forgiveness of his brothers? For example, compare the relationships in Jacob’s family at the beginning of the story (see, for example, Genesis 37:3–11) with the relationships at the end (see Genesis 45:9–15; 50:15–21). How might things have turned out differently if Joseph had not been willing to forgive?

• Consider writing down the name of someone who may need your forgiveness—whether or not they have asked for forgiveness. What can you do to invite the Savior’s healing power into that situation? If forgiving seems too difficult, consider reviewing the counsel of Elder Gerrit W. Gong in the last six paragraphs of his message “Happy and Forever” (Liahona, Nov. 2022, 85). What do you find that gives you hope that you can forgive?

See also Doctrine and Covenants 64:9–11; “Forgiveness: My Burden Was Made Light” (video), Gospel Library.

Jacob’s blessings to his posterity contain vivid imagery, but they aren’t easy to understand. Thankfully, the restored gospel gives us some help. When you read the blessing to Joseph in Genesis 49:22–26, read the following verses too, and see what insights they provide: 1 Nephi 15:12; 2 Nephi 3:4–5; Jacob 2:25; Doctrine and Covenants 50:44.

As you read about Judah’s blessing in Genesis 49:8–12, remember that Jesus Christ was a descendant of Judah. What do you find in these verses that reminds you of the Savior? (see also Revelation 5:5–6, 9; 1 Nephi 15:14–15; Doctrine and Covenants 45:59; 133:46–50).

Reading these blessings might inspire you to review your patriarchal blessing—or, if you don’t have one, to receive one. What words and phrases in your blessing turn your thoughts to Jesus Christ?

See also Randall K. Bennett, “Your Patriarchal Blessing—Inspired Direction from Heavenly Father,” Liahona, May 2023, 42–44.

Though it may not have been clear while he was going through it, Joseph was eventually able to look back on his adversity in Egypt and see that “God meant it unto good” (Genesis 50:20). If you could have visited Joseph while he was in the pit or in prison, how would you have comforted him? How can Genesis 50:19–21 help you in your times of trial?

See also Doctrine and Covenants 122; “How Firm a Foundation,” Hymns, no. 85.

As you read Genesis 50:24–25 and Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 50:24–38 (in the Bible appendix), ponder why it would have been important for Joseph to know about Moses and Joseph Smith so many centuries in advance. How did Joseph Smith fulfill Joseph’s prophecies about him? (see Doctrine and Covenants 1:17–23; 20:7–12; 39:11; 135:3).

• Why did Joseph test his brothers?

• Why did Jacob adopt Joseph’s two sons?

• Why did Jacob place his right hand on Ephraim instead of Manasseh?

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• It might be fun for your children to reenact the story of Joseph reuniting his family (see Genesis 42–44). Or they could use “Joseph and the Famine” (in Old Testament Stories, 57–60) or pictures in this outline to teach the story to each other. Here are some questions that could help your children learn from the story:

  • What did Joseph do to show love for his family? (see Genesis 45:4–15).

  • Why do you feel Joseph forgave his brothers?

  • How do you think Joseph’s brothers felt when they found out Joseph had forgiven them? Who in your life needs to be forgiven? How can you show love and forgiveness?

• You or your children may want to share an experience when they forgave someone or when someone forgave them. You could then sing a song such as “Love One Another” (Children’s Songbook, 136) or “Help Me, Dear Father” (Children’s Songbook, 99).

• 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?

• How can you help your children see the Savior in the story of Joseph saving his family from famine? Consider making a chart with two columns labeled Joseph and Jesus Christ. Help your children search the following pairs of scriptures and fill in the chart with things that Joseph and Jesus have in common: Genesis 37:3 and Matthew 3:17; Genesis 37:26–28 and Matthew 26:14–16; Genesis 45:5–7 and Luke 4:18; and Genesis 47:12 and John 6:35.

• Ask your children what it means to save or rescue someone. If any of them have had an experience being saved or rescued from danger, invite them to share. How did Joseph save his brothers? (see Genesis 42:1–3; 45:5–7). Then you could look at a picture of the Savior together and ask your children to talk about how Jesus saves us.

What impresses you about the women described in Exodus 1–2? How did they help fulfill God’s plan for His people? What do their efforts teach you about service in God’s work?

Before you begin reading Exodus, you might think about a hardship you’re going through—something you hope the Lord will deliver you from. What words and phrases in Exodus 1–3 sound similar to spiritual captivity or other things we face today? Notice also how the children of Israel sought deliverance and how the Lord responded (see, for example, Exodus 2:23–25; 3:7–8). How has the Lord “come down to deliver” you?

Throughout the book of Exodus, you might also note some similarities between Moses and Jesus Christ (see Deuteronomy 18:18–19; 1 Nephi 22:20–21). For example, what similarities do you see between Exodus 1:22; 2:1–10 and Matthew 2:13–16? Or between Exodus 24:18 and Matthew 4:1–2? What do you feel the Lord wants you to understand about Himself and His power?

Can you think of a time when something filled you with awe and wonder? How did you react? How would you describe the emotions you felt?

With that in mind, read Exodus 3:1–6. What impresses you about Moses’s inspiring experience? What did Moses do to show reverence for God? What connections do you see between his actions and reverence for sacred things?

Reading these verses might prompt you to think about holy things and holy places in your life. Why are they sacred to you? How do you treat them differently from things that are common? To guide your pondering, you could refer to the section titled “Remembering the Promises” in Elder David A. Bednar’s message “Exceeding Great and Precious Promises” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2017, 91–93). You might also sing or listen to a hymn that inspires awe, like “I Stand All Amazed” (Hymns, no. 193) and ponder what it is about the gospel that amazes you.

Of course, even when we’ve had wonderful spiritual experiences, there’s a danger of becoming too casual about sacred things. How do you avoid this? Here are two messages that address this issue; pick one, and look for statements that help you: Ulisses Soares, “In Awe of Christ and His Gospel” (Liahona, May 2022, 115–17); Gérald Caussé, “Is It Still Wonderful to You?” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 98–100).

See also Doctrine and Covenants 6:10–12; 63:64.

Today we know Moses as a great prophet and leader. But Moses did not see himself that way when the Lord first called him. As you read Exodus 3–4, list Moses’s concerns and how the Lord responded to each. What do you find in these chapters that might inspire you when you feel inadequate? When have you seen God empower you or others to do His work?

See also “The Church Gives Us Opportunities to Assist in God’s Work” in “Church Organization” in Topics and Questions, Gospel Library.

It can be discouraging when our sincere efforts to do good don’t seem to be working—when we’re trying to do the Lord’s will but we’re not seeing the results we expected. To learn about a similar experience Moses had, read Exodus 5:4–9, 20–23. How did the Lord help Moses overcome his feelings of discouragement? (see Exodus 6:1–13). How has the Lord helped you persist in doing His will?

See also Jeffrey R. Holland, “Waiting on the Lord,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 115–17.

• Why did Moses slay an Egyptian?

• Who was Jethro?

• What can we learn about the glory of God from the burning bush?

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

• After reading Exodus 3:1–5 together, ask your children to summarize these verses in their own words (see also “Moses the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories, 64–66). You could also review the beginning of Elder Ulisses Soares’s message “Reverence for Sacred Things” (Liahona, May 2025, 108). How did Moses show reverence in the Lord’s presence? How does the Lord want us to show reverence? You might also ask your children to help you find (or draw) pictures of sacred places or activities where we should be reverent. What can we do to make our home a sacred place?

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

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

Many passages in the Old Testament point to the Savior’s ministry and atoning sacrifice. The table below lists some of these passages. As you read these verses, what impressions come to you about the Savior?

Prophecies that teach about the Savior are even more abundant and clear in the Book of Mormon. Consider how your faith is strengthened by passages like these: 1 Nephi 11:31–33; 2 Nephi 25:13; Mosiah 3:2–11; Alma 7:10–13.

Latter-day prophets continue to bear special witness of Jesus Christ and His atoning mission. As you listen to general conference this Easter weekend, make note of testimonies of Christ that you hear. What do they teach you about Him?

Easter is a joyful time, because it’s a time to celebrate the Savior’s Atonement and Resurrection. And yet, even during Easter, there are many people who don’t feel joyful for various reasons. What can you do to spread the Savior’s peace and joy this Easter?

One idea is to find messages in the scriptures about the peace and joy Jesus Christ offers, like these: Psalms 16:8–11; 30:2–5; Isaiah 12; 25:8–9; 40:28–31; John 14:27; 16:33; Alma 26:11–22. Consider how you might share these messages with others. For example, maybe you could create Easter cards to share, based on these messages. Be prayerful about who needs to receive your Easter greeting. You might also decide to share your messages on social media, where many people can see them.

Hymns about Christ and the Resurrection, such as “He Is Risen!” (Hymns, no. 199), can also help us feel peace and joy at Easter. Look for phrases in the hymn that, in your opinion, capture the joy of Easter.

See also Jeffrey R. Holland, “Not as the World Giveth,” Liahona, May 2021, 35–38; Mark S. Palmer, “Our Sorrow Shall Be Turned into Joy,” Liahona, May 2021, 88–90.

Here’s an activity that can help you see the many blessings that come through Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Read the scriptures below about what Jesus Christ helps us overcome. Try sorting the passages into these categories: sin, death, trials, and weaknesses (some passages may fit in more than one category). As you read, what impressions do you have about the Savior’s power?

• Isaiah 61:1–3

• Ezekiel 36:26–28

• Matthew 11:28–30

• Luke 1:46–55

• Romans 8:35–39

• Alma 7:10–13

• Alma 11:42–45

• Alma 58:11

• Moroni 10:32–33

• Doctrine and Covenants 19:15–19

• Moses 5:9–12

How would you explain to a friend who isn’t a Christian why Jesus Christ is important to you? Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt’s message “Do You Know Why I as a Christian Believe in Christ?” (Liahona, May 2023, 119–21) can help.

See also Reyna I. Aburto, “The Grave Has No Victory,” Liahona, May 2021, 85–87; Topics and Questions, “Atonement of Jesus Christ,” “Resurrection,” Gospel Library.

What do you learn from the following verses about the price Jesus Christ paid for your salvation: Isaiah 53:3–5; Mosiah 3:7; Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–19? What price did Heavenly Father pay? (see John 3:16).

• The week of Easter is a good time to teach your children about what the Savior did for us in Gethsemane and on the cross. You could start by showing them the pictures below and letting them talk about what’s happening in the pictures. While your children are looking at the pictures, you could read verses that describe these events (see Matthew 26:36–46; 27:35–50; Luke 22:39–46; John 19:16–30). Your children could point out details in the pictures that they hear in the verses.

• How are we blessed because of Jesus’s sacrifice for us? Help your children look for words and phrases that answer this question in Isaiah 53:4–12; Alma 7:11–13; and Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–19. Share with each other how you feel about the Savior after reading these scriptures.

• You could use this week’s activity page or other pictures in this outline to tell your children the story of the Resurrection (see also “Jesus Is Risen,” in New Testament Stories, 139–44). Then let your children tell the story back to you.

• Consider how you will help your children find joy in Christ this Easter. For example, you could sing together a favorite Easter hymn, such as “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today” (Hymns, no. 200) or “Gethsemane” (Gospel Library). To find other songs about the Resurrection, you could look in the topical index of Hymns and Children’s Songbook. You and your children could share with each other why you like these songs and how you feel when you sing them. What do these songs teach us about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?

• Gospel Library has a collection of Easter videos that your children might enjoy. Maybe you could let them pick one to watch. Ask them what they learn about Jesus Christ from the video. You might also ask them to summarize the message of the video in one sentence.

• As you and your children watch general conference together this Easter weekend, help them notice when the Savior’s special witnesses bear testimony of the Resurrection. Perhaps you could make a game of it—invite them to stand every time they hear words like Easter or Atonement or Resurrection. Share with each other why you’re grateful for the living prophets’ testimonies of the Savior.

Hopefully, your will is never opposed to God’s will as Pharaoh’s was. Still, we all have times when our hearts aren’t as soft as they should be. What stands out to you about Pharaoh’s responses to the plagues in Exodus 7:14–25; 8:5–32; 9:1–26; 10:12–29; 12:29–33? Note the clarification in the Joseph Smith Translation of Exodus 7:3, 13; 9:12.

Why is “hard” a good description of Pharaoh’s heart? Consider what you learn from these verses about having a soft heart: 1 Nephi 2:16; Mosiah 3:19; Alma 24:7–8; 62:41; Ether 12:27. As you read about the consequences of Pharaoh’s hard-heartedness, ponder the condition of your heart. What changes do you feel inspired to make?

The only way for the Israelites to be spared from the tenth plague, described in Exodus 11:4–5, was to follow precisely the instructions the Lord gave to Moses in Exodus 12, a ritual known as the Passover. The Passover teaches us through symbols that just as the Lord delivered the Israelites from bondage in Egypt, He can also deliver us from the bondage of sin. To explore this symbolism in Exodus 12:1–42, you could use a chart like this one:

What else do you find in the instructions and symbols of the Passover that reminds you of Jesus Christ and His Atonement? What do these symbols suggest to you about how to receive the blessings of His Atonement?

The Savior commanded the Israelites to observe the Passover each year to help them remember He had delivered them, even after their captivity became a distant memory. As you read His instructions in Exodus 12:14–17, 24–27; 13:1–16, think about what you are doing to remember God’s blessings for you. How can you preserve that remembrance “throughout your generations”? (see Exodus 12:14, 26–27).

What similarities do you see between the feast of the Passover and the sacrament? What can you do to “always remember” Jesus Christ? (Moroni 4:3; 5:2).

You might also ponder other things the Lord wants you to remember; see, for example, Helaman 5:6–12; Moroni 10:3; Doctrine and Covenants 3:3–5, 10; 18:10; 52:40.

See also Kevin W. Pearson, “Are You Still Willing?,” Liahona, Nov. 2022, 67–69; “Always Remember Him” (video), Gospel Library; “In Memory of the Crucified,” Hymns, no. 190.

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

• How did later generations continue to remember the Passover?

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• The plagues described in Exodus 7–11 showed the Egyptians and the Israelites that the Lord has great power. The Lord will help your children throughout their lives when they have faith in His power. To help them learn from this story, you could give each child a paper divided into 10 sections, and invite them to draw pictures of the plagues described in these verses: Exodus 7:17–18; 8:1–4; 8:16–17; 8:20–22; 9:1–6; 9:8–9; 9:22–23; 10:4–5; 10:21–22; 11:4–7 (see also “The Plagues of Egypt” in Old Testament Stories, 67–69). Read together Exodus 7:5 and 9:14 to explain why the Lord sent the plagues.

• Share with your children how the Lord has shown you “that there is none like [Him] in all the earth” (Exodus 9:14). Let them share how they know that the Lord is powerful.

• To help your children visualize what it means to have a soft heart, it might be fun to show them an object that is hard, such as a rock, and another that is soft and absorbent, such as a sponge. You could also pour water over these objects to demonstrate how easily a soft heart receives the word of the Lord. You could then read together a few verses describing how Pharaoh responded to the plagues sent by the Lord (see Exodus 8:28–32; 9:7). Which of the objects best represents Pharaoh’s heart or attitude? What does it mean to have a soft heart? (see Mosiah 3:19). Elder Christopher H. Kim’s message “Harden Not Your Heart” could also help your children understand the difference between a hard heart and a soft one (Liahona, May 2025, 118–20, especially the fifth paragraph).

• You and your children could make a list of some actions that might show when we have a hard heart (for example, using unkind words or being unwilling to share). How can we show the Lord we want to have soft hearts?

• The Passover taught the Israelites to look forward to the Savior and His sacrifice for us. As you explore Exodus 12:1–13 together, help your children see connections between the details of the Passover and Jesus Christ’s Atonement (see also “The Passover” in Old Testament Stories, 70–74). For example, how is Jesus like the lamb described in verse 5?

• Today, we take the sacrament to remember Jesus’s sacrifice. You could show your children a picture of the sacrament and talk about how this ordinance helps us remember Jesus Christ. You might help your children find the word “remember” in the sacrament prayers (see Moroni 4–5). Or sing together a favorite hymn about the sacrament, and help your children notice the peaceful feeling they have when they think about the Savior. How can we seek that feeling when we take the sacrament?

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. What do you find in Exodus 14:13–31 that inspires you to seek God’s power in your life? Ponder how you have seen His power in the past. What have you learned about Him from these experiences?

Exodus 15:1–19 is a song of praise that the Israelites sang after the Lord parted the Red Sea. Which phrases in this song do you find especially meaningful? Maybe there’s a hymn that you feel like singing when the Lord has done something amazing for you, such as “Redeemer of Israel” (Hymns, no. 6). Consider singing or listening to it as part of your worship today.

See also Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3.

Reading about Israel’s journey might lead you to think about things in your life that have seemed “bitter” like the waters of Marah (see Exodus 15:23–27). How has the Lord made bitter things in your life sweet? What value have these experiences had in your life?

You’ll notice more examples of bitter experiences for the Israelites in Exodus 16 and 17. It’s tempting to be critical of their murmuring or complaining, but as you read, consider whether you have ever done the same thing. What do you learn from the Israelites’ experiences that can help you murmur less and trust God more? What do these verses teach you about God?

See also 1 Nephi 2:11–12.

Since we all need to eat, the Lord often compares spiritual things to food. Look for His spiritual lessons in the Israelites’ experiences with manna in Exodus 16. For example, what do you find in the Lord’s instructions in Exodus 16:16, 19, 22–26 that applies to your spiritual nourishment?

To discover other lessons the Lord may want you to learn from this miracle, ponder questions like these:

• What does the Lord give me that is like the daily manna that He gave the Israelites?

• What can I do that is like gathering manna?

You may find additional insights in one or more of these videos: “Daily Bread: Pattern,” “Daily Bread: Experience,” and “Daily Bread: Change” (Gospel Library).

Think of other things, besides eating, that you do every day. Why do certain things have to be done daily to be effective? What do you feel inspired to do to seek daily spiritual experiences?

See also Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Daily Restoration,” Liahona, Nov. 2021, 77–79; “Daily Restoration” (video), Gospel Library.

Think about the Savior as you read Exodus 17:1–7. How is Jesus Christ like a rock to you? (see Psalm 62:6–7; Helaman 5:12). How is He like water? (see John 4:10–14; 1 Corinthians 10:1–4; 1 Nephi 11:25).

There may be times in your life when you can relate to Moses—when others are depending on you, but your “hands [feel] heavy” (Exodus 17:12). Other times, you might be more like Aaron, Hur, and Jethro, who supported Moses. Put yourself in the position of each of these people as you read Exodus 17:8–16; 18:13–26, and see what the Lord teaches you about His work.

See also Mosiah 4:27; 18:8–9.

• What was the purpose of the pillar of cloud and fire?

• What was symbolic about Israel’s crossing of the Red Sea?

• Why did the Lord command Moses to destroy the Amalekites?

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• When the Lord parted the Red Sea, Moses and the Israelites saw how powerful He is. Let your children help you think of a fun way to reenact the story from Exodus 14:5–22 (see also “The Passover” in Old Testament Stories, 70–74). Maybe you could set up chairs or blankets and “divide” them like the Red Sea. Then you could share with each other how you have seen God’s power in your lives.

• What does Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3 add to our understanding of the story in Exodus 14? Consider telling your children about an experience when the Holy Ghost told you something in your mind or heart, and invite them to talk about their experiences. You could also sing a song about the Holy Ghost, such as “Let the Holy Spirit Guide” (Hymns, no. 143).

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

• As you and your children read Exodus 15:23–25; 16:14–15; 17:1–6, let them help you find objects to help tell each story—like a branch (to heal the water at Marah), a jar or pot (to fill with manna), and a rock (for the water at Horeb). What do these stories remind us about what Jesus Christ does for us? As part of your discussion, you might read Matthew 7:24–27; John 4:10–14; 6:29–35, 48–51; Helaman 5:12; Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79.

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

President Russell M. Nelson taught: “In the Old Testament, the Hebrew term from which peculiar was translated is segullah, which means ‘valued property,’ or ‘treasure.’ … For us to be identified by servants of the Lord as his peculiar people is a compliment of the highest order” (“Children of the Covenant,” Ensign, May 1995, 34). How do President Nelson’s words affect the way you understand Exodus 19:3–6? How has the Lord shown you that He treasures you?

The Lord told Moses that the children of Israel needed to be prepared before they could “meet with God” (Exodus 19:10–11, 17) and keep a covenant with Him (see Exodus 19:5). How do you prepare for spiritual experiences, including the sacrament and temple ordinances? How can you help others prepare? What do you learn about preparation from Luke 6:12–13; Enos 1:2–6; Alma 17:2–3?

While the Israelites were gathered at the base of Mount Sinai, they heard the voice of God give the Ten Commandments (see Deuteronomy 4:12–13). These, of course, aren’t God’s only commandments—there are many others in the scriptures. So as you read Exodus 20:1–17, ask yourself why God emphasized these ten in particular. Here’s a sample table you could use as you ponder the importance of the Ten Commandments in your life:

• How does keeping these ten commandments help you keep the two great commandments Jesus gave in Matthew 22:34–40?

• What are things that you may be tempted to put before God? What blessings have you seen from putting God first?

• How would you respond to someone who says the Ten Commandments were given a long time ago and do not apply today? What examples from your life would you share as part of your response? How might the hymn “How Gentle God’s Commands” (Hymns, no. 125) affect the way you explain God’s commandments to others?

• How has the Lord fulfilled the promise in Exodus 20:6 in your life?

See also “The Great Commandment—Love the Lord,” in Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Ezra Taft Benson (2014), 37–45; Dallin H. Oaks, “No Other Gods,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 72–75; Topics and Questions, “Commandments,” Gospel Library.

As you read Exodus 24:3–8, consider the covenants you have made with God. While Israel’s covenant included rituals that are different from what God requires today, you may notice some similarities. For example, verses 4, 5, and 8 mention an altar, animal sacrifices, and blood. What could these things represent, and how do they relate to your covenants?

Try to put yourself in the Israelites’ place—you’re in the wilderness, Moses has been gone for 40 days, and a confrontation with the Canaanites over the promised land is in your future (see Exodus 32:1–8). Why do you think the Israelites wanted a golden idol? What inspires you about Moses’s plea to the Lord in Exodus 33:11–17?

While the Israelites’ sin was serious, this story also includes a message of God’s mercy and forgiveness. What does Exodus 34:1–10 teach you about the Savior? (see Exodus 32:30–32; Mosiah 14:4–8; 15:9; Doctrine and Covenants 45:3–5).

President Russell M. Nelson explained: “In my much younger years, I studied the work of others who had compiled lists of things to do and things not to do on the Sabbath. It wasn’t until later that I learned from the scriptures that my conduct and my attitude on the Sabbath constituted a sign between me and my Heavenly Father [see Exodus 31:13; Ezekiel 20:12, 20]. With that understanding, I no longer needed lists of dos and don’ts. When I had to make a decision whether or not an activity was appropriate for the Sabbath, I simply asked myself, ‘What sign do I want to give to God?’ That question made my choices about the Sabbath day crystal clear” (“The Sabbath Is a Delight,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 130). Ponder what sign you want to give God with your observance of the Sabbath.

When Moses came down from the mountain, he brought the law written on stone tables. After finding that the Israelites had broken their covenant, Moses broke the tables (see Exodus 31:18; 32:19). Later, God commanded Moses to make another set of stone tables and take them back to the mountain (see Exodus 34:1–4). The Joseph Smith Translation of Exodus 34:1–2 (in the Bible appendix) clarifies that the first set of stone tables included the ordinances of God’s “holy order,” or the Melchizedek Priesthood. The second set included “the law of a carnal commandment.” This was a lesser law administered by the “lesser priesthood” (see Doctrine and Covenants 84:17–27), which was meant to prepare the Israelites for the higher law and higher priesthood so they could enter into God’s presence.

• What was significant about the Israelites’ unwillingness to have God speak directly to them?

• Why did the Israelites create a golden calf to worship?

• Who can see God’s face and live?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Exodus 35–40 describes the Israelites’ efforts to build a tabernacle, where sacred ordinances would help them become a holy people. As you read these chapters, look for the things the Lord asked His people to place in the tabernacle. What might these items represent? What do they suggest to you about increasing in holiness? Especially consider how these items turn your thoughts toward the Savior. A table like this might help you:

Of course, simply being in holy places doesn’t make us holy. Leviticus 19 describes laws and commandments the Lord gave to help the Israelites increase in holiness. What do you find in these commandments that could help you seek holiness from the Lord? What do you feel impressed to do to more fully live these principles?

See also Henry B. Eyring, “Holiness and the Plan of Happiness,” Liahona, Nov. 2019, 100–103; “The Tabernacle” (video), Gospel Library.

In the year after leaving Egypt, the relationship of the children of Israel with Jehovah could be described as inconsistent. And yet, as you read Exodus 35:4–35 and 36:1–7, notice how the Israelites responded to the commandment to build the tabernacle. What do you learn from the Israelites that could help you better serve the Lord?

He may not ask you for precious metals, linens, or wood for a tabernacle. What has the Lord given you, and what is He asking you to offer? When has your “heart stirred [you] up to come unto the work”?

See also Topics and Questions, “Sacrifice,” Gospel Library.

Exodus 40:12–14 refers to ancient ordinances that are also administered in our day in the house of the Lord. Here are some additional verses that can help you learn about how these ordinances testify of Jesus Christ:

• Washing: Psalm 51:2; Ezekiel 36:25–27

• Clothing in holy garments: Isaiah 61:10; Matthew 22:11–14; Revelation 19:7–8

• Anointing: Luke 4:18–19; Acts 10:38

Much of the book of Leviticus may seem strange to us—animal sacrifices, rituals involving blood and water, and laws governing small details of life. But these rituals and laws were meant to teach principles that are familiar—repentance, holiness, and the Savior’s Atonement. To find these principles as you read Leviticus 1:1–9; 4; 16, consider questions like these:

• What words or phrases do I find that remind me of Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice?

• What do I learn from these sacrifices about the Savior’s sacrifice?

• How am I like the people who made these sacrifices?

The Lord doesn’t require animal sacrifices anymore. But sacrifice is still an important principle of the gospel. To learn about the kinds of sacrifice the Lord does require, study 3 Nephi 9:19–20; Doctrine and Covenants 64:34. How are you offering these kinds of sacrifices? What does Moses 5:7 teach you about how you should view your sacrifices?

See also “Thoughts to Keep in Mind: The Tabernacle and Sacrifice.”

• Why did the Lord command Moses to wash, anoint, and clothe Aaron and his sons?

• What as the Day of Atonement?

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• At the end of this outline is a picture of the Israelites’ wilderness tabernacle. You might want to look at it with your children and ask them what materials would have been needed to build the tabernacle. Then you could read together Exodus 35:20–29 to find out how these materials were provided. How has the Lord invited us to contribute to building His kingdom?

• Consider reading with them Exodus 36:1 to find out what the Lord gave Bezaleel and Aholiab to help build the tabernacle. You could then talk with your children about what you feel the Lord has given them to help build His kingdom. How can we use these things to bless others?

• Exodus 40:17–34 lists things that were part of the Israelites’ tabernacle. Maybe you and your children could find them in these verses and in the picture of the tabernacle at the end of this outline. Talk about how each part of the tabernacle could teach about the Savior or Heavenly Father. For example, the ark of testimony could remind us of God’s commandments, the altar could remind us of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, and so on.

• What holy places do we have today that help us feel closer to Jesus Christ? As part of this conversation, you could watch together the video “Temples” (Gospel Library). You could also sing a song like “Holy Places” (Gospel Library). Share with each other how you feel about sacred places like the temple.

• The animal sacrifices described in the Old Testament were meant to teach the children of Israel about forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Consider how reading about these sacrifices could do the same for your children. You could show pictures of Jesus Christ in Gethsemane and on the cross (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 56, 57) as you read with the children Leviticus 1:1–4. Help them find words or phrases that remind them of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

• You might also read together 3 Nephi 9:19–20 to find out what we are commanded to sacrifice instead of animals. What does it mean to offer a broken heart and contrite spirit to the Lord? See Guide to the Scriptures, “Broken Heart” (Gospel Library) for help answering this question.

In Numbers 11:11–17, 24–29, notice the problem Moses faced and the solution God proposed. What do you think Moses meant when he said he wished “that all the Lord’s people were prophets”? (verse 29). As you ponder this question, look for possible answers in President Russell M. Nelson’s message “Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 93–96).

Saying we can all receive revelation, however, doesn’t mean we all can lead God’s people the way Moses did. The event in Numbers 12 makes this clear. What cautions do you find in this chapter? What do you feel the Lord wants you to understand about personal revelation and following His prophet?

See also 1 Nephi 10:17; Doctrine and Covenants 28:1–7; Dallin H. Oaks, “Two Lines of Communication,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 83–86.

Some people are surprised to learn that Moses, the mighty leader who stood before Pharaoh and performed stunning miracles with the Lord’s power, was also “very meek” (Numbers 12:3). What does it mean to be meek? Consider studying Elder David A. Bednar’s explanation in “Meek and Lowly of Heart” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 30–33) or “Meek, Meekness” in Guide to the Scriptures (Gospel Library).

What do you learn from Moses’s examples of meekness in Exodus 18:13–25; Numbers 11:26–29; Numbers 12; Hebrews 11:24–27; and Moses 1:10–11? You might also ponder how the Savior showed meekness (see Matthew 11:29; 27:11–14; Luke 22:41–42; John 13:4–5). What do these examples teach you?

As you read Numbers 13–14, try to put yourself in the place of the Israelites. Why do you think they wanted to “return into Egypt”? (Numbers 14:3). How would you describe the other “spirit” Caleb had? (Numbers 14:24). What impresses you about the faith of Caleb and Joshua, and how might you apply their examples to situations you face?

Book of Mormon prophets knew the story found in Numbers 21:4–9 and understood its spiritual significance. Read their teachings about this story in 1 Nephi 17:40–41; Alma 33:18–22; and Helaman 8:13–15. Here are some questions to ponder as you do:

• What could the brass serpent represent?

• What might the snakebites represent?

• The Israelites had to “[behold] the serpent of brass” (Numbers 21:9) to be healed. Why do you think some people refused to look? Does something similar ever happen to you?

• What do you feel inspired to do to more fully “look upon the Son of God with faith” and be healed? (Helaman 8:15). You may find some ideas in President D. Todd Christofferson’s message “Look to God and Live” (Liahona, Nov. 2025, 86–90)

Reading these passages might remind you of other times in the scriptures when people needed to keep their focus on Christ. For example, compare the message of Numbers 21:4–9 with Matthew 14:25–31 and 1 Nephi 8:24–28 (see also the pictures at the end of this week’s outline). What tends to draw us away from Christ? How does He bless people who stay focused on Him?

See also “Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee” (Hymns, no. 141).

When Balak, the king of Moab, learned that the Israelites were approaching, he called for Balaam, a man known for pronouncing blessings and curses. Balak wanted him to curse the Israelites. Notice how Balak tried to persuade Balaam (see Numbers 22:5–7, 15–17), and think about temptations you might face to go against God’s will. What impresses you about Balaam’s responses in Numbers 22:18, 38; 23:8, 12, 26; 24:13? Sadly, Balaam eventually gave in to pressure and betrayed Israel (see Numbers 31:16; Jude 1:11). Ponder how you can remain faithful to the Lord despite pressure from others.

• What was significant about Oshea being called Joshua?

• Who was Balaam?

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

• As you sing or listen to a song about gratitude, such as “Count Your Blessings” (Hymns, no. 241), your children could draw pictures of blessings the Lord has given them.

• To introduce Numbers 12, you could tell your children that the Lord was unhappy with Aaron and Miriam, Moses’s brother and sister. Invite them to read Numbers 12:1–8 to find out why. Consider using the Gospel Art Book to help your children find examples of people in the scriptures who respected the Lord’s prophet and were blessed. How are we blessed when we follow the Lord’s prophet?

• You could use “Moses and the Brass Serpent” in Old Testament Stories, 83–84, to help your children learn what happened in Numbers 21:6–9. How is the brass serpent like Jesus Christ? (see John 3:14–15). Your children might enjoy making a serpent out of paper and writing on it some simple things they can do to “look upon the Son of God with faith” (Helaman 8:15).

• Older children could choose one of the following scriptures and share what it adds to their understanding of the story: 1 Nephi 17:41; Alma 33:18–20; Helaman 8:13–15; Doctrine and Covenants 6:36.

• Summarize Numbers 22:1–18 for your children, emphasizing how Balaam refused to curse God’s people, even though Balak, the king of Moab, offered him honor and riches. Then you could help your children search the following verses for phrases that they feel show that Balaam wanted to follow God: Numbers 22:18; 23:26; 24:13. Perhaps your children could pick one phrase they like and write it on a card to help them remember to obey the Lord.

The law of Moses included many outward ceremonies and rituals. As you’ll see in Moses’s counsel in Deuteronomy, the Lord was also concerned about His people’s inward state—the spiritual condition of their hearts.

In the passages below, look for the word heart, and ponder what it might symbolize. You might think of these passages as a kind of spiritual checkup on your heart. What diagnosis would you give yourself? What treatments would you prescribe to improve the spiritual health of your heart? Write down your impressions:

• Deuteronomy 6:4–7:

• Deuteronomy 8:2–5:

• Deuteronomy 8:11–17:

• Deuteronomy 29:18–20:

• Deuteronomy 30:6–10:

• Deuteronomy 30:14–20:

One way to organize your thoughts could be to draw a heart and write inside it things that the Lord says you should have in your heart. Then you could write outside it things that you should keep out of your heart.

How do you show that you love God with all your heart? For ideas, see “Love God, love your neighbor” in For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices, 10–12.

See also M. Russell Ballard, “Lovest Thou Me More Than These?,” Liahona, Nov. 2021, 51–53.

Most of the Israelites who would enter the promised land had not seen the plagues in Egypt or crossed the Red Sea. Moses knew that they—and future generations—would need to remember God’s miracles and God’s laws to remain God’s people.

What counsel do you find in Deuteronomy 6:4–12, 20–25 that could help you remember the great things God has done for you? What are you inspired to do so that the word of the Lord will daily “be in thine heart”? (verse 6).

You might also study Brother Jan E. Newman’s message “Preserving the Voice of the Covenant People in the Rising Generation” (Liahona, Nov. 2023, 36–38) and consider how you will pass your faith in Christ to future generations.

See also Deuteronomy 11:18–21; Dale G. Renlund, “Consider the Goodness and Greatness of God,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 41–44; Bible Dictionary, “Frontlets or phylacteries.”

We haven’t yet arrived at the day “when there shall be no poor among you” (Deuteronomy 15:4), so the principles about helping the poor in Deuteronomy 15 are still valuable, even if the particular practices have changed. Notice what verses 1–15 teach about why we help people in need and what our attitude should be about it.

What does it mean to “open thine hand wide” to people in need? (verses 8, 11). What do you learn from the Lord’s example about helping people in need? (see verse 15).

See also “Have I Done Any Good?,” Hymns, no. 223.

Peter, Nephi, Moroni, and the Savior Himself all commented on the prophecy in Deuteronomy 18:15–19 (see Acts 3:20–23; 1 Nephi 22:20–21; Joseph Smith—History 1:40; 3 Nephi 20:23). What do you learn about the Savior from these verses? Think about what you’ve read about Moses over the past few weeks. How is Moses “like unto” Jesus Christ?

It might be interesting to compare Moses’s words in Deuteronomy 29:9; 30:15–20 with some of Lehi’s final teachings to his family in 2 Nephi 2:26–29; 4:4. How did Lehi expand on what Moses taught? What do you find in these passages that inspires you to “choose life”? (Deuteronomy 30:19).

• How did the Israelites follow Moses’s instructions to remember the Lord?

• Why did the Lord command Israel to destroy the Canaanites?

• What happened to Moses at the end of his life?

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

• Read with your children the Lord’s counsel to the Israelites to put scripture passages where they would see them every day (see Deuteronomy 6:6–9). This might inspire you and your children to think of ways to make sure you don’t “forget the Lord” (verse 12) and to remember what He has done for you.

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

• As you read Deuteronomy 18:18 together, help your children understand that the Prophet like Moses in this verse is Jesus Christ. Maybe you could look at pictures of things Moses did and things Jesus Christ did, and let your children match them (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 15, 16, 38, 39). What has our prophet today taught us about the Savior?

• Talking about Deuteronomy 29:12–13 provides an opportunity for you and your children to talk about covenants they will make or have made with Heavenly Father. What does it mean to be God’s people? How do our promises make us God’s people? (see verse 13; see also Mosiah 18:8–10).

• If your children need help understanding what a covenant is, suggest that they find a definition in “Covenant” in the Guide to the Scriptures (Gospel Library). What promises did God and the Israelites make with each other in Deuteronomy 30:8–10? What promises have we made with God? (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:37, 77). How do these promises connect us with Him? Consider singing together a song about covenants, such as “Standing on the Promises” (Gospel Library).

Imagine what it might have been like for Joshua to be called to replace Moses. Notice what the Lord said in Joshua 1:1–9 to encourage him. Think about the difficult challenges you face; what in these verses gives you courage?

The name Joshua (Yehoshua or Yeshua in Hebrew) means “Jehovah saves.” And the name Jesus comes from Yeshua. So as you read about Joshua, consider his role in leading the children of Israel across the Jordan River and into the promised land. How was his mission similar to what Christ does for us?

As He encouraged Joshua, the Lord gave counsel in Joshua 1:8 about the scriptures, or “the word of the law.” Considering Joshua’s heavy responsibility, why might this counsel have been especially helpful?

When the Lord invites us to read the scriptures, He often uses words that go beyond just reading. He also promises great blessings. The table below can help you discover these invitations and promised blessings:

How has the Lord fulfilled these promises in your life? Now may be a good time to evaluate your scripture study habits. What’s going well? What do you feel inspired to do to have more meaningful experiences with the word of God?

See also “As I Search the Holy Scriptures,” Hymns, no. 277.

New Testament Christians saw Rahab as an example of the power of both faith and works (see Hebrews 11:31; James 2:25). As you read Joshua 2, consider the role of Rahab’s faith and works in saving herself, her family, and the Israelite spies. What does this teach you about how your faith in Christ and your works can influence yourself and others?

The Lord worked wonders among His people as He led them into the promised land, and He can do the same for you. Here are some questions to guide your study of Joshua 3–4:

• Why do you think the Israelites needed to sanctify themselves before they crossed the Jordan River? (see Joshua 3:5).

• Note that the river parted only after “the feet of the priests … were dipped in the brim of the water” (Joshua 3:13, 15). Why is that significant?

• Several other significant events happened at the Jordan River—see 2 Kings 2:6–15; 5:1–14; and Mark 1:9–11. What connections do you see between these events?

• How has the Lord done “wonders” in your life? (Joshua 3:5). How can you experience—or recognize—those wonders more often? (for example, see Joshua 3:17).

Joshua 6–8 deals with battles over the lands of Jericho and Ai. As you read these chapters, consider how you battle temptation (for example, see Joshua 7:10–13). What do you learn about how God can help you and what you need to do to access His power? For example, what impresses you about the Lord’s instructions for taking Jericho? (see Joshua 6:1–5). Perhaps the account in Joshua 7 will inspire you to determine if “there is an accursed thing” in your life that you need to remove (Joshua 7:13).

Joshua’s final teachings to the Israelites in Joshua 23–24 include important warnings, counsel, and promised blessings. Perhaps you could make a list of what you find. Considering everything the Israelites had been through, why do you think Joshua chose to tell them these things at the end of his life? What do you find that inspires you to “cleave unto the Lord”? (Joshua 23:8).

See also Dale G. Renlund, “Choose You This Day,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 104–6.

• What was the significance of the parting of the Jordan River?

• Why was Achan’s sin so serious?

• What occurred on Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal?

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• Here is one way to help your children “be strong and of a good courage” (Joshua 1:6) through Jesus Christ. Invite them to find a phrase that is repeated in Joshua 1:6, 9, and 18, and write it down or memorize it. Help your children think of situations where they might need this message, just as Joshua did. You could also review together some of the stories in Joshua 1–4; 6 (see also “Joshua the Prophet” and “Rahab and the Spies” in Old Testament Stories, 85–91). How did the people in these stories show courage and strength in the Lord?

• Reading Joshua 1:8 could inspire your children to read the scriptures on their own. Help them find words in this verse that teach them how and why we should read the scriptures. They could look for the same thing in 1 Nephi 15:23–24; 2 Nephi 31:20; 32:3; Jacob 4:6; Helaman 3:29–30. You could also help them make and carry out a plan to read the scriptures.

• You might use the story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River as a symbol of baptism—giving up our old life in the wilderness and starting a new one in a covenant relationship with God. So as you read together Joshua 3–4 (or “Joshua the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories, 85–89), you could also look at a picture of Jesus being baptized and explain that Jesus was baptized in the same river the Israelites crossed. You could then sing a song such as “Baptism” (Children’s Songbook, 100–101). Share with each other how being baptized is like starting a new life in Jesus Christ’s kingdom.

• What could you do to help your children learn to choose to follow Jesus Christ, as Joshua invited the Israelites to do? You might invite them to:

  • Memorize a short phrase from Joshua 24:15. Try to make it fun for your children. The number of words they memorize may depend on their age.

  • Find stories about people who chose to serve Jesus Christ. They could look in the Friend magazine, the Gospel Art Book, or Old Testament Stories and other scripture stories books.

  • Role-play situations in which they can choose to follow and serve the Savior.

The book of Judges can be both a warning and an encouragement. Look for this warning and encouragement as you read Judges 2:1–19; 3:5–12. How do you feel the warning and encouragement apply to you?

For example, if Judges 2:19 were about you and your temptations rather than about the ancient Israelites, what might it say? If Judges 3:9 were about what the Lord had done to deliver you, what might it say?

Consider reading the question and answer on page 9 of For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices. How do you feel this applies to the Israelites’ experience in the book of Judges? What does this teach you about Jesus Christ?

Sometimes the faith of one person can inspire faith in many others. In Judges 4, that one person was Deborah. Read about her in Judges 4:1–15, and note the influence she had on people around her. Here are some questions to help you consider how her experience might apply to your life:

• How would you describe the conditions the Israelites were in at the time? (see verses 1–3). What similarities do you see to conditions today—in individuals and society?

• What words or actions of Deborah show you that she had faith in the Lord? How did her faith influence others? What else impresses you about her?

• What do you think Deborah meant by her question in verse 14: “Is not the Lord gone out before thee?” How does the Lord “go out before” you? (see Doctrine and Covenants 84:87–88).

Ponder how your faith in Jesus Christ could bless others the way Deborah’s faith blessed Barak and the other Israelites. To help you think about this, you might study Elder Neil L. Andersen’s message “We Talk of Christ” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 88–91). Search the message for (1) reasons to speak more openly about the Savior and (2) ways to do it.

Then you might make a list of things you know about Jesus Christ—from the scriptures, from words of living prophets, and from your personal experience. Who needs to know this? How will you share it?

See also Matthew 5:14–16; 1 Peter 3:15; “Each Life That Touches Ours for Good,” Hymns, no. 293.

As you read Judges 6–8, make note of instances where the Lord asked Gideon to believe something that might have seemed unlikely. Has He ever asked something similar of you?

What do you feel the Lord is trying to teach you with this account? How have you seen the Lord do His work in ways that seemed unlikely?

Samson lost both his physical strength and his spiritual strength because he violated his covenants with God, including those that applied specifically to Nazarites (for information about the Nazarites, see Numbers 6:1–6; Judges 13:7). As you read about Samson in Judges 13–16, note verses that show that the Lord was with Samson, as well as verses showing that Samson was not fully committed to the Lord.

You might also ponder the covenants you have made with the Lord. How have these covenants brought His power into your life? What do you learn from Samson’s experiences that inspires you to stay true to your covenants with God?

Sister Ann M. Dibb taught: “Samson was born with great potential. His mother was promised, ‘He shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines’ [Judges 13:5]. But as Samson grew, he looked more to the world’s temptations than to God’s direction. He made choices because they ‘pleaseth [him] well’ [Judges 14:3] rather than because those choices were right. Repeatedly, the scriptures use the phrase ‘and he went down’ [Judges 14:7] as they tell of Samson’s journeys, actions, and choices. Instead of arising and shining forth to fulfill his great potential, Samson was overcome by the world, lost his God-given power, and died a tragic, early death” (“Arise and Shine Forth,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2012, 118).

See also Dallin H. Oaks, “Covenants and Responsibilities,” Liahona, May 2024, 93–96; Ulisses Soares, “Covenant Confidence through Jesus Christ,” Liahona, May 2024, 17–21.

• What were some of the false gods of the Canaanites?

• What does it mean that Deborah was a prophetess?

• Was it appropriate for Gideon to ask God for a sign?

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• Judges 3 describes a pattern that teaches about the Savior’s power to deliver us from sin. To help your children identify this pattern, you could write down these phrases: “did evil,” “cried unto the Lord,” and “raised up a deliverer.” Then your children could look for these phrases in Judges 3:7–9 and Judges 3:12–15. What do we learn about the Lord from this pattern?

• To emphasize that Jesus Christ is our Deliverer, you could gather several pictures of people, including a picture of Jesus, and place them face down. Let your children take turns flipping over the pictures. When they find the picture of Jesus, sing a song about Him, such as “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34–35), and tell your children about how He has delivered you.

• You can use “Deborah the Prophetess” in Old Testament Stories, 92–95, to tell your children the story in Judges 4. Share with each other what you admire about Deborah. How did her faith in the Lord bless the people around her? What can we do to help others have more faith in Jesus Christ?

• Use Judges 7:4–7, this week’s activity page, or “The Army of Gideon” in Old Testament Stories, 96–99, to teach your children about how the Lord made Israel’s army smaller. Why did the Lord want Gideon’s army to be so small? (see Judges 7:2).

• Your children could draw pictures of a sword, shield, trumpet, lamp, and pitcher and talk about which of these objects they would want in a battle. Then they could read Judges 7:16 to learn what the Lord told Gideon’s army to use. As you read about the battle in Judges 7:19–21, share with each other what you learn about the Lord from this story.

• Samson’s covenants with the Lord gave him physical strength, just as our covenants give us spiritual strength. Your children might enjoy doing some physical exercises and discussing how those exercises can help make our bodies strong. How does keeping our covenants make our spirits strong? (see Mosiah 18:8–10; Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79).

Life is hard for a widow in any era. But when Ruth’s husband died, her situation was especially hard. In Israelite culture at the time, a woman without a husband or sons had no right to property and very few ways to earn a living. As you read Ruth’s story, notice how the Lord turned tragedy into great blessings. What do you notice about Ruth that might have helped her? How did Boaz redeem Ruth from her desperate situation? (see Ruth 4:4–10). How were both Ruth and Boaz like Jesus Christ?

See also “Be Still, My Soul,” Hymns, no. 124.

Perhaps you have suffered a great loss, as Ruth and Naomi did (see Ruth 1:1–5). Or maybe, like Hannah, you long for blessings you have not yet received (see 1 Samuel 1:1–10). How did these women show their faith in God? What do you learn from their examples?

Of course, not everyone who prays for a child receives one, and not everyone whose spouse dies remarries. But everyone who turns to the Savior receives His help and guidance. Consider how you have “come to trust” the Lord (Ruth 2:12) during your difficult times.

See also Amy A. Wright, “Abide the Day in Christ,” Liahona, Nov. 2023, 9–11.

When their enemies attacked, the Israelites apparently thought that simply possessing the ark of the covenant would protect them. As you read 1 Samuel 4–6, think about why that didn’t work. (Note also the unrighteous actions of Eli’s sons, who served as priests in the tabernacle, in 1 Samuel 2:12–25.) What do you think the Lord was trying to teach His people? What do you learn from what happened to the Philistines after capturing the ark? (see chapters 5–6). What do you learn from Israel’s efforts to regain the Lord’s protection in 1 Samuel 7?

You might be inspired by reading Hannah’s poem of praise in 1 Samuel 2:1–10. What do you find in her words that could have helped Eli’s sons and the rest of the Israelites?

At times, you may feel like Samuel, who heard the voice of the Lord but did not recognize it. Like all of us, Samuel had to learn how to recognize the Lord’s voice. As you study 1 Samuel 3, what do you learn from this young boy about hearing and obeying the Lord’s voice? You might also search these additional scriptures and make a list of guidelines that can help a person recognize the Lord’s voice: 1 Kings 19:11–12; Luke 24:15–32; 3 Nephi 11:3–7; Doctrine and Covenants 6:22–23; 8:2–3; 9:7–9.

Other times, you may feel that the heavens are shut and that God does not want to communicate with you. President Russell M. Nelson said, “Does God really want to speak to you? Yes!” (“Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 93–96). As you study President Nelson’s message, what do you find that inspires you to hear and obey the voice of the Lord? What does President Nelson invite you to do, and what blessings does he promise? You can also find invitations and promised blessings about revelation in “Walk in God’s light” (For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices, 16–20). Consider choosing one thing you can do to “increase your spiritual capacity to receive revelation.”

• What did it mean to glean a field?

• Why was it significant that Boaz was one of Naomi’s “next kinsmen”?

• Why did Naomi instruct Ruth to lay at the feet of Boaz?

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• As you share with your children the story of Ruth (you could use “Ruth and Naomi” in Old Testament Stories, 100–103), invite them to raise their hands every time they hear an act of kindness in the story. They could also share how they feel when others are kind to them, or when they are kind to others. How has the Savior been kind to us? How can we follow His example? (see “Kindness Begins with Me,” Children’s Songbook, 145).

• The stories of Ruth and Hannah can inspire your children to stay faithful during hard times. Consider helping them create a simple chart with the headings Trials, Actions, Blessings. Then you could read together Ruth 1:3–5, 8, 16; 2:1–3, 8–12; 4:13–17; 1 Samuel 1:1–18 and write under the headings what they find in these verses. How did Ruth and Hannah show their faith in the Lord? You or your children could then share examples of how the Lord has blessed you during hard times.

• To learn about Hannah, your children could read 1 Samuel 1:1–18 or “Hannah” in Old Testament Stories (104–5) or watch “Hannah’s Faith” (video, Gospel Library). It might be fun to toss a ball to a child and invite them to tell part of the story before passing the ball to someone else. What do we learn about prayer from Hannah’s example?

• Perhaps a simple role-play could help your children learn from Samuel’s experience with revelation. One child could pretend to be Samuel, and another could pretend to be Eli as you read 1 Samuel 3:1–10 (see also “Samuel the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories, 106–9, or the video “Samuel and Eli,” Gospel Library). What do we learn from Samuel about how to hear the voice of the Lord? How do we show that we are willing to hear when the Lord speaks to us?

• Ask your children how they would explain to someone how the Lord speaks to them. You could help them look for answers in Doctrine and Covenants 6:22–23; 8:2–3; 9:7–9.

1 Samuel 8 tells of an event that would forever change the destiny of the Israelites. For protection against their enemies, the Israelites wanted what their neighbors had—a king to rule over them. As you read about their request and the Lord’s response, think about who you look to for safety and guidance. Consider what it means to let the Lord “reign over [you]” (1 Samuel 8:7).

Over the coming weeks, you will read about a number of kings called to lead Israel. As you learn about them, consider the following questions:

• How were the Lord’s warnings fulfilled in 1 Samuel 8:10–18?

• How were the children of Israel affected by their choice to have an earthly king?

• How is Jesus Christ different from earthly kings? Consider what worldly influences you may need to remove from your life to let Christ be your King.

See also “Rejoice, the Lord Is King!,” Hymns, no. 66.

Read about how God chose Israel’s kings in 1 Samuel 9–10 and 16 (see especially 9:15–17; 10:1–12; 16:1–13). Look for passages that help you understand what it means to “be called of God, by prophecy” in the Lord’s Church today (Articles of Faith 1:5). You might consider putting yourself in the place of the leader extending the calling (Samuel), the person being called (Saul and David), and the people they are called to serve (the Israelites). What do you learn from their words and actions in these chapters?

Considering how timid Saul seemed in 1 Samuel 10, it’s surprising to read about his “rebellion” and “stubbornness” after he became king (1 Samuel 15:23). Why do you think this happened? In 1 Samuel 13:5–14, what attitudes and behaviors do you see that led to his downfall?

In 1 Samuel 15, you’ll read about a commandment from the Lord that Saul didn’t obey because he thought he had a good reason. To learn from Saul’s poor choices, look at verse 22 and replace the words “sacrifice” and “fat of rams” with things that seem good but are not as important as hearing and obeying the Lord. How have you been blessed as you’ve put the Lord’s will first in your life?

Have you ever made a decision based on “the outward appearance” of something or someone, only to find out that you were wrong? Maybe you ate something that wasn’t as good as it looked. Or maybe you judged someone unfairly.

When Samuel was looking for a new king of Israel, the Lord taught him a better way. Read about it in 1 Samuel 16:6–7, and consider making a list of ways people judge others “on the outward appearance.” You can find some examples in Elder Christophe G. Giraud-Carrier’s message “We Are His Children” (Liahona, Nov. 2023, 114–16). What does it mean to look “on the heart,” as the Lord does? (1 Samuel 16:7). You can find examples of this, too, in Elder Giraud-Carrier’s message. Maybe you can think of other times when the Savior looked past a person’s outward appearance. (See, for instance, Mark 12:41–44; Luke 5:1–11; 19:1–9; John 4:5–30; Moses 6:31–36.) What do you learn from these examples?

How can you follow the Savior’s example in the way you see others—and yourself? How might doing so affect your interactions with others? Consider telling someone about the goodness you see in their heart.

See also Ulisses Soares, “Brothers and Sisters in Christ,” Liahona, Nov. 2023, 70–73.

• Why was it wrong for Saul to perform a burnt offering?

• What was the purpose of David’s anointing?

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• As you read 1 Samuel 8 with your children, help them find reasons Samuel told the Israelites that having a king was a bad idea. Why is it better to have Jesus Christ as our king? Maybe you could make a paper crown together and take turns wearing it and sharing something we can do to show that we want Jesus to be our King. (See also Jeremiah 23:5; Doctrine and Covenants 45:59.)

• The accounts of God choosing Saul and David to be kings can help your children understand how people are called to serve in the Church today by revelation. To teach them these stories, you could write down events from the stories on strips of paper, and your children could put them in the correct order as you read the scripture passages together (see also “Young David” in Old Testament Stories, 110–11). Then you could talk about times when God blessed you with spiritual power to fulfill an assignment or calling (see 1 Samuel 10:9–10).

• This might also be a good time to teach your children the fifth article of faith. Tell them how you received your calling in the Church. How do you know that you were called of God?

• An object lesson could help your children understand the principle in 1 Samuel 16:7. For example, you could show them some food or a book with a wrapper or cover that doesn’t match its true contents. What do 1 Samuel 16:7 and this object lesson suggest about how we should view ourselves and other people? Sing a song that emphasizes this principle, such as “Love One Another” (Children’s Songbook, 136).

  Use object lessons. When your children have something to see and touch related to a gospel principle, they’re more likely to remember it. For instance, as you read 1 Samuel 16:7 with them, you could let them help you find examples of optical illusions to illustrate the point that we should try to see as the Lord does—by looking “on the heart”—rather than judgments based on “the outward appearance.”

• You and your children could share experiences in which you learned why you should “look on the heart,” not just “the outward appearance” (verse 7). You might also take turns telling each other about the good qualities you see in each other’s hearts.

The story of David and Goliath is one of the best-known stories in the scriptures. Of course, we usually focus on David. But this time, as you study 1 Samuel 17, ponder also the words of other people in this chapter (see the list below). What do you learn about them and their motives? What do you learn about David? How is he different?

• Goliath: verses 8–10, 43–44

• Eliab: verse 28

• Saul: verse 33

• David: verses 26, 32, 34–37, 39, 45–47

Your story, though not as well-known as David’s, is sure to include Goliath-size challenges to overcome and opportunities to exercise faith in the Lord. What does David’s example teach you about facing the adversity in your story? You might also read President Camille N. Johnson’s message “Invite Christ to Author Your Story” (Liahona, Nov. 2021, 80–82) with one of your challenges in mind. Look for answers to questions like these: How does the Lord want me to view my challenges? How has He helped me in the past? How can I show that I trust Him to write my story?

You may already know that there are some tragic chapters later in David’s story (see, for example, 2 Samuel 11). If you had the opportunity to give David some advice after his battle with Goliath, what would you say? How might this advice apply to your life?

See also “The Lord Will Deliver Me” (video), Gospel Library.

In addition to personal challenges, we also face large, complex problems that affect the whole world. When forces of evil are “gathered together … to battle” against the forces of good (1 Samuel 17:1), we might wonder how our individual efforts could possibly make a difference. What do you find in David’s story that gives you hope? Sister Andrea M. Spannaus taught that the five stones David carried into his battle with Goliath could represent things we need to win our spiritual battles. Read her message “Faithful to the End” (Liahona, May 2024, 59–61). How can you access these sources of strength in your life?

See also “Let Us All Press On,” Hymns, no. 243.

As you read 1 Samuel 18, consider contrasting Saul and his son Jonathan (who, if not for David, could have assumed he would be the next king). How did Saul and Jonathan react to David’s success? What can you learn from this experience?

What do you find in Jonathan’s attitudes and actions that reminds you of Jesus Christ?

In 1 Samuel 24–26, look for lessons about pride, forgiveness, and self-control. You might also consider reading Elder Mark A. Bragg’s message “Christlike Poise” as part of your study (Liahona, May 2023, 60–63). How did David, Abigail, and others demonstrate—or fail to demonstrate—Christlike poise in these chapters? What opportunities do you have to show Christlike poise?

Sister Kristen Yee’s message “Beauty for Ashes: The Healing Path of Forgiveness” (Liahona, Nov. 2022, 36–39) can help you study 1 Samuel 25. How is Abigail like Jesus Christ?

Even after David defeated Goliath, his problems with the Philistines were not over. As you read 2 Samuel 5:17–25, consider how David’s example can help you in the challenges you face (see also 1 Samuel 23:2, 10–11; 30:8; 2 Samuel 2:1). How are you being blessed by acting on the revelation you receive?

When David offered to build a house, meaning a temple, for the Lord (see 2 Samuel 7:1–3), the Lord responded that David’s son would build it (see verses 12–15; see also 1 Chronicles 17:1–15). The Lord also said that He in turn would build David a “house,” meaning a posterity, and that his throne would last forever (see 2 Samuel 7:11, 16, 25–29; Psalm 89:3–4, 35–37). This promise was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, our Eternal King, who was a descendant of David (see Matthew 1:1; Luke 1:32–33; John 18:33–37).

• What is meant by the title “Lord of Hosts”?

• Why was Uzzah smitten by God for trying to steady the ark?

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• You may want to use “David and Goliath” in Old Testament Stories, 112–16, to help your children become familiar with what happened in 1 Samuel 17:20–54. Then you could let them retell the story using the pictures or line drawings in this outline. Ask them what they think the Lord wants them to learn from this story.

• You and your children could also make a list of some difficult challenges they might face during their life. Then help them find things David said that can help with these challenges (see 1 Samuel 17:26, 32, 34–37, 45–47). Share how Jesus Christ has helped you during challenges.

• Your children could march like they are David going to fight Goliath while singing a song about being courageous, such as “I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162).

• How can you help your children learn from Jonathan and David’s friendship? One way would be to give each child two paper hearts, one to represent David and the other to represent Jonathan. Then read together a few phrases from 1 Samuel 18:1–4 that emphasize the love these two friends felt for each other. Your children could then write or draw on their paper hearts how they can show love to a friend.

• In these chapters, David became the king of Israel. It might be fun for your children to pretend to be a king or queen. What laws would they make? Where would they go for help? Help your children discover that when David needed help, he “inquired,” or prayed, for answers. For example, as you read 2 Samuel 5:19, 23, invite the children to listen for the word “inquired” and to fold their arms when they hear it. Why would David need the Lord’s help in his new role?

• Tell each other about times when you prayed for Heavenly Father’s help. What difference did it make to have Him help you?

• The kings we read about in the Old Testament all had flaws, and their kingdoms all ended. But Jesus Christ is a perfect King and will reign forever. You can help your children discover this by reading together what the prophet Nathan told King David in 2 Samuel 7:16–17. How could David’s kingdom have no end? Help your children find and read scripture passages that teach that Jesus Christ, a descendant of David, is our King, such as Luke 1:32–33; John 18:33–37; and Revelation 19:16. How is Jesus different from earthly kings? How do we honor Jesus Christ as our Eternal King?

Sometimes we look at people who seem strong in their faith, and we assume that they are unaffected by temptation. David’s tragic choices described in 2 Samuel 11 clearly show that this isn’t the case. Consider what lessons you can learn from his experiences. Questions like these might help you study 2 Samuel 11–12:

• What choices did David make that led him down an increasingly sinful path? What righteous choices could he have made instead? (See also the video “To Look Upon,” Gospel Library.)

  Using videos. Videos can help you visualize accounts from the scriptures and consider how they apply to you. Consider how you can use them to enhance teaching and learning. For example, while watching “To Look Upon” (Gospel Library), consider pausing the video at various points to ponder or discuss some of the questions suggested in this activity.

• How is the adversary trying to lead you down sinful paths? What choices could you make now to stay spiritually safe?

• Note David’s reaction to Nathan’s story in 2 Samuel 12:1–6. What does his reaction suggest about how David viewed himself? What has the Lord done to help you see yourself more accurately?

• How would you summarize the events of 2 Samuel 11–12 in a one-sentence warning?

Reading about David’s bad choices could lead you to learn about the dangers of pornography and sexual sin. A good resource for this is For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices, especially the sections titled “What to do in the moment” and “Your body is sacred” (pages 21–28). Maybe you could look in that resource for counsel that would have helped David make better choices. Or you could read “Jesus Christ will help you” (pages 6–9), looking for something that would have helped David return to the Lord.

Consider singing a hymn like “I Need Thee Every Hour” (Hymns, no. 98) and pondering how the Savior has strengthened you when you’ve faced temptation.

See also 2 Nephi 28:20–24; Ulisses Soares, “Seek Christ in Every Thought,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 82–85; “Taking Charge of Technology,” Gospel Library; “Watch Your Step” (video), Gospel Library.

If the Lord said to you, “Ask what I shall give thee” (1 Kings 3:5), what would you ask for? What impresses you about Solomon’s request? Ponder why “an understanding heart” to “discern between good and bad” (verse 9) is a valuable gift. What can you do to seek this gift?

See also Moroni 7:12–19.

In 1 Kings 6–7 you’ll find a detailed description of the sacred house that Solomon built for the Lord. The details may not seem as important to you as they were to the ancient Israelites. But reading these chapters might give you a sense for how important it was to them to have a house of the Lord. Why is it important to you?

You might ponder what the different parts of Solomon’s temple might symbolize. For example, consider what the cherubim, trees, and flowers in 1 Kings 6:35 might represent. (See also Genesis 3:24.)

Chapter 8 records Solomon’s prayer upon completing the temple (see verses 22–61). Consider making a list of the blessings Solomon asked for. What impresses you about these blessings? (Note also the Lord’s promises in 2 Kings 6:11–13; 9:1–9.) If you’ve been to the Lord’s house, think about your experiences worshipping there. How has keeping temple covenants helped you access the Lord’s blessings?

See also Doctrine and Covenants 109; Henry B. Eyring, “I Love to See the Temple,” Liahona, May 2021, 28–31.

What does it mean to “let your heart … be perfect with the Lord”? (1 Kings 8:61). Is that different from our actions being perfect? How so? Read 1 Kings 11:1–11, and notice what the Lord said about Solomon’s heart. You might ponder whether there are influences in your life that could turn your heart away from the Lord and toward “other gods.”

• Who was Nathan?

• What was the molten sea on the back of 12 oxen?

• What does it mean that the Lord would put His name upon the temple?

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• “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?

• Reading about David’s tragic sins might be a good opportunity to discuss the dangers of pornography. The video “What Should I Do When I See Pornography?” (Gospel Library) has helpful guidance. Help your children make a plan about what they will do when they encounter pornography.

• As you and your children learn about the dedication of the temple in 1 Kings 8, you could look at the pictures of temples in this week’s outline. Let your children talk about details they see in the pictures. You might emphasize verses 57–58. What does it mean to “walk in all [the Lord’s] ways”? (1 Kings 8:58). Maybe your children could take a step for each answer they give.

• Tell your children how keeping the covenants you make in the temple helps you walk in the Lord’s ways. You might tell them what these covenants are (see General Handbook, 27.2, Gospel Library). You could also sing a song together like “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95).

• Reading about how Solomon’s wives influenced him could lead to a conversation about examples of “other gods”—or things that people worship or love instead of the Lord. How do we show that we love Him more than anything else in our lives?

How would you describe the mistake King Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, made in 1 Kings 12:1–14? What Christlike attributes could have helped Rehoboam save his kingdom? (see verse 7; Matthew 20:25–28; Mosiah 2:10–21). How can you use these attributes as a leader—whether in a Church calling or as a leader of your own life?

The prophet Elijah asked a widow to give him food and water before feeding herself and her starving son. Why would he do that? Elijah’s request could be seen as a blessing for this small family. They needed the Lord’s blessings, and sacrifice brings blessings—including the blessing of stronger faith.

As you read 1 Kings 17:8–16, imagine you were this widow. What impresses you about her? You could also make a list of choices that require faith in Jesus Christ (for examples, see For the Strength of Youth: A Guide to Making Choices [2022]). What do you learn from this widow about exercising faith?

How are Elisha’s actions in 1 Kings 19:19–21 similar to the widow’s actions?

Think about sacrifices you’ve made to follow the Savior. What does 1 Kings 17:8–16; 19:19–21 teach you about these sacrifices? How does your knowledge of the Savior help you when He asks you to make sacrifices? How has He blessed you?

See also Matthew 4:18–22; 6:25–33; Luke 4:24–26; “Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath” (video), Gospel Library; “When Faith Endures,” Hymns, no. 128.

The Israelites might have felt they had good reasons to worship Baal, who was known as the god of storms and rain. After three years of drought, they desperately needed rain. And worshipping Baal was socially accepted and promoted by the king and queen. As you read 1 Kings 18, think about why someone in our day might be indecisive about following the Lord. In this chapter, what do you think the Lord was trying to teach about Himself? What experiences have helped you commit to following the Savior?

See also D. Todd Christofferson, “Choice and Commitment” (worldwide devotional for young adults, Jan. 12, 2020), Gospel Library.

Sadly, the miracle on Mount Carmel didn’t make Elijah’s mission any easier. In fact, his life was in danger, and he had to hide in a cave in the wilderness. There, struggling with loneliness and discouragement, he had an experience with the Lord that was very different from the experience on Mount Carmel. What does Elijah’s experience in 1 Kings 19:1–18 teach you about how the Lord communicates with you in your times of need?

Ponder times when you feel the Lord has spoken to you. How would you describe the way He communicates with you? Why are the words “still” and “small” good ways to describe the voice of the Spirit? What other words do you find in Helaman 5:30; Doctrine and Covenants 6:22–23; 11:12–14? What do you need to do to receive the Lord’s guidance more often?

See also Psalm 46:10.

• To help your children learn the stories of faith in 1 Kings 17, you could show them pictures or objects to illustrate the stories, such as birds, bread, or a boy. As you tell your children these stories, invite them to find the picture or object that goes with each story. “Elijah the Prophet” (in Old Testament Stories, 121–24) can help you tell these stories. What does each story teach us about showing faith in Jesus Christ?

• Help your children think of ways they can show their faith in Jesus Christ. Sing with them a song about faith, such as “I Have Faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ” (Gospel Library), and share with each other what you learn about faith from the song.

• Perhaps your children could draw a picture of what the Lord asked the widow to give Elijah (see 1 Kings 17:12–13) and what the widow received in return (see 1 Kings 17:15–16). (See also this week’s activity page.) They could also look for pictures of other people who gave up something they wanted for something better. Invite your children to find pictures in the Gospel Art Book or Come, Follow Me. What does the Lord ask us to sacrifice? How does He bless us?

• As you read 1 Kings 18:17–39 together, your children could pick a verse and draw a picture of what it describes. They could use their pictures to tell the story in their own words. (See also “Elijah and the Priests of Baal,” in Old Testament Stories, 125–28.)

• Help your children think of situations when they might need to decide whether or not to follow Jesus Christ. Maybe they could draw pictures of themselves making the right choice. Share with each other why you choose to follow Jesus.

• As you summarize 1 Kings 19:9–12, invite your children to do actions to represent the strong wind, the earthquake, and the fire. Then invite them to sit still as you say together, in a quiet voice, “after the fire a still small voice” (verse 12). (See also “The Lord Speaks to Elijah,” in Old Testament Stories, 129–31.) Tell your children about times when you have experienced the still, small voice of the Holy Ghost.

• Quietly sing a song about the Spirit, such as “The Still Small Voice” (Children’s Songbook, 106–7). What can distract us from recognizing the Spirit? What can help us hear Him?

Miracles show us God’s power. They can help us overcome the difficulties of mortality—like a barren land that needs pure water (see 2 Kings 2:19–22) or a lost ax that needs to be recovered (see 2 Kings 6:4–7). But most importantly, miracles can turn us to the Lord. As you read 2 Kings 2–6, consider listing the miracles you find, and ponder the spiritual lessons you learn from each one.

You might also compare the miracles Elisha performed with miracles that Jesus Christ performed (see 2 Kings 4:8–37 and Luke 7:11–16; 2 Kings 4:42–44 and John 6:1–13; 2 Kings 5:1–15 and Luke 17:11–19). What do these miracles teach you about the Savior and His prophets?

See also 2 Nephi 26:12–13; 27:23; Moroni 7:35–37; the section “Seek and expect miracles” in Russell M. Nelson, “The Power of Spiritual Momentum,” Liahona, May 2022, 99–100.

The Lord inspired Elisha to prophesy of things to come—usually, things that seemed unlikely to occur. As you read 2 Kings 4:8–17; 7:1–16, think about how you respond to the word of the Lord through His prophets today. What teachings, prophecies, or promises have you heard from living prophets? What are you doing to act in faith on their words?

See also 3 Nephi 29:6; Doctrine and Covenants 1:37–38; “Teachings of Presidents” collection, Gospel Library.

As you read 2 Kings 5, consider comparing Naaman’s leprosy with a spiritual challenge you are facing.

Is there someone like the “little maid” in your life, encouraging you to seek guidance about your challenge from the Lord’s prophets? (see verses 2–3, 13).

What is the Lord inviting you to do that might seem too simple—like “wash, and be clean”? (verse 13). What might be keeping you from accepting His simple invitations?

How can you show humility as Naaman did?

Note how Naaman’s experience affected his faith in the God of Israel (see verse 15). What can you learn from this?

See also Luke 4:27; 1 Peter 5:5–7; Alma 37:3–7; Ether 12:27; L. Whitney Clayton, “Whatsoever He Saith unto You, Do It,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 97–99; “Naaman and Elisha” (video), Gospel Library.

As you try to follow Christ, have you ever felt like Elisha’s young servant—outnumbered and fearful? Imagine you were in his place as you read 2 Kings 6:8–23. How does this story change the way you think and feel about your trials, your responsibilities, or your efforts to live the gospel?

As you ponder, consider President Henry B. Eyring’s words: “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. The Lord will bear you up and will at times do it by calling others to stand with you” (“O Ye That Embark,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 58).

Consider making a list of “they that be with [you]” (verse 16)—people God has placed in your life to support you. You might ask Him to help you identify them by opening your spiritual eyes. He has probably also placed you in others’ lives to help them. How can you draw strength and support from each other?

When have you felt the support that the Lord describes in Doctrine and Covenants 84:88?

You might also study Sister Michelle D. Craig’s message “Eyes to See” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 15–17). Ask yourself, “What does God want me to see?”

Referring to the story in 2 Kings 6:8–23, Elder Ronald A. Rasband said: “We may or may not have chariots of fire sent to dispel our fears and conquer our demons, but the lesson is clear. The Lord is with us, mindful of us and blessing us in ways only He can do. Prayer can call down the strength and the revelation that we need to center our thoughts on Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice. The Lord knew that at times we would feel fear. I have been there and so have you. … In this Church we may be few in number by the way the world counts influence, but when we open our spiritual eyes, ‘they that be with us are more than they that be with them’ [2 Kings 6:16]” (“Be Not Troubled,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 18, 19). How would you use these words to help someone who feels anxious or afraid?

See also “Dearest Children, God Is Near You,” Hymns, no. 96.

• After helping your children understand what a miracle is, invite them to list as many examples of miracles as they can. Pictures in the Gospel Art Book or Come, Follow Me can help. Then they could look for miracles in 2 Kings 4:1–7, 14–17, 32–35, 38–44. What do these miracles teach about Heavenly Father?

• You and your children could talk about how God has shown His love through miracles. You could also sing together a song such as “God’s Gracious Love” (Gospel Library).

• Help your children learn the story in 2 Kings 5:1–3, 9–14. Consider using “Elisha Heals Naaman” (in Old Testament Stories, 134–37) or the picture of Naaman in this week’s outline. Why didn’t Naaman want to wash in the Jordan River, even though Elisha said that this would heal his disease? How was Naaman blessed when he followed Elisha’s instructions? You might share with each other experiences when you obeyed the Lord, even when you weren’t sure you wanted to.

• You might also emphasize 2 Kings 5:13, where Naaman’s servants helped him decide to obey the prophet Elisha. Your children could then talk about ways they can help their friends or family members listen to and obey the prophet.

• You and your children could imagine you are surrounded by an army with swords, horses, and chariots. How would you feel? What would you do? Your children could then close their eyes while you read 2 Kings 6:16–17 to them. (See also “Elisha and the Lord’s Army,” in Old Testament Stories, 138–39, or the picture at the end of this outline.) When you get to the words “open his eyes” (verse 17), ask the children to open their eyes. Talk about what the servant saw. Share with your children ways you have felt that the Lord was with you during your challenges, even when it seemed like you were alone.

Most of us have experiences that challenge our faith. For Hezekiah and his people, one of those challenges came when the Assyrian army approached Jerusalem. As you read 2 Kings 18–19, imagine that you lived in Jerusalem during this time. How might you have felt, for example, hearing the Assyrians’ taunts in 2 Kings 18:28–37; 19:10–13? What would you have done? Compare the Assyrians’ reasons for the Israelites not to trust the Lord with the reasons Satan gives for us to doubt our faith today. You could also contrast the Assyrians’ reasons with your reasons why you do trust the Lord.

What do you learn from Hezekiah’s actions in this situation? (see 2 Kings 19:1–7, 14–19). How did the Lord respond? (see 2 Kings 19:35–37). Why do you think Hezekiah remained faithful? (see 2 Kings 18:5–7). Ponder how the Lord has sustained you in challenging times. What do you feel inspired to do to increase your trust in Him?

President Jeffrey R. Holland’s message “Fear Not: Believe Only!” (Liahona, May 2022, 34–36) has helpful counsel for times of fear or doubt. A hymn like “Let Us All Press On” (Hymns, no. 243) could also have encouraging messages. What do you find in these resources that helps you?

See also 2 Chronicles 31–32; 3 Nephi 3–4; Jörg Klebingat, “Valiant Discipleship in the Latter Days,” Liahona, May 2022, 107–10.

Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, had good reason to believe that his army would conquer Jerusalem (see 2 Kings 17; 18:33–34; 19:11–13). But the Lord had a message regarding Sennacherib, given through the prophet Isaiah. It’s recorded in 2 Kings 19:20–34. What truths do you find in the Lord’s message that help you have faith in Him and His plan?

Have you ever felt that you were lacking something spiritually? Maybe you felt that your relationship with God could be stronger. What helped you turn back to Him? Ponder these questions as you read 2 Kings 21–23, which describes how the Kingdom of Judah fell away from the Lord under King Manasseh (see 2 Kings 21) and how King Josiah helped the people turn back to Him (see 2 Kings 22–23). How and why did Josiah and his people change? (see 2 Kings 22:8–11; 23:1–6, 21, 24).

President Spencer W. Kimball called the story of King Josiah “one of the finest stories in all of the scriptures” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 62). Read President Kimball’s words about King Josiah (pages 62–64). Perhaps you can think of an experience when a passage of scripture “work[ed] mightily” in you. What might you do to receive more experiences like that?

See also Alma 31:5; “Josiah and the Book of the Law” (video), Gospel Library.

What impresses you about the covenant Josiah made in 2 Kings 23:3? As you continue reading chapter 23, notice what Josiah did to show his commitment to the Lord (see also the picture at the end of this outline). How can you show your commitment to Him?

• In 2 Kings 18:3, 5–6, help your children discover what made Hezekiah a good king. Then as you read together 2 Kings 19:14–19, they could discover how he showed that he trusted the Lord. You could look at a picture of Jesus and talk about why we can trust Him. How can we show that we trust the Lord?

• In 2 Kings 22:1, help your children discover how old Josiah was when he became king. What do we learn about Josiah in verse 2? Consider an activity that could illustrate following the Lord and not turning “aside to the right hand or to the left.”

• The workers described in 2 Kings 22:3–7 were trusted with the money to rebuild the temple “because they dealt faithfully” (verse 7). After reading these verses, you and your children could talk about things you have been trusted with. How can we be trustworthy like the workers in these verses?

• To introduce the story of King Josiah in 2 Kings 22–23, you could hide a copy of the scriptures somewhere in the room. Invite your children to find it. Then you could share what happened when one of Josiah’s priests found the scriptures in the temple (see 2 Kings 22:8–11; see also “King Josiah” in Old Testament Stories, 148–49). What might happen to us if we didn’t have the scriptures? Share with each other why you are glad we have the scriptures today.

• After reading 2 Kings 23:2–3, you and your children could talk about scriptures that have inspired you to “walk after the Lord” (verse 3). You could also sing a song about the scriptures, such as “Search, Ponder, and Pray” (Children’s Songbook, 109).

• When Josiah and his people learned the commandments of God, they made a covenant to live them. Read about this with your children in 2 Kings 23:1–3, and help them find words or phrases that show how the people felt about the Lord’s commandments. Maybe your children could stand and talk about what it might mean to “[stand] to the covenant.” Then they could walk in place and talk about what it might mean to “walk after the Lord.” Next, they could place their hands on their hearts and suggest ways we can keep our covenants “with all [our] heart.”

When Asa was the king of Judah, he faced many challenges—just like we all do today. As you read about the trials he faced, notice where he put his trust and how that changed over time.

Why do we sometimes stop trusting the Lord? What else do you learn from Asa’s life?

See also Elder D. Todd Christofferson, “Our Relationship with God,” Liahona, May 2022, 78–80.

The prophet Micaiah must have felt a lot of pressure to predict success for the kings Jehoshaphat and Ahab in their war against Syria. Look for evidence of that pressure in 2 Chronicles 18:1–12. What evidence do you find of Micaiah’s courage and integrity in verses 13–27? (Note that in verse 14, Micaiah gives a sarcastic response; his real answer is in verse 16.) How are Micaiah’s words fulfilled in verses 28–34?

What are some situations in which you might face pressure like Micaiah faced? What gives you courage to stand up for the Lord and His teachings?

As you read 2 Chronicles 20:1–12, look for what King Jehoshaphat did when multiple nations came to attack Judah. How could you apply his actions in the challenging circumstances you face?

The Lord’s response to Jehoshaphat’s prayer is found in verses 14–17. What phrases do you find there that could comfort you or someone you know during difficult times?

The following day, the people of Jerusalem went out to meet the opposing army. As you read 2 Chronicles 20:20, look for the message Jehoshaphat gave to the people of Jerusalem. How were his words fulfilled? (see verses 22–23). How has God blessed you for believing in Him and following His prophets?

President Russell M. Nelson said: “My experience is that once you stop putting question marks behind the prophet’s statements and put exclamation points instead, and do it, the blessings just pour. I never ask myself, ‘When does the prophet speak as a prophet and when does he not?’ My interest has been, ‘How can I be more like him?’” (in Lane Johnson, “Russell M. Nelson: A Study in Obedience,” Ensign, Aug. 1982, 24).

See also Doctrine and Covenants 21:4–6; “A Secure Anchor” (video), Gospel Library; “Make inspired choices,” For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices (2022), 4–5.

As with many other kings of Judah, Uzziah’s reign began with great accomplishments but ended with tragedy. Look for this pattern in 2 Chronicles 26. What would you say was the turning point in Uzziah’s life?

As you read verses 16–23, keep in mind that at this time, only priests were allowed to burn incense in the temple. Why do you think King Uzziah disobeyed God? What do you learn from this tragic experience?

See also “Be Thou Humble,” Hymns, no. 130.

In 2 Chronicles 30, Hezekiah was the king of Judah. He invited the rival Kingdom of Israel to gather in Jerusalem to celebrate Passover—something the Israelites hadn’t been able to do for many years (see verses 1–12). What impresses you about the invitation and how it was received—both by the Israelite guests and by their hosts in Judah?

Because it had been so long, some visitors to Jerusalem were not familiar with the details of how to participate in Passover. As you read 2 Chronicles 30:18–27, what do you learn from Hezekiah’s response and the results of his response?

See also Russell M. Nelson, “Peacemakers Needed,” Liahona, May 2023, 98–101.

• To introduce the idea of trusting the Lord, you might show your children something you trust to keep you dry when it rains, like an umbrella or jacket. Let them talk about why we can trust these things. Then help them compare that to our trust in the Lord. Why do we trust Him to keep us safe spiritually?

• You could help your children discover how King Asa and King Jehoshaphat responded to challenges by trusting in the Lord (see 2 Chronicles 14:11; 20:3–5, 12). Share with each other ways you can show the Lord that you trust Him.

• This week’s activity page can help your children understand the story of Jehoshaphat’s prayer and the Lord’s answer. You and your children could share times when God heard and answered your prayers. Consider including times when the answers came in ways or at times that you didn’t expect. A song about prayer, such as “I Pray in Faith” (Children’s Songbook, 14), could help build your children’s faith.

• To learn about the dangers of pride, your children could build a tower with blocks or small cups. As they place each block or cup on the tower, help them identify one of Uzziah’s accomplishments from 2 Chronicles 26:3–15. After they finish the tower, discuss with your children how Uzziah could keep it tall and strong. What could make it fall? Then, as you read verse 16, you could talk about what it means to have our hearts “lifted up to [our] destruction.” Share with your children what happened to Uzziah in verses 16–23. Let them knock down their tower. Talk about what we can do to stay humble.

• The picture above shows when Hezekiah invited Judah’s neighbors from the Kingdom of Israel to celebrate Passover with them. You could look at this image with your children and read 2 Chronicles 30:18–19, which explains that some of the guests had not washed themselves according to the law of Moses. What did Hezekiah do? How would this have made the guests feel? Help your children think of how they can be like Hezekiah in the way they treat others.

After Persia conquered Babylonia, the Lord inspired the Persian king, Cyrus, to send a group of Jews to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. As you read Ezra 1, note what Cyrus did to support the Jews in this important work. How do you see the Lord working through men and women around you, including people who are not members of His Church? What does this suggest to you about the Lord and His work?

See also Isaiah 44:24–28.

When the Babylonians invaded Jerusalem, they plundered the temple and burned it to the ground (see 2 Kings 25:1–10; 2 Chronicles 36:17–19). How do you think you might have felt if you had been one of the Jews who witnessed this? (see Psalm 137). Notice how the Jews felt, decades later, when they were allowed to return and rebuild the temple (see Ezra 3:8–13; 6:16–22). That might prompt you to ponder your own feelings about the Lord and His house. Why is the building of a temple a reason to celebrate?

The Lord’s work rarely goes unopposed. This was true of the efforts led by Zerubbabel and Nehemiah. Here’s a simple approach that can help you learn from these stories and consider how you can do the Lord’s work despite opposition:

God’s work for Zerubbabel (Ezra 4:3):

God’s work for Nehemiah (Nehemiah 2:17–18):

God’s work for me:

Opposition Zerubbabel faced (Ezra 4:4–24):

Opposition Nehemiah faced (Nehemiah 2:19; 4:1–3, 7–8; 6:1–13):

Opposition I face:

How Zerubbabel responded (Ezra 5:1–2):

How Nehemiah responded (Nehemiah 2:20; 4:6, 9; 6:3–15):

How I can respond:

For help comparing Nehemiah’s experience to your life, you might study President Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s message “We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2009, 59–62), especially the last two sections. As you think about the work God has given you, you might study the “Young Women Theme” or the “Aaronic Priesthood Quorum Theme” (Gospel Library). Or you could look in a hymn like “As Sisters in Zion” (Hymns, no. 309) or “Ye Elders of Israel” (Hymns, no. 319).

What do you think it means to have “a mind to work” in the service of the Savior? (Nehemiah 4:6). What might it mean to have “the good hand of … God upon [you]” as you do His work? (Nehemiah 2:8; see also Nehemiah 2:18; Ezra 7:6, 9, 27–28). How have you seen His hand in your efforts to serve Him?

For generations in captivity, the Jews had limited access to “the book of the law of Moses” (Nehemiah 8:1). In Nehemiah 8, Ezra read the law to the people. What do you find in this chapter that shows how Ezra and his people felt about God and His word? (see especially verses 1–12). What in your life shows how you feel about God and His word?

See also Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Ezra Taft Benson (2014), 115–24.

• To teach your children about the joy the Jews felt when their temple was rebuilt, you could show them a picture like the one below. Talk about why these people might be happy to be at the house of the Lord. You could also tell your children why the temple is a place of joy for you. How has the temple helped you feel closer to Heavenly Father and the Savior?

• As you read Ezra 3:10–13 with your children, help them find words that show how the Jews felt when the temple was being rebuilt. When you get to the end of verse 13, maybe you could shout for joy together. Help your children think of reasons to be joyful that the Lord has given us temples. How can we show that joy?

• Consider singing a song about the temple with your children, such as the second verse of “Welcome Home” (Gospel Library). After each line, you could pause to ask a child to share something he or she loves about the temple. You might also look at pictures of temples while you sing.

• Share with your children the story of Nehemiah (see Nehemiah 2:17–20; 6:1–9; or “Nehemiah” in Old Testament Stories, 173–74). As you read Nehemiah 2:20, you and your children could “arise” and pretend to help build the walls of Jerusalem. Or your children might enjoy building a wall with blocks or other objects. As they do, you could help them think of important things Heavenly Father wants us to do.

• As you read Nehemiah 6:9, invite your children to raise their hands when they hear you say “strengthen my hands.” Tell the children about a time when you felt God strengthen your hands to do His work.

• Read aloud some phrases from Nehemiah 8:2–3, 5–6, 8–9, 12 that describe what the people did when they heard Ezra read the scriptures. As you read, your children could act out these phrases. Then you could share with each other how you feel when you read or hear the scriptures.

• As you read together Nehemiah 8:8, you could ask your children what helps them understand the scriptures. Show them how to use scripture study aids like the Guide to the Scriptures and Topics and Questions (Gospel Library). Invite your children to share something they have learned about the Savior from the scriptures.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught that each of us “stands at a unique place and has an important task that only [we] can perform. … The Lord gave you your responsibilities for a reason. There may be people and hearts only you can reach and touch. Perhaps no one else could do it in quite the same way” (“Lift Where You Stand,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 56).

As you read the story of Esther, ponder how this statement applies to her. Look for ways the Lord made it possible for her to save the Jews (see, for example, Esther 2:21–23; 3:10–14; 4:14–16). Then ponder how He has given you opportunities to bless others. What are some circumstances or relationships that He has guided you to “for such a time as this”? (Esther 4:14). If you have a patriarchal blessing, consider reading it to learn more about the work the Lord has for you to do. What can you do to accomplish this work?

See also “For Such a Time as This” (video), ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

In the book of Esther, we learn from the faithfulness of Esther and Mordecai, but we also learn from the pride and anger of Haman. As you read Esther 3; 5:9–14, note Haman’s feelings, words, and actions. What do they reveal about him and his motivations? What consequences did he face? (see Esther 7). Reading about Haman may prompt you to evaluate what motivates your feelings and actions. Are you inspired to make any changes? How can you turn to Heavenly Father for help?

See also Proverbs 16:32; Alma 5:28.

Notice why Esther and the rest of the Jews decided to fast (see Esther 3:13; 4:1–3, 10–17). How did fasting bless them? (see Esther 5:2–3; 8:11–12). Why does the Lord ask us to fast? (see Topics and Questions, “Fasting and Fast Offerings,” Gospel Library). Consider how you can make fasting a greater blessing in your life.

See also Isaiah 58:6–12; “Fasting: Young Single Adult Ward, Amanda” (video), ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

When Mordecai and Esther stood up for their beliefs and their people, they put their lives at risk. Our choices might have less severe consequences, but doing the right thing can still require courage. What do you learn from Esther 3:1–4; 4:10–17 about having courage to do the right thing? Note the different consequences Mordecai and Esther experienced after showing courage (see Esther 3:5–11; 5:1–4). What did Esther and Mordecai need to know about God to make the choices they made?

Think of situations where you need courage to stand up for what’s right. What do you learn from Esther and Mordecai that can help you find courage in the Lord?

Esther’s courage led to “a day of gladness” (see Esther 9:17–19). How has Christlike courage given you “a day of gladness”?

See also “Courage,” “Dare to Stand Alone” (videos), Gospel Library; “True to the Faith,” Hymns, no. 254.

• You might feel inspired to use Esther 2:7 to teach your children about helping family members in need, as Mordecai did for Esther. You could read the verse together or summarize it in your own words. Then you and your children could think of family members who might need your help. Make a plan to help them.

• The examples of Esther and Mordecai can help your children understand that bravery means doing what is right even when you are afraid. Consider writing the phrases Mordecai was brave when he … and Esther was brave when she … . As you learn the story of Esther together, your children could suggest ways to finish the sentences. You could read Esther 3:1–11; 4:10–17 or “Queen Esther” (in Old Testament Stories, 166–70) or look at the pictures in this outline. Then write I will be brave by … , and invite your children to list things Heavenly Father wants them to do that require courage. A song about courage, such as “Dare to Do Right” (Children’s Songbook, 158), could help.

• You could also learn about times when Jesus Christ was brave—for example, when He suffered for our sins in Gethsemane and on the cross (see Matthew 26:36–39; 27:33–35). Ask your children to share a time when they were brave, and share your own experiences as well.

• Reading Esther 4:1–3, 10–17 could help you teach your children about fasting. Why did Esther and the Jews fast? Tell your children why you fast. You could also ask them how they would explain fasting to a friend who has never done it before. How could we help our friends understand the blessings that come from fasting?

• Encourage your children to think of something they might need the Lord’s help with. Suggest they make that part of their fast during the next fast Sunday.

• Help your children understand that when Esther was afraid, Mordecai encouraged her by explaining that the Lord had helped her become the queen “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). What did Mordecai mean by this? Talk with each other about how Esther was an instrument for the Lord. How can we be instruments for the Lord?

• How could you help your children understand what an instrument is? Maybe you could invite someone to play a song on a musical instrument or show a picture of someone using a tool. You could then talk about what it means to be an instrument in God’s hands.

The opening chapters of Job emphasize, in a poetic way, Satan’s role as our adversary or accuser; they don’t describe an actual interaction between God and Satan. As you read what Satan said about Job (see Job 1:9–11; 2:4–5), you might ask yourself, “Why do I remain faithful to God?” Why would it be dangerous to obey the Lord solely for the reason Satan suggested?

What impresses you about Job’s responses to his trials? (see Job 1:20–22; 2:9–10).

Job’s friends suggested that God was punishing him (see Job 4–5; 8; 11). What problems do you see with this idea? Read Job’s response in chapters 12–13. What did Job know about God that enabled him to keep trusting? What do you know about God that helps you face challenges?

Sometimes we learn the most important truths during our most difficult times. Ponder the trials Job described in Job 19:1–22 and the truths he proclaimed in verses 23–27. How do you know that your Redeemer lives? What difference does this knowledge make in your life?

Consider singing or listening to a hymn about Jesus Christ, such as “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” (Hymns, no. 136). What words from this hymn express your feelings about Him?

See also Doctrine and Covenants 121:1–12; 122.

In Job 21–24, you’ll read a debate between Job and his friends. At the heart of this debate was a question many people have asked: Why do righteous people sometimes suffer?

Although we don’t have all the answers, in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, we have some truths that can help us make sense of adversity and suffering. Below are latter-day scriptures that contain some of these truths. What do these scriptures teach you about Heavenly Father and His plan?

• 2 Nephi 2:11–13

• Mosiah 23:21–23; 24:10–16

• Ether 12:27

• Doctrine and Covenants 58:3–5

• Abraham 3:22–26

You could also read President Spencer W. Kimball’s teachings about adversity in “Tragedy or Destiny?” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2011]), 11–21).

Based on what you have studied, how might you answer a question like “Why does God allow righteous people to suffer?”

Frustrated with his friends’ accusations (see Job 16:1–5; 19:1–3), Job repeatedly asked God why he had to suffer so much (see Job 19:6–7; 23:1–9; 31). The Lord did not give a clear reason in the book of Job. But He did teach an important message in chapters 38–40. How would you summarize that message? For example, what do you learn from the Lord’s questions in Job 38:1–7, 18–24?

You’ll notice that the Lord spoke to Job about some of His creations and other mighty works (see Job 38–39). You might look at some of those creations (or pictures of them). How do these things help you think differently about God? about your trials? How did they change Job’s perspective? (see Job 42:1–6; see also Moses 1:8–10).

Here are two general conference messages that can help change our perspective: Tamara W. Runia, “Seeing God’s Family through the Overview Lens” (Liahona, Nov. 2023, 62–69); Russell M. Nelson, “Think Celestial!” (Liahona, Nov. 2023, 117–20). In either message, look for something that you’ll want to remember the next time your trials seem overwhelming. How will you remind yourself of what you learned?

• Encourage your children to tell you what they know about Job. If they need help, you could point them to Job 1:1, 13–22; 2:7–10 or to “Job” (in Old Testament Stories, 145–47). How did Job respond to challenges? (see Job 1:21; 2:10).

• Job was faithful in his challenges because of what he knew about the Lord. Maybe you and your children could look at pictures of Jesus Christ interacting with others (such as the one below or pictures in the Gospel Art Book). Talk about what you know about Him and what He is like. Here are some verses that show what Job knew about the Lord: Job 12:10, 13, 16; 19:25–27. Why is it valuable to know these things about Him?

• Job asked an important question in Job 14:14. Maybe you and your children could take turns sharing how you would answer Job. You could look for ideas in Alma 11:42–44, in the video “In a Coming Day” (Gospel Library), or in a song about the Resurrection, such as “Did Jesus Really Live Again?” (Children’s Songbook, 64).

• When Job was sad, his friends said that God was punishing him because he had sinned (see Job 22:5). If we were Job’s friends, how would we try to help him? How can our words help others when they are sad? (see Job 16:5). Consider showing one or more of the pictures in this outline as you discuss these questions.

• Consider asking your children to list some qualities of a good friend and to name a friend who has these qualities. Then you could look at a picture of Jesus Christ. In what ways is Jesus a good friend to each of us? You might think of someone who’s going through a hard time. Plan how you will be a Christlike friend to them.

• After reading Job 19:23–27, you and your children could talk about how you know that our Redeemer lives. You might work together to put your testimony (or drawings of the Savior) in a book (see verse 23).

• You could also sing a song that testifies of the Savior, such as “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” (Hymns, no. 136). Share phrases from the hymn that strengthen your faith in Him. Why is it important to know that Jesus Christ lives?

As you read the Psalms, you might notice how often the writers express fear, sorrow, or anxiety. Such feelings are normal, even for people of faith. But what makes the Psalms inspiring is that they also offer inspiring solutions, including complete trust in the Lord. As you read Psalms 1; 23; 26–28; 46, write down:

• Invitations to trust the Lord.

• Words that describe Him.

• Words that describe the peace, strength, and other blessings He provides.

• Words that describe people who trust Him.

Also watch for the vivid imagery and symbols that the Psalms use to teach about the Savior. For example, in Psalm 23, what do phrases like “lie down in green pastures” or “still waters” (verse 2) bring to mind? What could the comforting “rod” and “staff” (verse 4) symbolize? What might it mean for our “cup” (verse 5) to run over?

Several of the psalms point to the mortal life of Jesus Christ. Christians in New Testament times saw these connections too. Consider reading the following scripture references. Look for connections between the words in these psalms and the life of the Savior:

• Psalm 2:1–3 and Acts 4:24–28

• Psalm 2:7 and Acts 13:30–33

• Psalm 22:1 and Matthew 27:45–46

• Psalm 22:7–8 and Matthew 27:39–43

• Psalm 22:16 and Luke 23:32–33

• Psalm 22:18 and Matthew 27:35

• Psalm 31:5 and Luke 23:46

What do you learn from studying these connections? What scriptural prophecies and promises haven’t been fulfilled yet? What do you find in these promises that gives you hope for the future?

Reading Psalms 8; 19; 33 might inspire you to consider the Lord’s many wonderful creations. Pay attention to your feelings as you do. You might also want to sing or ponder the words of a song related to these psalms, such as “How Great Thou Art” (Hymns, 86). How do the Lord’s creations “declare the glory of God” to you? (Psalm 19:1).

Here are some other hymns inspired by the Psalms:

• Psalm 23: “The Lord Is My Shepherd” (Hymns, no. 108)

• Psalms 23:6; 150: “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” (Hymns, no. 72)

• Psalm 26:8: “We Love Thy House, O God” (Hymns, no. 247)

• Psalm 27:1: “The Lord Is My Light” (Hymns, no. 89)

• Psalms 33:1–6; 95:1–6: “For the Beauty of the Earth” (Hymns, no. 92)

• Psalm 37:3–9: “Be Still, My Soul” (Hymns, no. 124)

• Psalm 148: “All Creatures of Our God and King” (Hymns, no. 62)

In the Psalms, words like testimony, statutes, commandment, and judgments can refer to the word of the Lord. Keep that in mind as you read Psalm 19:7–11. What do these verses suggest to you about the word of the Lord? What does Psalm 29 teach you about His voice? In your experience, how has the word or voice of the Lord matched these descriptions?

Because the temple at Jerusalem was built on a hill, the phrase “hill of the Lord” (Psalm 24:3) could refer to the temple or to the presence of God. What does this add to your understanding of Psalm 24? What does it mean to you to have “clean hands, and a pure heart”? (verse 4). As you read Psalms 26–27, what else do you learn about the house of the Lord?

At times, we might be discouraged to hear that we need to be pure to enter the presence of God. After all, we all struggle, and none of us are perfect. What hope do you find in Elder David A. Bednar’s message “Clean Hands and a Pure Heart”? (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2007, 80–83). How could you use his message to help someone who feels overwhelmed with wanting to be perfect? Consider how you can receive the Savior’s help in your efforts to have “clean hands, and a pure heart.”

See also Bradley R. Wilcox, “Worthiness Is Not Flawlessness,” Liahona, Nov. 2021, 61–67.

• Consider writing The Lord is … Invite your children to look for ways to complete that sentence using scriptures like these: Psalms 23:1; 27:1; 28:1; 28:7; 32:7; 46:1. What do these verses teach us about how the Lord can help us?

• You could discuss with your children what a lamb needs to be safe and healthy. Then, as you read together Psalm 23, help your children compare what a shepherd does for a lamb with what Jesus does for us. What do we need to be spiritually safe and healthy? Sing together a song that could give them ideas, such as “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75).

• As you read Psalm 24:3 together, your children could look for words that remind them of the temple. They could also look at a picture of a temple. Then you could read together verse 4 to learn who can enter the temple. You could talk about how hands get dirty and how we clean them. How do we get spiritually dirty? How does the Savior help clean us spiritually?

• If you have young children, you could invite them to pretend to cry while you read from Psalm 30:5, “Weeping may endure for a night.” Then ask them to express joy as you read, “But joy cometh in the morning.” Repeat this phrase a few times.

• Show a picture of the Savior, and tell your children what He has done for you that brings you joy. You could also give each child a turn to hold the picture and share what Jesus has done that brings them joy.

• Help your children memorize the first line from Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” What could it mean to “be still”? Maybe you could spend some time practicing being still. You could also share with each other experiences when being “still” strengthened your relationship with God. Help your children think of times during the day when they can “be still” to feel close to Heavenly Father.

Psalm 49 has a message for “both low and high, rich and poor” (verse 2). What would you say this message is? What do you feel Psalm 62:5–12 adds to that message?

Reading these psalms might inspire you to ponder the ways we are tempted to trust something other than God for redemption (see Psalm 49:6–7). How is your life influenced by your testimony that “God will redeem [your] soul from the power of the grave”? (Psalm 49:15).

King David wrote Psalm 51 after he recognized his desperate need for forgiveness—something we all need. Which verses describe feelings you’ve had? What do you find in this psalm that gives you hope for forgiveness?

You might also search Psalm 51 for clues about what it means to repent. Make a list of what you find. See if you can add to your list by searching President Russell M. Nelson’s message “We Can Do Better and Be Better” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 67–69).

How would you describe what it feels like to receive forgiveness through Christ? If you need help describing your feelings, you could look in Psalms 51:1–2, 7–12; 85:2–9. Some people like to draw or find pictures to express their feelings; you might try that. You could also sing or listen to a hymn about the Savior, such as “I Stand All Amazed” (Hymns, no. 193).

To repent, we need faith not only that Jesus Christ can cleanse us but also that He will. What do you find in Psalm 86:5, 13, 15 that helps you know the Savior is both able and willing to forgive?

See also Alma 36; Peter F. Meurs, “He Could Heal Me!,” Liahona, May 2023, 39–41.

Ponder how you gained your testimony of Jesus Christ and His atoning power. Then, as you study Psalms 51:13–15; 66:5–20; 71:15–24, think about how you can invite others to “come and see the works of God” (Psalm 66:5). If you were to “declare what [the Lord] hath done for [your] soul” (Psalm 66:16), what would you declare?

What does it mean to you to “talk of [His] righteousness all the day long”? (Psalm 71:24).

See also Alma 26.

Several psalms describe what it’s like to feel distant from God and desperately need His help (see Psalms 63:1, 8; 69:1–8, 18–21; 77:1–9). In Psalms 63; 69; 77–78, what do you find that gave the psalmists reassurance?

When you are distressed, how does it help you to “remember the works of the Lord” and His “wonders of old”? (Psalm 77:11). Some of those wonders are described in Psalm 78. As you read about them, ponder what helps you “set [your] hope in God” (verse 7).

• To help your children discover truths about repentance in Psalm 51, you could draw a large heart. Then you could help your children write inside the heart bad things Satan tempts us to do. How do we get these things out of our hearts? Ask your children to find the word “heart” in Psalm 51:10, 17. Talk about what these verses teach about repentance. Let your children erase the words inside the heart and write new words that describe the ways Jesus can change us when we repent.

• You might want to help your children learn what it means to have “a broken and a contrite heart” (Psalm 51:17). They could take turns breaking open something that has a hard shell, such as an egg or a nut. You could help them compare the shell to things that keep us from feeling Heavenly Father’s love. How can we open our heart to Him?

• You could also look at a picture of the Savior together and ask your children what words they would use to describe Him. Invite them to find words that describe Him in Psalm 86:5, 13, 15. Why is it important to know these things about Him?

• Your children might enjoy drawing pictures of the symbols in Psalm 61:2–3. How is Jesus Christ like a high “rock” (verse 2), “a shelter,” and “a strong tower”? (verse 3).

• Ask your children to share some of their favorite scripture stories (pictures from the Gospel Art Book might help). What do these stories teach us about the Lord? You could read together Psalm 66:16 and take turns answering the question “What has the Lord done for my soul”?

• As you read Psalms 77:11; 78:6–7 together, you could share with each other how you try to “remember the works of the Lord” (Psalm 77:11), including His works in your life. How does the sacrament help us “always remember”? (Moroni 4:3; 5:2).

• After reading Psalm 71:8 with your children, invite them to draw a large mouth. Ask them to help you “fill” the mouth with pictures or words representing things we can tell others about Jesus Christ.

• You could pass around a picture of Jesus Christ. The person holding the picture could say one thing they know about Him. How can we help other people know these things?

• Many of the psalms are like prayers to God. As you read Psalms with your children, you might show them things we can use to communicate with people who are far away, such as a phone or a letter. Then read Psalm 86:7. How do we “call upon” Heavenly Father? How does He answer us?

• You could sing together a song about prayer, such as “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13; see also Susan H. Porter, “Pray, He Is There,” Liahona, May 2024, 77–79). Tell each other about times when God answered your prayers.

Note how Psalm 102:1–11 describes feelings of anxiety and isolation that often come during challenges. Maybe you or others you know have experienced such feelings. As you read Psalms 102:12–28; 103; 116, look for phrases that give you confidence to “call upon the name of the Lord” in your trials (Psalm 116:13). You might want to mark, memorize, or share with others phrases that give you hope in Him.

See also Isaiah 25:8; Hebrews 2:17–18; Alma 7:11–13; Camille N. Johnson, “Christ Is Relief,” Liahona, May 2023, 81–83; “Where Can I Turn for Peace?” (Hymns, no. 129).

The Psalms contain passages that point toward the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Here are a few examples:

• Psalm 110:1–4 (see Matthew 22:41–45; Hebrews 5:4–10; 6:20)

• Psalm 118:22 (see Matthew 21:42; Acts 4:10–11; 1 Peter 2:7)

• Psalm 118:25–26 (see Matthew 21:9)

What do these verses teach you about Jesus Christ? Why is it important to know this about Him?

Psalm 119 contains many phrases that compare our lives to a journey back to Heavenly Father. As you read, look for words like “walk,” “path,” “way,” “feet,” and “wander.” Ponder your own life’s journey—where you have been, where you are now, and where you are heading. What do you learn from this psalm about your journey back home? What have you learned by watching the paths of others? According to this psalm, what has God provided to help you stay on His path?

Think about a time when following a path or a map helped you travel somewhere successfully. What does that experience teach you about following God’s path?

In many other scriptures, the Lord and His prophets speak of a path. Below are some examples. Consider searching these verses and writing down or sharing with others what you learn.

How can these truths help you stay on God’s path?

What additional insights can you learn from the following counsel from President Russell M. Nelson?

“If our journey through life is to be successful, we need to follow divine direction. The Lord said, ‘Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not’ [Doctrine and Covenants 6:36]. And the Psalmist wrote, ‘Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path’ [Psalm 119:105]. …

“In your journey through life, you meet many obstacles and make some mistakes. Scriptural guidance helps you to recognize error and make the necessary correction. You stop going in the wrong direction. You carefully study the scriptural road map. Then you proceed with repentance and restitution required to get on the ‘strait and narrow path which leads to eternal life’ [2 Nephi 31:18]” (“Living by Scriptural Guidance,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, 17).

See also Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Prodigal and the Road That Leads Home,” Liahona, Nov. 2023, 86–88.

Notice why, according to Psalm 135:15–18, it is foolish to trust in false gods. What might you be tempted to trust in that is similar to an idol? You might make a list of the things the Lord can do, as the psalmists did in Psalms 134–36. What powerful things has He done for you?

What do you find in Psalm 139 that helps you understand that the Lord is aware of you—your thoughts and actions, strengths and weaknesses? How does this truth influence your life and your choices?

As you read these final psalms of praise, think about reasons you have to praise the Lord. Why is it important to praise Him? What are some ways you can praise Him?

• You or one of your children could read Psalm 102:1–2, looking for how the Lord helps us during our difficulties. How can we find His help? You could also share with each other times when you needed help and felt that God heard your prayers.

• Your children might have fun talking about what it feels like to be in the dark. Or they could discuss things that are hard to do in the dark. You might invite them to do something with their eyes closed, such as draw a picture. What do we learn from Psalm 119:105 about light and the word of God?

• Look for something Heavenly Father has given us to help us stay on His path in the following verses: Psalms 119:47–48; 119:105; 1 Nephi 11:25; 2 Nephi 31:20. What can we do to stay on God’s path?

• Your children might enjoy looking at pictures of the things mentioned in Psalm 119:105. They could place the pictures in order as they read the verse. You could also sing a related song together, such as “Teach Me to Walk in the Light” (Children’s Songbook, 177) or “I Will Walk with Jesus” (Gospel Library).

• Consider making short lists of things you know about each of your children. As you read the lists one at a time, ask the children to guess who you are describing. Then, after reading Psalm 139:1–3 together, you could list things that Heavenly Father and Jesus know about us.

• Write the words of Psalm 139:23–24 on a piece of paper or a board. Invite your children to underline words that describe things God can do for us. Why would we want God to do these things?

• Maybe your children could share experiences when someone praised them or told them they did a good job. Share some of the good things from Psalm 146:6–9 that the Lord has done (help your children understand unfamiliar words). Invite your children to talk about other things He does for us. How can we praise Him for those things?

The books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes are filled with insights about wisdom. Consider marking the word “wisdom” and related words, like “knowledge” and “understanding,” as you find them in Proverbs 1–4; 15–16; Ecclesiastes 1–3; 11–12. How do these chapters affect the way you think about wisdom? Based on what you find, how would you describe the wisdom that “the Lord giveth”? (Proverbs 2:6). What blessings come from God’s wisdom?

See also Matthew 7:24–27; 25:1–13.

Another theme found throughout Proverbs and Ecclesiastes is “the fear of the Lord.” Watch for this phrase as you read. What do you feel it means to fear the Lord? Look for insights in Elder David A. Bednar’s message “Therefore They Hushed Their Fears” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 46–49). How is fear of the Lord different from other kinds of fear?

See also Proverbs 8:13.

How would you try to persuade someone that it’s better to “trust in the Lord” than to “lean … unto [our] own understanding”? (Proverbs 3:5). What comparisons or object lessons would you use? As you ponder Proverbs 3:5–7, think of ways you might complete sentences like these: Trusting the Lord is like … Leaning on our own understanding is like …

Why is it unwise to lean on our own understanding? How have you discovered that the Lord is trustworthy?

Even so, we might find it difficult to trust the Lord at times. Why is that? Elder Gerrit W. Gong suggests some reasons, along with helpful counsel, in “Trust Again” (Liahona, Nov. 2021, 97–99). What stories or teachings do you find in this message that might help someone restore their trust in the Lord?

Both Proverbs 3:6 and Proverbs 4 compare life to a “path” or a “way.” What do you think it means to let the Lord “direct [your] paths”? (Proverbs 3:6). What do you find in chapter 4 that helps you “ponder the path of [your] feet”? (verse 26). For example, what do verses 11–12 and 18–19 teach about the blessings of following the right path? What do verses 26–27 mean to you?

See also 2 Nephi 31:18–21; “Lord, I Would Follow Thee,” Hymns, no. 220.

Some of the ideas in Proverbs 15–16 might inspire you to improve the way you communicate with others, especially loved ones. For example, think about specific times when “a soft answer” helped to “[turn] away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1).

You might also think of times when the Savior exemplified the teachings in Proverbs 15:1–4, 18 (see Mark 12:13–17; John 8:1–11). How can you follow His example as you interact with others?

How might the counsel in Proverbs 15; 16:24–32 apply to today’s digital communication? See if you can find a verse in these chapters that you could rephrase as advice about interacting over social media or through text.

See also Neil L. Andersen, “Following Jesus: Being a Peacemaker,” Liahona, May 2022, 17–20; Ronald A. Rasband, “Words Matter,” Liahona, May 2024, 70–77; For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices (2022), 11–12.

Proverbs 31:10–31 describes “a virtuous woman,” or a woman of great spiritual strength, capability, and influence. You might try summarizing in your own words what each of these verses says about virtuous women. Which of these traits can you emulate?

Why is it valuable for you to remember that much in this world, as Ecclesiastes 1–2 asserts, is “vanity” (or temporary and often unimportant)? What do you find in Ecclesiastes 12 that gives life eternal value?

• To help your children understand passages about fearing God, you could substitute the word “fear” with words like reverence, love, or obedience (see also Hebrews 12:28). How does this affect the way we think about these verses? How do we show that we fear the Lord?

• You and your children could make up actions to go with Proverbs 3:5–7, like making a heart with your hands, leaning to one side, walking in place, and pointing to your eyes. How can we show that we trust Jesus Christ with all our hearts?

• To show what it means to “lean not unto thine own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5), consider inviting your children to lean against something sturdy and stable, like a wall. Then they could try leaning against something that is not sturdy, like a broom. Or they could try leaning a stick or a pencil against objects of varying sturdiness, such as a book or a piece of paper. Why is it important to “trust in the Lord” (verse 5) and not our “own understanding”?

• Perhaps you and your children can think of situations when you or they might feel angry. Read Proverbs 15:1 together, and help your children apply this verse to the situations they thought of. Maybe they could practice some “soft answers.” A song about kindness, such as “Love Is Spoken Here” (Children’s Songbook, 190–91), could reinforce this principle.

• To learn what it means to be “slow to anger” (Proverbs 15:18), you and your children could share times when you (or someone you know) felt angry but chose to be kind. Help your children think of things we can be quick to if we are “slow to anger.” For example, we can be quick to think about Jesus, to ask Heavenly Father for help, to think of a Primary song, or, if possible, to walk away.