spiritual discussions

So, almost a year ago a good friend and I both turned 30. I kind of felt like I was stuck in a rut - I guess a big chunk of my life included a whole lot of change - especially the period when I joined the church - I had moved and then found my birth mother, then got baptized, then married. During that time I found there were a lot of milestones to work towards - my university degrees, going to the temple, having kids, various callings, etc. But then came the big "endure to the end." I know I'm only 30! But for the past few years I felt like I hadn't really worked towards anything. I want to be in a state of constant growth like I was when I first joined the church. And not just spiritual growth; I want to feel productive and useful and sometimes doing the dishes and changing diapers day in and day out isn't the most rewarding experience! So, the cure! My friend and I came up with the 3 month plan. Every 3 months we have been meeting to share what we have accomplished and set a new goal for the next 3 months. So far between the two of us we have done amazing things like compose music, write stories, quilt (not me, don't worry!) and develop other talents. This past 3 month goal I set for myself was to create a year's worth of family scripture study material. However, shortly after I set off on my task I received the impression to just stick to the scriptures. Haha, don't you love it?! I thought with my young family the kids wouldn't get a whole lot out of simply reading the scriptures. Apparently I'm wrong! So we will continue to "just read the scriptures" but I did finish my goal and now we have "breakfast discussions" as well to compliment our scripture study. I only made about 200 of them as I doubt we'll get to do 1 every morning. A few friends have already asked for a copy of my little discussions so I will post them on here for anyone to use. Now here's the crazy part - for my next 3 month project, I would like to involve some more friends. Unfortunately I can't post any info on here because there is a slight chance my husband will read this and it kind of involves him but if you are interested it would obviously be between you and your husband, not mine! So if anyone out there is interested in this cryptic crazy endeavour, please let me know and I will include you in the planning.

Wilson Family Breakfast/Evening Spiritual Discussions: 2011-2012

Unit 1: Creation

1~ read chapter 1 genesis - paraphrase - order of creation - can you remember what God created first? Next? Last? How did God feel about what was created? So how does He feel about you?

2~read Moses chapter 3 verse 2 and 3- What can we do on the seventh or Sabbath day to keep it holy?

3~ read Moses chapter 3 verse 5 - Can you think of 3 things that were created spiritually before they were created naturally?

Unit 2: Family

4~Do you remember who the first man and women created were? “After Heavenly Father gave Eve to Adam, he commanded them to have children. We know that one of the purposes of marriage is to provide bodies for God’s spirit children. Parents are partners with our Heavenly Father. He wants each of his spirit children to receive a physical body and to experience earth life. When a man and a woman bring children into this world, they help our Heavenly Father carry out his plan.” What are some ways you can help your family grow stronger?
5~”marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children.” We learn many things from our families. I have learned how to be more Christ-like by caring for my children. You have learned how to share and how to love. What else has your family taught you?

6~ “Home is a place where we can all learn and grow together” “God gave us families to help us become what He wants us to be- this is how He shares His love, for the family is of God.” What is something you love about your family? Don’t forget to say thank you to God in your prayers today for your family!

7~King Benjamin explained: “Ye will not suffer your children . . . [to] fight and quarrel one with another. . . .But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another” Have you ever felt upset when mom or dad give you a time out or a punishment when you were fighting with your sister or brother? Did you know Heavenly Father wants them to teach you to love one another?

8~ watch I am a child of God: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOrcqqpHCt8&feature=relmfu If we are all children of God, what does that make us?

Unit 3: Uniqueness

9~”All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny.” What does God look like? What does beloved mean? Beloved of heavenly parents? What does divine nature mean? What is your destiny?

10~”God placed within women divine qualities of strength, virtue, love and the willingness to sacrifice to raise future generations of His spirit children.” What can you do to develop those qualities? What qualities do you think He placed within men?

Unit 4: Agency

11~"If pain and sorrow and total punishment immediately followed the doing of evil, no soul would repeat a misdeed. If joy and peace and rewards were instantaneously given the doer of good, there could be no evil—all would do good and not because of the rightness of doing good. There would be no test of strength, no development of character, no growth of powers, no free agency. . . . There would also be an absence of joy, success, resurrection, eternal life, and godhood." (Spencer W Kimball) In other words, if something bad happened to you right away after you made a bad choice and something good happened to you right after you made a good choice everyone would always choose the right. This would be bad because you would never have to test yourself so you would never progress and become a better person. You would never feel true joy or feel success. What is agency? Are you happy you get to choose for yourself?

12~Read D&C 20:17. How do you feel about God being over everything? If He is in control of everything, why do you think He lets bad things happen?

13~ When we choose to live according to God’s plan for us, our agency is strengthened. Right choices increase our power to make more right choices. Let’s try to always choose the right!

Unit 5: Christ’s birth

14~watch: http://www.youtube.com/user/MormonMessages#p/search/39/X9VOhIWtzXM

15~watch Joy to Everyone: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=fw1BwFp-Ojk

16~Read Luke 2:7-11. Why do you think the angel said “I bring you... great joy”

Unit 6: Christ’s second coming:

17~Robert D Hales: “Brothers and sisters, the prophecies of Christ's first coming were fulfilled, ‘every whit.’ As a result, many throughout the world believe that the Savior did come and did live in the meridian of time. But there are still many prophecies yet to be fulfilled! Prophets prophesy and testify of Christ's Second Coming. They also witness of the signs and wonders all about us, telling us that Christ will surely come again. Are we choosing to believe their words?” What are some of the signs and wonders?

18~In “I’m trying to be Like Jesus” we sing “I watch for the day of gladness when Jesus will come again.” Are you glad, scared or excited? Why?

19~Dallin H Oaks: "Signs of the Second Coming are all around us and seem to be increasing in frequency and intensity. . . . While we are powerless to alter the fact of the Second Coming and unable to know its exact time, we need to make both temporal and spiritual preparation for the events prophesied at the time of the Second Coming." What can you and your family do to prepare for the second coming?

Unit 7: Miracles of Jesus

20~Read Matthew 8:23-27. If Jesus has the power to control the wind and the waves, do you think He has the power to hear and answer your prayers?

21~Read John 2:1-11. Why did Jesus perform this miracle? What kind of person is Jesus?

22~Read Matthew 8:14-15. Jesus healed many people when He lived on earth. Do you have faith that He can help you feel better whenever you are sick or sad or lonely?

23~Read Matthew 14: 22-33. We will be safe if we keep our eyes on Jesus.

24~Read Matthew 14:13-21. Why did Jesus perform this miracle? Do you think He loves you, too?

Unit 8: Parables

25~Read Luke 10:25-37. Who is your neighbour? What can you do to love your neighbour?

26~Read Luke 15:11-32. If you ever make a big mistake you can always repent. Your Father in heaven loves you so much and He wants to welcome you back home!

27~Read Matthew 18:12-14 -Do you think Jesus cares for us even more than a shepherd cares for his sheep?

28~Read Mark 4:30-32. The tiny mustard seed is like the gospel - when you plant the seed of Love in your heart it grows so big it fills your whole life with joy!

29~Read Matthew 25:1-13. It is important to be prepared. Are you doing everything you can to prepare yourself to meet Jesus again?

30~Read Luke 16:19-31. What do you value most, money and things, or loving others? Which of these brings you happiness after death?

31~Read Matthew 20:1-16. Is God generous? Does He want everyone to feel happy and accept the gospel?

32~Read Matthew 18:21-35. Is it hard to forgive sometimes? Do you like it when people forgive you?

Unit 9: Book of Mormon stories: (54 illustrated, condensed stories)

http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=e59c5f74db46c010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=15e5c106dac20110VgnVCM100000176f620a____

Unit 10: Temples

85~ “Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally” Because Daddy and I were sealed together in the temple when we got married, we are a forever family. How does that make you feel? Are you going to get married in the temple, too? What can you do to prepare to go to the temple?

86~”If we are to live forever with our families in Heavenly Father’s presence, we must do all that the Savior commands us to do. This includes being baptized and receiving the ordinances of the temple.” Do you remember the last time we visited the temple grounds? What does it feel like there?

87~”Heavenly Father wants all of his children to return and live with him. For those who died without baptism or the temple ordinances, he has provided a way for this to happen. He has asked us to perform ordinances for our ancestors in the temples.” Who are our ancestors? Why should we do this work for them? How would you feel if someone did this for you?

88~”We also go to the temple to learn more about Heavenly Father and his Son, Jesus Christ. We gain a better understanding of our purpose in life and our relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus. We are taught about our pre-mortal existence, the meaning of earth life, and life after death.” What is your purpose in life? If you could ask God any questions about the meaning of life or life after death what would you ask?

Unit 11: Commandments:

89~D&C 93:1 - Every soul who forsaketh his sins and cometh unto me and calleth on my name and obeyeth my voice and keepeth my commandments shall see my face and know that I am.” Would you like to see God’s face? What do you think He looks like? What do you have to do to see Him and know that he is real?

90~ Thou shalt have no other gods before me. What could “gods” be? Do you value anything more than God?

91~Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain. Why is it important to treat God’s name with respect? What can you do if someone else is using God’s name in a bad way?

92~Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy. Which day of the week is the Sabbath day? “Even God rested from his labours on this day and He expects His children to do the same. 3 things the Lord requires of us: keep ourselves unspotted from the world, go to the house of prayer to worship, and rest from our labours.” What do you do to keep the Sabbath day holy?

93~Honour thy father and thy mother. What does it mean to honour?

94~Thou shalt not kill. We all know we should not take away anyone’s life. But what about hurting them? We should not kill people, but what about animals? insects? plants? When is it OK?

95~THou shalt not commit adultery. “Marriage between a man and woman is ordained of God.” When you get married you promise to love and live with the person you married. Honour that promise.

96~Thou shalt not steal. Joseph Smith once borrowed his neighbour’s axe. As soon as he was finished with it he returned it - sharpened. We should also treat other people’s things with respect. Do you think it’s OK to steal things that aren’t things - like ideas, music, or even a particular way of talking or smiling?

97~Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. This kind of means don’t lie. Who is your neighbour? You want to always protect and uplift them. What can you do if other people are saying untrue things about your neighbour?

98~Thou shalt not covet... pretty much any thing that is thy neighbour’s. What does it mean to be jealous? Should we compare ourselves to others? There is a saying: the grass is always greener on the other side. What do you think that means?

99~Read Matthew 22:37-40: "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets" This is similar to the golden rule: Do unto others as you would have them to unto you. Can you describe the golden rule to me in different words? Can you give me an example? What do you think the world would be like if everyone followed this simple rule?

100~Read Mosiah 18:10 - “baptism is a covenant to serve God and keep His commandments.” Every time we take the sacrament we can remember the commandments and think about how we are trying to serve God. Next time you take the sacrament what will you think about?

Unit 12: Prophets

101~“Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7). Who is the prophet alive on the earth right now? What amazing things do you think he knows?

102~A prophet is a man called by God to be his representative on earth. When a prophet speaks for God, it is as if God were speaking. A prophet is also a special witness of Christ. Next time you hear the prophet speak, listen carefully for his testimony. Listen to see if he testifies of Christ!

103~There have been prophets on the earth from the beginning. Who do you think was the first prophet? Prophets have been young or old, rich or poor. Some have amazing stories like Moses or Joseph Smith. Do you have a favorite prophet?

Unit 13: Holy Ghost

104~Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are called the Godhead. They are unified in purpose. Each has an important assignment in the plan of salvation. Our Heavenly Father is our Father and ruler. Jesus Christ is our Savior. The Holy Ghost is the revealer and testifier of all truth. Have you ever felt something is right or wrong? That is the Holy Ghost helping you to know.

105~The Holy Ghost is our Heavenly Father’s messenger and is a special gift to us. He is a spirit, He does not have a body like we do. Are you grateful for this special gift?

106~The gift of the Holy Ghost is like the sun. When it is covered by clouds we can’t see it or feel it’s warmth but it is still there. When we are making bad choices and are filled with sin, we can’t feel the Holy Spirit or have His help but He is still there. What can you do to be worthy to always have the spirit to be with you?

Unit 14: Prayer

107~Prayer is a sincere, heartfelt talk with our Heavenly Father. We should pray to God and to no one else. We do not pray to any other being or to anything made by man or God. How do you think it would make God feel if we prayed to someone or something else?

108~ Gordon B. Hinckley: "If Life Gets Too Hard To Stand, Kneel." What does this mean? Why do we kneel when we pray?

109~Henry B Eyering: "Jesus Christ is the light and the life of the world. If we do not choose to move toward Him, we will find that we have moved away. . . . Whether or not you choose to keep your covenant to always remember Him, He always remembers you." One time when I was trying especially hard to remember Him ALWAYS I wrote all over my hand in black marker so that every time I looked at my hand I would remember Him. It came off when I was doing the dishes. Sometimes it is hard to remember Him always. What do you do to try to remember Him always? Does it make you feel good to know He always remembers you?

110~Read James 1:5 What are some of the things that are good to pray about? When should we pray?

111~When Alma’s people were heavily burdened by the Lamanites and told not to pray, they prayed in their hearts. The Lord rescued them from that bad situation. Where should we pray? How should we pray?

112~Our sincere prayers are always answered. Sometimes the answer may be no, because what we have asked for would not be best for us. Sometimes the answer is yes, and we have a warm, comfortable feeling about what we should do. Sometimes the answer is “wait a while.” Our prayers are always answered at a time and in a way that the Lord knows will help us the most.

Unit 14: Pre-mortal existence

113~ “In the premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshiped God as their Eternal Father and accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize his or her divine destiny as an heir of eternal life.” Do you remember what the premortal realm was like? Close your eyes and imagine what it was like. Were you a spirit son or daughter? What was the plan that you accepted? What is an heir? Are you excited to return to live with your Father in heaven again? What do you think you need to learn before you can return to Him?

114~Our Heavenly Parents Desired to Share Their Joy with Us

Our heavenly parents provided us with a celestial home more glorious and beautiful than any place on earth. We were happy there. Yet they knew we could not progress beyond a certain point unless we left them for a time. They wanted us to develop the godlike qualities that they have. To do this, we needed to leave our celestial home to be tested and to gain experience. We needed to choose good over evil. What are some of the tests you think you will have in your life? Will you choose good or evil?

115~Our spirits needed to be clothed with physical bodies. We would need to leave our physical bodies at death and reunite with them in the Resurrection. Then we would receive immortal bodies like those of our heavenly parents. If we passed our tests, we would receive the fulness of joy that our heavenly parents have received. What do you think a fullness of joy feels like? Do you like your physical body? Let’s do our best to take good care of the gift we’ve been given!

116~We needed a Savior to pay for our sins and teach us how to return to our Heavenly Father. Our Father said, “Whom shall I send?” (Abraham 3:27). Two of our brothers offered to help. Our oldest brother, Jesus Christ, who was then called Jehovah, said, “Here am I, send me” (Abraham 3:27). What did Jesus do to help? Do you think He was brave?

117~ Satan was the other brother. He wanted to force us all to do his will. Under his plan, we would not be allowed to choose. He would take away the freedom of choice that our Father had given us. Satan wanted to have all the honor for our salvation. Would we still progress and grow if we didn’t have any choices?

118~Because our Heavenly Father chose Jesus Christ to be our Savior, Satan became angry and rebelled. There was war in heaven. Satan and his followers fought against Jesus and his followers. Satan and his followers were cast out of heaven. They never got to come to earth and get bodies and learn and grow like us. They are mad about that so they always try to trick us into making bad choices. Next time you feel like making a bad choice what can you do?

119~We chose Jesus to be our savior and we were on the right side of that war in heaven. How do we know this?

120~When the plan for our salvation was presented to us in the spirit world, we were so happy that we shouted for joy (see Job 38:7). Make a family cheer!

Unit 15: After the Resurrection

121~Eventually our mortal bodies will die, and our spirits will go to the spirit world. The spirit world is a place of waiting, working, learning, and resting from care and sorrow. Our spirits will live there until we are ready for our resurrection.

122~Read Acts 2:38. What must we do to show that we accept the Atonement?

123~Compare our earthly bodies to a hand with a glove on it. Take off the glove. Explain that this is like physical death— the spirit (the hand) and the body (the glove) are separated. Explain that because Jesus Christ atoned for our sins, all people will someday be resurrected. (Put the glove on your hand.) Our bodies and our spirits will reunite.

124~Mormon 9:12–14 Everyone will eventually be resurrected. What do you think this will be like?

Unit 16: Fasting

125~Read Doctrine and Covenants 88:76. Discuss why fasting is given as a commandment.

126~The Savior taught us that purposeful fasting is more than just going without food and drink. We must also concentrate on spiritual matters. What are a few ways we can concentrate on spiritual matters?

Unit 17: Tithing

127~"The temporal and spiritual blessings of tithing are specifically tailored to us and our families, according to the Lord's will, but to receive them, we must obey the law upon which they are predicated." In other words, because we are all different and have different needs, Heavenly Father blesses us with what He things we need the most. All we have to do to get these blessings is obey the law He has given us. What is “the law” in this quote? (tithing - 10%) What blessings would you like to receive?

128~Some people say, 'I can't afford to pay tithing.' Those who place their faith in the Lord's promises say, 'I can't afford not to pay tithing.’ Why would someone say I can’t afford NOT to pay tithing? Many times we have received unexpected money shortly after paying our tithing. I have a testimony that Heavenly Father does bless us when we are doing our best to keep His commandments.

Unit 18: Attributes of Our Heavenly Father

129~”God is perfect. He is a God of love, mercy, charity, truth, power, faith, knowledge, and judgment. He has all power. He knows all things. He is full of goodness.” God knows ALL THINGS. He even knows how many hairs you have on your head. How many do you think you have? Can you imagine knowing everything? Wouldn’t you rather trust someone who knows EVERYTHING, someone who knows the end from the beginning over someone who only knows some things or even most things? So who should you trust more, yourself? your parents? or God?

130~"The Lord doesn't expect us to work harder than we are able. He doesn't (nor should we) compare our efforts to those of others. Our Heavenly Father asks only that we do the best we can—that we work according to our full capacity, however great or small that may be." He knows even the desires of our hearts - what we are thinking and feeling. He knows when we are working our hardest. Will you strive to always do your best?

131~”In the image of His own body, male and female, created He them...” What does Heavenly Father look like?

132~ “All good things come from God. Everything that he does is to help his children become like him—a god.” What has He done to help you become more like Him?

133~“Behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). Even God does work? Is work good for us to do? why? Are you happy Heavenly Father works for our eternal life?

Unit 19: Faith

134~Faith is a “hope for things which are not seen, which are true” I can’t see you when we are talking on the phone - but I can hear your voice and know that you are there. We use our faith to believe in something even when we don’t see or hear it! What is something you have faith in?

135~Would a farmer plant a tomato seed if he didn’t hope to one day have a tomato plant? The farmer has faith that if he plants a seed, a plant will grow. Have you ever done anything in faith?

136~To have faith in Jesus Christ means to have such trust in him that we obey whatever he commands. Will you have faith and keep his commands even when they are hard?

137~“It will comfort us when we are going through trials to know the Savior has promised us relief. He knows how to heal and help us. And faith in that power will give us patience as we pray and work and wait for help.” How can we increase our faith?

138~“All things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator” (Alma 30:44). We can look up at the sky at night and have an idea of what Alma meant. There are millions of stars and planets all in perfect order. They did not get there by chance. We can see the work of God in the heavens and on the earth. The many beautiful plants, the many kinds of animals, the mountains, the rivers, the clouds that bring us rain and snow—all these testify to us that there is a God.” What are some of the things around you that help you believe in God?

Unit 20: Obedience

139~There is no faith where there is no obedience. Likewise, there is true obedience only where there is faith. As we place our faith in Jesus Christ, becoming his obedient disciples, Heavenly Father will forgive our sins and prepare us to return to him. What are some of the blessings of being faithful?

140~”Our Heavenly Father is a God of high expectations. His expectations for us are expressed by His Son, Jesus Christ, in these words: “I would that ye should be perfect even as I, or your Father who is in heaven is perfect” How do we become or try to become perfect? What does He do to help us along the way?

141~Read 1 Nephi 3:7 - “I will go and do the things which the Lord has commanded.” Did the Lord ask Nephi to do easy things or hard things? Will He ask you to do hard things, too? What will your answer be?

Unit 21: Honesty

142~”honest hearts produce honest actions.” How can you tell if you have an honest heart?

143~ “Righteous lips are the delight of kings.” In this proverb, kings or people who are mighty and good are happy when someone’s lips speak things that are true and do not lie. It is so easy to tell a lie but it can trap you and it is wrong. Decide now to always choose the right and never tell a lie.

Unit 22: Respect

144~You do not wake up one morning a bad person. It happens by a thousand tiny surrenders of self-respect - for every time you make a choice you know is wrong you are not being true to yourself. Do you love and respect yourself?

145~”Reverence is more than just quietly sitting, it’s thinking of Father above. A feeling I get when I think of His blessings, I’m reverent for reverence is love.” When you love someone, you show your love by respecting and honoring them. Who do you love? What are some ways you can be respectful?

146~"If we are to hold up this Church as an ensign to the nations and a light to the world, we must take on more of the luster of the life of Christ." (Gordon B Hinckley) We can be a good example to those around us if we show respect to ourselves, God, others and the beautiful earth we have been blessed with.

Unit 23: Self-discipline

147~President Gordon B. Hinckley has said: 'One of the greatest values . . . is the virtue of honest work. One of the ways I have learned how to have self-discipline is to set goals for myself. I keep track of my goals and I remind myself to work hard on them. Once I have completed a goal I feel good about myself for doing something hard but also for having the self-discipline to complete the task. What is a goal you would like to set for yourself?

148~ “Character is doing the right thing even when no one is looking.” Who is always looking? Who will always know if you make a bad choice?

149~ “And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee... and if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee, for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.” If you are able to learn how to control your body and your mind you are like a king or a queen. Govern yourself wisely!

Unit 24: Be- attitudes:

150~Be Grateful: Read Luke 17:11-19. What are you thankful for? How can you show your gratitude?

151~”Come what may... and love it.” What does this mean? Does that mean we should be grateful even for the things that we don’t like?

152~Be Smart: Read Luke 19:11-28. Which servant was the wisest? You will be rewarded if you are true and faithful. What can you do with the talents you have been given?

153~”I must remind you that you must get all of the education that you possibly can.” Does knowing that a prophet of God told you to get all the education you can get change your attitude toward school? How can you be a better student?

154~Be Involved: “It is out of my heart and my love that I plead with you to stay on the high road. Create fun with your good friends. Sing and dance, swim and hike, become involved in projects together, and live life with zest and excitement.” President Hinckley encouraged us to be involved in good things. What good things are you involved in? What else would you like to be involved in?

155~Be True: “He may be trusted because of the integrity of his heart” What is integrity? Why would integrity be important? Who should you be true to?

156~Be Still: “To every thing there is a ^aseason, and a ^btime to every purpose under the heaven: A ^atime to be born, and a time to ^bdie; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to ^alaugh; a time to ^bmourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to ^aget, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to ^arend, and a time to sew; a time to keep ^bsilence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to ^ahate; a time of war, and a time of peace.” What do you like to do when you take time to be still?

157~"Suppose a storm is raging and the winds howl and the snow swirls about you. You find yourself unable to stop it. But you can dress properly and seek shelter, and the storm will have no effect upon you.” When life gets crazy and times are tough, you can always remember tom the turkey! Remember to breathe and pray and read the scriptures. What do you like to think about when you remember to be still?

158~Be Humble: ~Read Luke 18:9-14. A pharisee was someone who everyone thought was an important man and a tax collector was someone that most people didn’t like. Do you think it is OK to judge others and choose who is better and who is worse? Should we love everyone and try to think the best of others?

159~Be Clean: “Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God.” What can you do to help keep our house clean and orderly?

160~”I say unto you, can ye look up to God at that day with a pure heart and clean hands? I say unto you, can you look up, having the image of God engraven upon your countenances?” What does it mean to have a pure heart and clean hands? When you have a pure heart you desire good. Clean hands refer to your actions - do you sin or make wise choices? - thankfully the Savior helps when we all fall short!

161~Be Positive: Read Matthew 5:14-16. How can you shine? Sing or read lyrics to Jesus wants me for a sunbeam. What can you do to make your home a more cheerful place?

162~Read Matthew 7:24-27. The rain came on the wise man and the foolish man. You will have times in your life that will be hard, too. How are you going to react to them?

163~Be Prayerful. Listen to a prayer that Jesus once prayed: Read: Matthew 6:9-13

Beatitudes:

164~Blessed are the ^bpoor in spirit: for theirs is the ^ckingdom of heaven. What does this quote mean? What will the kingdom of heaven be like?

165~Blessed are they that ^amourn: for they shall be ^bcomforted. Have you ever been really sad and then been comforted?

166~Blessed are the ^ameek: for they shall inherit the ^bearth. What is another word for meek? Would you like to inherit the earth?

167~Blessed are they which do ^ahunger and thirst after ^brighteousness: for they shall be filled. One of my favorite quotes is: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.”

168~Blessed are the ^amerciful: for they shall obtain mercy. What is mercy? What do you think it would feel like to obtain mercy?

169~ Blessed are the ^apure in ^bheart: for they shall ^csee God. How can we make/keep our hearts pure? Would you like to see God?

170~Blessed are the ^apeacemakers: for they shall be called the ^bchildren of God. What are 3 things you can do to be a better peacemaker?

171~Blessed are they which are ^apersecuted for ^brighteousness’ sake: for ^ctheirs is the kingdom of heaven. Joseph Smith was persecuted to the point that he died for righteousness’ sake. You will be persecuted sometimes, too, although not like Joseph Smith was - you may be laughed at or made fun of for choosing the right but your reward will be greater than your momentary embarrassment. Will you choose now to be like Joseph Smith and choose the right even when it is hard?

172~ Blessed are ye, when men shall ^arevile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of ^bevil against you falsely, ^cfor my sake. What did Jesus do for you? Wouldn’t you do anything for Him, even put up with people saying false or evil things?

Unit 24: Courage

173~ Courage is: “Daring to attempt difficult things that are good, Having the strength not to follow the crowd, Influencing others to do the right thing, Being true to convictions and following good impulses, even when they are unpopular or inconvenient.” Can you think of anyone who is courageous?

174~Paraphrase the story of Daniel and the lions (complete version found in the book of Daniel, old testament) What did Daniel do that was courageous? How was he rewarded?

Unit 25: Loyalty

175~Loyalty is endless devotion or faithfulness to something or someone. I am committed to our family and I will always love you and be loyal to you. I will always try to make our family strong and I will never give up.

176~Paraphrase the story of Esther. (see book of Esther in OT) What did Esther do to show her loyalty to her people and her God?

177~”If all my friends were to jump off a bridge, I wouldn't follow. I'd be at the bottom to catch them when they fall.” Would you do something you know is a bad choice just because everyone else is doing it, or would you try to help and protect them?

Unit 26: Dependability

178~“When our wagon gets stuck in the mud, God is much more likely to assist the man who gets out to push than the man who merely raises his voice in prayer—no matter how eloquent the oration. President Thomas S. Monson put it this way: ‘It is not enough to want to make the effort and to say we’ll make the effort. . . . It’s in the doing, not just the thinking, that we accomplish our goals. If we constantly put our goals off, we will never see them fulfilled.’”

179~ Tell story of when Nephi broke his bow. His brothers were upset because they were depending on him to bring them meat to eat. Did Nephi give up when his bow was broken? What did he do? Will Heavenly Father help you when you need it, too? I’m glad Nephi was able to be dependable and provide food for his family.

Unit 27: Trust

180~When Jesus lived on earth, he taught: “I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. . . . And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day” (John 6:38, 40) Who should we believe or trust in?

181~”Let your yay be yay and your nay be nay.” In other words, If you say yes - follow through and mean it. If you say no, make sure your actions also say no. That way people will be able to trust you and know that when you say something they can believe you. Who is someone that you trust? Do you also trust yourself?

Unit 28: Unselfishness

182~"The more we obey God, the more we desire to help others. The more we help others, the more we love God and on and on. Conversely, the more we disobey God and the more selfish we are, the less love we feel." Do you see how thinking about others can make you happy? Draw a circle in the air. Can you show me in your circle what happens when you obey God? Desire to help others? Help others? Love God?

John H. Groberg - 2004 Oct. Gen. Conf

Unit 29: Peacemaking

183~”Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God.” A peacemaker is a person who brings about peace. Would a peacemaker use angry words or soft words when someone is upset with them? What can you do to help make peace in your family?

Unit 30: Kindness:

184~“We should well remember that the Lord often sends 'blessings from above, through words and deeds of those who love'...Love is the very essence of the gospel of Christ. Think of something kind someone has done for you!

Joseph B. Wirthlin - General Conference. Oct. 1997

185~Charity is the pure love of Christ. How can you have charity or love for others? Serve them! Think of something kind you can do for someone else!

186~“Everyone needs good friends. Your circle of friends will greatly influence your thinking and behavior, just as you will theirs. When you share common values with your friends, you can strengthen and encourage each other.” What is something you can say to encourage or strengthen a friend? What is something you can do?

187~“A person cannot give a crust to the Lord without receiving a loaf in return.” What does this mean? Have you ever received any big blessings?

Unit 31: Talents

188~ Read Matthew 25:14-29 How can you develop your talents just as the servants turned their talents or money into more money?

189~ Doctrine and Covenants 60:13: “Thou shalt not idle away thy time, neither shalt thou bury thy talent that it may not be known.” We are meant to grow and progress during our time here on earth. What are some of the talents you have been blessed with that you would like to continue to work on?

Unit 32: Repentance

190~ During this time we all sin. We all have need to repent. Sometimes we sin because of ignorance, sometimes because of our weaknesses, and sometimes because of willful disobedience. Ignorance would be when you don’t even know you are doing something wrong. Which reason for sinning do you think is the worst?

191~Pres. Monson: “If any has stumbled in his journey, there is a way back. The process is called repentance. Our Savior died to provide you and me that blessed gift. Though the path is difficult, the promise is real: 'Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow' (Isaiah 1:18)." Close your eyes and take a few minutes to think in your head: is there anything you need to repent of?

192~Read: Matthew 6:14-15 Why should we be careful to always forgive others?

Unit 32: Articles of Faith:

193~We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost. Can you repeat those words after me 3 times?

194~We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam's transgression. Read 2 Nephi 2: 22-23 and "Adam fell that men might be, and men are that they might have joy." What is something that makes you feel full of joy?

195~We believe that through the atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel. What do we have to be obedient to?

196~We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. Do you have faith in Jesus? Are you going to get baptized?

197~We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof. Why is authority important?

198~We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth. Jesus organized the primitive church or the church when He was on the earth. Why do you think we have the same organization in our church now?

199~We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth. What is the gift of tongues? Can you think of any more “so forth” items?

200~We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God. Have you prayed to know if the Bible and Book of Mormon really are the word of God?

201~We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God. How do you think these things will be revealed?

202~We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory. Some of the signs of Christ’s second coming have already happened. Are you prepared for these things to come?

203~We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may. What does this mean? Should we say anything bad about grandma’s church or what any of our friends believe in?

204~We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law. Do you know who the prime minister or president of Canada is? What are some of the laws we obey in Canada?

205~We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul--We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things. What are some of the good things you seek after?

Unit 34: Trials:

206~“Opposition is part of Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness. We all encounter enough opposition to bring us to an awareness of our Father’s love and of our need for the Savior’s help. The Savior is not a silent observer. He himself knows personally and infinitely the pain we face.” You will go through hard times. Who can you turn to for help when you need it?

207~Gordon B Hinckley: "You have not failed until you quit trying." Sometimes we pass through trials or have hard things happen to us because we need to learn a lesson from them. What does President Hinckley think we should do if we have trials?

Unit 35: Preisthood:

208~The priesthood is the power and authority of God. By his priesthood power the heavens and the earth were created. By this power the universe is kept in perfect order. Through this power he accomplishes his work and glory. I think it is incredible that God would share this amazing power with man.

209~The Lord has prepared an orderly way for his priesthood to be given to his sons on the earth. A worthy male member of the Church receives the priesthood “by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority.” What are some of the things a priesthood holder is able to do?

210~The priesthood should be used to bless the lives of our Heavenly Father’s children here on earth. Priesthood holders should preside in love and kindness. They should not force their families and others to obey them. The Lord has told us that the power of the priesthood cannot be controlled except in righteousness. Have you ever been blessed by the priesthood?

211~”There once was a man whose lifelong dream was to board a cruise ship and sail the Mediterranean Sea. He saved every penny until he had enough for his ticket. Since money was tight, he brought an extra suitcase filled with cans of beans, boxes of crackers, and bags of powdered lemonade, and that is what he lived on every day.He would have loved to take part in the many activities offered on the ship—working out in the gym, playing miniature golf, and swimming in the pool. He envied those who went to movies, shows, and cultural presentations. And, oh, how he yearned for only a taste of the amazing food he saw on the ship—every meal appeared to be a feast! But the man wanted to spend so very little money that he didn’t participate in any of these. He was able to see the cities he had longed to visit, but for the most part of the journey, he stayed in his cabin and ate only his humble food. On the last day of the cruise, a crew member asked him which of the farewell parties he would be attending. It was then that the man learned that not only the farewell party but almost everything on board the cruise ship—the food, the entertainment, all the activities—had been included in the price of his ticket. Too late the man realized that he had been living far beneath his privileges. The question this parable raises is, Are we as priesthood holders living below our privileges when it comes to the sacred power, gifts, and blessings that are our opportunity and right as bearers of God’s priesthood?”

*quotes were taken from conference talks; the family, a proclamation to the world; the gospel principles manual and the scriptures.