Why do we have Family Home Evening? Why do we attend church? Why do seminaries and institutes exist? Why did God give us families? Because there is a war going on, and it’s not just physical. It’s definitely time for FHE!
Opening Song: #270 I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go
Opening Prayer: By invitation.
Time to Celebrate. What happy moments did your loved ones have this past week? You might take a moment to celebrate successes. This way your children will notice they do have strength sufficient to face challenges and to serve others.
Emergency Prep Minute. Just a little bit of weekly preparation can empower your children as they mature. What emergency tip do you want to share with your family this week?
Favorite Scripture Time. When kids and adults share favorite scriptures, you help encourage joy in scripture reading. You can include a few moments at the beginning of each week’s FHE to help bring the spirit and to settle the children for the lesson.
Activity. We offer a suggested FHE activity…but do feel free to choose what you feel is most suited to your family’s needs this week.
Items Needed:
- Ruler or yardstick, dipstick, measuring cup
- Scriptures
Here are a few ideas you might try with your family…or you may have a different way to teach. Regardless of the method, enjoy this weekly time with your loved one!
Show the measuring instruments. Ask what they have in common. How are they different? How do we use them? What would happen if we didn’t use them when they were needed?
Read the scripture found in D&C 76: 25-29.
Here are some possible questions you might explore with your family. What are their thoughts? (Remember, as children process information through their experiences, the knowledge lasts longer.)
- What was Lucifer’s position in the pre-mortal existence?
- What was his rebellion?
- Has he changed at all since then? Why or why not?
- What is Heavenly Father wanting to teach us in verse 27?
- What more do we learn in verse 28?
Explain that just as we have measuring tools in front of us to help us in various tasks (i.e. the dipstick for measuring oil in a car), God has given us tools to help us measure how much impact Lucifer is having on us. Here are a few more questions you might explore as a family:
- What defenses or “tools” has the Lord given us?
- (As the family shares, you then might ask:) How has ________ helped you?
- What is at risk if we ignore these “instruments” of help?
- What goals might we make as a family for this coming week?
You may want to close by sharing your knowledge of the safety and protection that is found within true gospel principles and your love for each person in the family. And here is an excellent promise to end the night with, found in D&C 84:88!
Closing Song: #40 Arise, O Glorious Zion
Closing Prayer. By invitation.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Here is a prophetic voice, offered by Elder M. Russell Ballard more than 20 years ago, warning as to one portion of the battle we face. It is entitled, “The Effects of Television.”
May you have a powerful “family week”!
C.S. Bezas obtained a degree in Communications, with an emphasis in training programs and human resource development. Struggling with your teens? C.S. Bezas’ book is an essential help for parents and youth leaders. Powerful Tips for Powerful Teachers teaches you how to create long-lasting change. Visit your local LDS bookstore or get your copy online here.
