In this post, we’ll be deep-diving into Doctrine and Covenants 23-26. To download the free Lesson Help PDF or customizable Canva Template, click here: https://otherthanamom.myflodesk.com/dandc23-26
The Savior can lift me “up out of [my] afflictions.”
Engaging Questions:
- What does Doctrine and Covenants 24:8 teach about enduring afflictions? How does this promise bring you comfort?
- Have you ever experienced a time when you felt the Savior lifting you during a difficult trial? What happened?
- What do you think it means for the Lord to “lift us up” out of our afflictions? Does this always mean removing our challenges?
- How can turning to Christ in prayer, scripture study, or service help us find strength during hard times?
- What role does faith play in trusting that the Savior will help us through our trials?
- Doctrine and Covenants 25:10 tells Emma Smith to “lift up thy heart and rejoice.” How can we find joy even in difficult circumstances?
- How can you help lift others who are struggling with their own afflictions?
- What are some ways the Lord has comforted His people in the scriptures? How can these stories inspire you today?
- How can looking back on past experiences of overcoming hardship strengthen your faith in Christ’s power to help you now?
- What is one thing you can do this week to rely more on the Savior when facing challenges?
Object Lessons:
1. The Heavy Backpack (Burdens Lifted by Christ)
Materials:
- A backpack filled with heavy books or objects
- A volunteer to wear the backpack
Lesson Overview:
Have a volunteer put on the heavy backpack and walk a few steps. Ask them how it feels. Then, remove the backpack and discuss how much lighter and freer they feel. Explain that Christ doesn’t just help us carry burdens—He lifts them off us completely when we turn to Him in faith.
Discussion Points:
- What kinds of burdens (trials, sins, sorrows) do we carry?
- How does Christ lift us up when we turn to Him?
- What can we do to allow the Savior to relieve our afflictions?
2. The Stuck and Freed Hand (Rescue from Trials)
Materials:
- A small jar or container with a narrow opening
- Small objects like marbles or a toy
Lesson Overview:
Put small objects inside the jar and ask a volunteer to grab one with their hand inside. If they make a fist, their hand gets stuck. If they let go, they can pull their hand out freely. Explain that sometimes we hold on to worry, pain, or fear, and Christ asks us to let go so He can lift us.
Discussion Points:
- What are things we sometimes hold onto that keep us stuck?
- How does trusting in Christ help us let go and move forward?
- What personal experiences have helped you feel the Savior’s relief?
3. The Lifesaver (Christ is Our Rescuer)
Materials:
- A lifesaver candy or a lifesaver flotation ring (or a picture of one)
Lesson Overview:
Show the lifesaver and explain how it is designed to rescue someone who is drowning. Ask: “What happens if a drowning person refuses help?” Like a lifeguard, Christ reaches out to lift us from affliction, but we must choose to take His hand.
Discussion Points:
- How do people sometimes “drown” in their afflictions?
- What does it mean to reach for Christ’s help?
- How have you seen the Savior rescue you or others?
4. The Balloon vs. the Rock (Trusting Christ to Lift Us)
Materials:
- A helium balloon
- A small rock or heavy object
Lesson Overview:
Show the balloon, which rises when released, and the rock, which stays down. Explain that faith and trust in Christ allow us to rise above affliction like the balloon, while fear, doubt, and sin weigh us down like the rock.
Discussion Points:
- What are things that can keep us weighed down?
- How does Christ help us rise above challenges?
- How can we develop greater faith in His power to lift us?
5. The Stuck Shoe (Moving Forward with Christ’s Help)
Materials:
- Mud, tape, or a sticky surface
- A shoe or small object
Lesson Overview:
Stick a shoe into the mud or tape it to the floor and try to lift it. Explain that, like getting stuck in the mud, trials and struggles hold us down. Then, pull the shoe free, explaining that Christ helps lift us from our struggles when we rely on Him.
Discussion Points:
- What are things that keep us stuck spiritually or emotionally?
- How does the Savior help us move forward despite trials?
- How have you experienced Christ lifting you in a difficult time?
6. The Elevator Button (Asking for Christ’s Help to Be Lifted)
Materials:
- A picture of an elevator button
- A small chair or stool
Lesson Overview:
Ask: “If you’re on the first floor and want to go up, what do you have to do?” (Press the button.) Explain that Christ has the power to lift us, but we must ask (through prayer and faith). Like stepping onto an elevator, trusting in Him allows us to rise above our trials.
Discussion Points:
- What happens when we try to lift ourselves without help?
- How does faith act as the “button” that brings Christ’s help?
- What are ways we can actively invite Christ’s power into our lives?
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you faced a difficult trial and turned to the Savior for help. How did He lift and strengthen you during that time?
- Think of a time when you felt weighed down by sorrow or discouragement. How did you feel the Savior’s love and power lifting you out of your affliction?
- Think of a time when you received peace through prayer during a challenging situation. How did that experience strengthen your faith in Christ’s ability to comfort you?
- Think of a time when you felt physically or emotionally exhausted but found strength in the Savior. How did relying on Him help you keep going?
- Think of a time when reading the scriptures or listening to a talk brought you unexpected relief during a trial. How did that moment help you feel the Savior’s presence?
- Think of a time when you carried a burden of guilt or regret and found relief through repentance and Christ’s Atonement. How did that experience lift you out of your affliction?
- Think of a time when someone else helped you feel the Savior’s love during a difficult moment. How did their kindness remind you of Christ’s power to heal and uplift?
- Think of a time when you received priesthood blessings or participated in an ordinance that brought you peace in affliction. How did that experience deepen your testimony of the Savior’s power?
- Think of a time when you overcame a fear, weakness, or personal challenge by trusting in Christ. How did He help you rise above your struggles?
- Think of a time when you felt hope return after a period of darkness or uncertainty. How did the Savior’s influence help you move forward with faith?
I have an important role to play in God’s kingdom.
Engaging Questions:
- Doctrine and Covenants 25:3 tells Emma Smith that she is an “elect lady.” What does this teach you about God’s personal role for each of us in His kingdom?
- How does knowing that God has a specific role for you in His kingdom affect the way you approach your daily life?
- In Doctrine and Covenants 24:7–9, the Lord gives different assignments to different individuals. What does this teach us about the diversity of roles in the Church?
- Have you ever felt God guiding you toward a specific responsibility or purpose? What was that experience like?
- How can you discover and develop your unique talents to better serve in God’s kingdom?
- What are some ways you can support and encourage others in fulfilling their roles in the Church and in their families?
- Doctrine and Covenants 26:1 teaches about “common consent” in the Church. How does this principle help everyone play a part in God’s work?
- What challenges might prevent someone from recognizing their role in God’s kingdom? How can they overcome those challenges?
- Why do you think God gives different people different callings and responsibilities in His Church? How does this help the Church grow?
- What is one thing you can do this week to better fulfill the role God has for you in His kingdom?
Object Lessons:
1. The Body and Its Parts (Each Member Is Needed)
Materials:
- A glove or a simple diagram of a body
- Labels or small cards with body parts (eyes, hands, feet, heart, etc.)
Lesson Overview:
Show a glove and explain that each finger represents different roles in God’s kingdom. If one finger doesn’t work, the whole hand struggles. Likewise, if we remove one part of the body (like the eyes or feet), the body can’t function fully. Each person plays a vital role in the Church—whether as a leader, teacher, friend, or example.
Discussion Points:
- What would happen if one part of the body refused to work?
- How does this relate to our individual roles in God’s kingdom?
- What can we do to magnify our unique gifts in serving God?
2. The Puzzle Pieces (We All Have a Unique Place)
Materials:
- A jigsaw puzzle (with at least one missing piece)
Lesson Overview:
Have participants work together to assemble a puzzle. When they get to the missing piece, ask what happens when a piece is lost. Explain that each person is a unique part of God’s plan, and if we don’t do our part, the picture is incomplete.
Discussion Points:
- How does God use each of us to build His kingdom?
- What happens when someone thinks their piece isn’t important?
- How can we help others find and fulfill their role in the gospel?
3. The Orchestra (Every Instrument Matters)
Materials:
- A picture or video of an orchestra
- A single musical instrument (optional)
Lesson Overview:
Explain that in an orchestra, each instrument contributes to the harmony. If one person refuses to play, the music sounds incomplete. Similarly, in God’s kingdom, each person has a specific role that adds to the beauty and strength of the Church.
Discussion Points:
- What happens when one instrument is missing or plays off-key?
- How does this apply to our individual efforts in the Church?
- What are some ways we can “play our part” in God’s kingdom?
4. The Candles or Lightbulbs (Sharing Our Unique Light)
Materials:
- Several candles or small lightbulbs
Lesson Overview:
Light one candle and explain that one person’s efforts can shine brightly. Then, light more candles to show how each additional light makes the room even brighter. Just as one candle cannot light a whole room alone, God’s work requires everyone’s light to shine together.
Discussion Points:
- How does each person’s “light” contribute to the overall brightness?
- What happens when we hide our talents or refuse to shine?
- How can we encourage others to let their light shine in God’s kingdom?
5. The Brick Wall (Building God’s Kingdom Together)
Materials:
- A few stackable blocks (LEGO, Jenga, or bricks)
Lesson Overview:
Have each participant place a block to build a wall or tower. If one person refuses to add their block, the structure remains unfinished. Explain that in God’s kingdom, each person is like a brick—without every piece, the building is weaker or incomplete.
Discussion Points:
- What happens when someone chooses not to contribute?
- How does working together make us stronger?
- What are some ways we can actively build God’s kingdom?
6. The Spoon and the Fork (Different but Essential)
Materials:
- A spoon and a fork
Lesson Overview:
Hold up a spoon and a fork and ask, “Which is more important?” Some might say a spoon, others a fork. But the truth is, they serve different purposes—a spoon is great for soup, but not for spaghetti! Just as these tools have unique uses, God gives each of us different strengths to serve in His kingdom.
Discussion Points:
- What happens when we compare our role to someone else’s?
- Why does God give different talents to different people?
- How can we use our own talents to serve others?
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you were given a calling or responsibility that felt overwhelming. How did the Lord help you rise to the task and fulfill your role in His kingdom?
- Think of a time when you felt prompted to serve someone in a way that made a difference. How did that experience help you recognize your unique role in the Lord’s work?
- Think of a time when someone expressed appreciation for your service, testimony, or example. How did that moment confirm that the Lord is working through you?
- Think of a time when you felt unsure about your worth or abilities but found reassurance in knowing God had a purpose for you. How did He help you see your value in His kingdom?
- Think of a time when you witnessed someone else discover their role in God’s work. How did their example inspire you to trust in the Lord’s plan for you?
- Think of a time when you used your talents or skills to bless others in a church or community setting. How did that experience help you see that God needs you just as you are?
- Think of a time when you received revelation about your personal mission or purpose in life. How did that insight change your perspective on your role in God’s kingdom?
- Think of a time when a challenge or hardship helped prepare you for a future opportunity to serve. How did the Lord use that experience to shape your ability to bless others?
- Think of a time when you felt inspired by the examples of early Church members who played vital roles in building the kingdom. How did their faith help you see your own potential to contribute?
- Think of a time when you felt joy and fulfillment in serving the Lord, even in a small or simple way. How did that experience confirm to you that every effort matters in His work?
“Continue in the spirit of meekness.”
Engaging Questions:
- What does it mean to you to “continue in the spirit of meekness” (Doctrine and Covenants 25:14)? How can meekness be a strength?
- How does Jesus Christ exemplify meekness, and what can we learn from His example?
- Why do you think the Lord emphasized meekness to Emma Smith in Doctrine and Covenants 25? How does this counsel apply to us today?
- What is the difference between meekness and weakness? How can being meek actually make us stronger?
- How can practicing meekness improve our relationships with family, friends, and others?
- What challenges make it difficult to be meek, and how can we overcome them?
- Have you ever seen an example of meekness in action? How did that person inspire you?
- How does being meek help us receive personal revelation and draw closer to Christ?
- What are some daily habits or practices that can help us develop greater meekness?
- What is one way you can apply the principle of meekness in your life this week?
Object Lessons:
1. The Soft Clay vs. The Hard Rock (Being Teachable)
Materials:
- A piece of soft clay or playdough
- A small rock or hardened clay
Lesson Overview:
Show the soft clay and shape it into something useful, like a cup or heart. Then, try to reshape the rock—it won’t change. Explain that a meek heart is like the soft clay, willing to be molded by God. If we become hardened with pride, we resist the Lord’s teachings and cannot grow spiritually.
Discussion Points:
- How does being teachable help us grow?
- What happens when we become hardened or stubborn?
- How can we allow God to shape us into better disciples?
2. The Gentle vs. Harsh Touch (Responding with Meekness)
Materials:
- A feather
- A wooden stick or ruler
Lesson Overview:
Lightly touch someone’s arm with the feather, then press with the stick. Ask, “Which one felt better?” Explain that when we speak or act with meekness, it feels like the feather—soft, kind, and comforting. When we act with pride or harshness, it feels like the stick—rigid, forceful, and unpleasant.
Discussion Points:
- How does meekness affect the way we speak to others?
- Why is it sometimes hard to respond with gentleness and patience?
- What are some Christlike ways we can react in difficult situations?
3. The Full vs. Empty Cup (Making Room for God)
Materials:
- Two cups (one full of water, one empty)
- A pitcher of fresh water
Lesson Overview:
Try pouring fresh water into the already full cup—it overflows and wastes the water. Then, pour into the empty cup, which is ready to receive more. Explain that when we are full of pride and our own opinions, there is no room for God’s wisdom. But when we are humble and meek, we can receive His guidance and blessings.
Discussion Points:
- How can we empty ourselves of pride to make room for God?
- Why does God bless those who are humble and willing to learn?
- What does being meek look like in everyday life?
4. The Quiet Strength of a Seed (Power in Humility)
Materials:
- A seed
- A rock
- A cup of soil
Lesson Overview:
Hold up a seed and a rock, asking, “Which one seems stronger?” The rock appears solid and unbreakable, while the seed is small and fragile. However, when planted, the seed grows into a mighty tree, while the rock remains unchanged. Meekness may seem weak to the world, but it leads to true spiritual strength and growth.
Discussion Points:
- Why does growth come from humility and patience?
- How does meekness allow us to develop real spiritual power?
- How did Jesus Christ show power through meekness?
5. The Controlled Horse (Meekness is Strength Under Control)
Materials:
- A picture of a wild horse vs. a trained horse
- A small rope or bridle (optional)
Lesson Overview:
Explain that a wild horse has power but no control. A trained horse still has great strength but is guided by the rider. Meekness is not weakness—it is power under control, just like a strong horse that submits to the master’s guidance.
Discussion Points:
- How does meekness mean choosing to follow God’s will?
- Why does controlling our strength and emotions show true power?
- How can we develop meekness while still standing for what is right?
6. The Whisper vs. the Shout (Listening with Meekness)
Materials:
- Noisy background sound (a phone playing loud music, for example)
- A whispered message
Lesson Overview:
Play a loud noise and try whispering a short phrase while people listen. Most won’t be able to hear. Then, turn off the noise and whisper again—they’ll hear it clearly. Explain that when our minds are full of pride, distractions, and loud opinions, we cannot hear God’s guidance. When we are meek and quiet, we can hear the Spirit.
Discussion Points:
- How does meekness help us listen to God and others?
- Why is it important to quiet our hearts and remove distractions?
- How does pride block revelation, while meekness invites it?
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you chose to be meek in a difficult situation instead of reacting with frustration or pride. How did responding with humility bring peace or resolution?
- Think of a time when you saw someone else demonstrate meekness in a challenging moment. How did their example inspire you to be more Christlike?
- Think of a time when you received correction or feedback with a meek heart. How did your willingness to learn and change bless you?
- Think of a time when you served in a calling or responsibility that required patience and humility. How did choosing meekness help you be more effective in the Lord’s work?
- Think of a time when you set aside your own desires to support or uplift someone else. How did putting their needs first help you grow spiritually?
- Think of a time when you prayed for help to be more humble and saw the Lord shape your heart. How did that experience strengthen your relationship with Him?
- Think of a time when you faced criticism or misunderstanding but chose to respond with kindness. How did that decision bring unexpected blessings?
- Think of a time when you recognized that true strength comes from meekness and submission to God’s will. How did that realization change the way you approach challenges?
- Think of a time when you felt prompted to listen rather than speak in a conversation. How did that moment teach you about the power of meekness?
- Think of a time when you saw the Savior’s example of meekness reflected in your own life. How did following His example bring you closer to Him?
“Lay aside the things of this world, and seek for the things of a better.”
Engaging Questions:
- What do you think it means to “lay aside the things of this world, and seek for the things of a better” (Doctrine and Covenants 25:10)?
- What are some worldly distractions that can make it difficult to focus on the “things of a better” in today’s society?
- How do you feel when you prioritize spiritual things over worldly things? Can you think of an example in your life?
- How does seeking the “things of a better” bring greater peace and happiness than seeking after material success?
- What are some practical ways to balance the demands of daily life while still focusing on eternal things?
- Have you ever had to make a choice between something worldly and something spiritual? How did you decide, and what was the outcome?
- What does Doctrine and Covenants 23–26 teach about how individuals like Emma Smith and early Church members sought after eternal things? How can their examples inspire you?
- Why do you think it’s sometimes hard to let go of worldly concerns? What helps you keep an eternal perspective?
- How can focusing on Christ help us resist the pull of worldly distractions and temptations?
- What is one specific action you can take this week to seek after “the things of a better” and strengthen your relationship with the Lord?
Object Lessons:
1. The Hands Full Object Lesson (Letting Go to Receive)
Materials:
- A small bag or basket of “worldly things” (fake money, phone, toy car, trophy, etc.)
- A set of scriptures or a picture of Christ
Lesson Overview:
Give a volunteer the bag of “worldly things” to hold tightly. Then, offer them the scriptures or picture of Christ and ask them to take it without dropping anything. They’ll struggle. Then, invite them to let go of the worldly objects so they can fully embrace the things of a better world.
Discussion Points:
- Why is it hard to let go of worldly distractions?
- What are some things we might need to release in our lives?
- How does seeking spiritual things bring us greater happiness?
2. The Temporary vs. Eternal Treasure
Materials:
- A shiny box filled with temporary things (candy, fake money, plastic jewelry)
- A plain box with a picture of the temple, scriptures, or a heart labeled “eternal blessings”
Lesson Overview:
Show the shiny box first and let participants open it, revealing that the contents are temporary (candy gets eaten, fake money is worthless, etc.). Then, open the plain box and discuss how eternal treasures (faith, family, Christ, temple covenants) last forever.
Discussion Points:
- What are some “shiny” distractions in the world that don’t last?
- How do we recognize what has eternal value?
- What choices can we make daily to seek for the things of a better?
3. The Dirty vs. Clear Water (Filtering Out the Worldly)
Materials:
- Two glasses: one with clear water and one with dirty, cloudy water
- A water filter or a clean cup
Lesson Overview:
Hold up the dirty water and explain that it represents worldly distractions and sin. The clean water represents spiritual things. Ask: “Which would you rather drink?” Pour the dirty water through a filter (or replace it with clean water) to illustrate how we must filter out worldly distractions and focus on things that bring purity and peace.
Discussion Points:
- What are some worldly influences that cloud our spirits?
- How can we filter out distractions and focus on Christ?
- What blessings come when we prioritize spiritual things?
4. The Balloon and the Weights (Letting Go of the World to Rise Higher)
Materials:
- A helium balloon
- Small weights or rocks tied to the string
Lesson Overview:
Hold up the balloon with weights attached and ask, “Why isn’t it floating?” Explain that the weights represent worldly concerns (greed, comparison, pride, sin). Cut or remove the weights, allowing the balloon to rise, just as we rise spiritually when we let go of worldly distractions.
Discussion Points:
- What “weights” in our lives keep us from spiritual growth?
- How does focusing on eternal things help us feel lighter and more joyful?
- What changes can we make to seek for the things of a better?
5. The Distracted Runner (Keeping Our Eyes on Christ)
Materials:
- A picture of a finish line or a runner
- Small objects to distract the “runner” (toys, phone, money, etc.)
Lesson Overview:
Have a volunteer pretend to run toward a finish line while others hold out distractions to tempt them. If they stop for distractions, they lose time. If they stay focused, they reach the goal. Compare this to our spiritual race—we must avoid distractions to reach eternal life with God.
Discussion Points:
- What are some “distractions” that slow down our spiritual progress?
- How can we keep our focus on Christ and eternal goals?
- What does it mean to run the race with faith and endurance?
6. The Weighed-Down Backpack (Carrying What Matters Most)
Materials:
- A backpack
- Heavy items labeled with worldly distractions (money, social media, fame, etc.)
- Lighter items labeled with spiritual priorities (prayer, scripture study, service)
Lesson Overview:
Have a volunteer carry the heavy backpack and walk around. Then, remove worldly distractions and replace them with lighter spiritual things. The person will feel relief and freedom, illustrating how focusing on eternal things makes our journey easier.
Discussion Points:
- How do worldly concerns weigh us down spiritually?
- How does focusing on Christ bring us peace and joy?
- What are some changes we can make to lighten our spiritual load?
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you had to choose between a worldly pursuit and a spiritual priority. How did putting the Lord first bless your life?
- Think of a time when you simplified your life to focus more on your relationship with God. How did letting go of unnecessary distractions bring you greater peace and purpose?
- Think of a time when you sacrificed something—time, money, entertainment, or status—to follow Christ. How did that decision strengthen your faith and testimony?
- Think of a time when you resisted the temptation to seek worldly approval and instead chose to follow God’s will. How did that experience help you feel closer to the Lord?
- Think of a time when material possessions or personal ambitions felt less important because of a spiritual experience. How did that moment help you refocus on eternal things?
- Think of a time when you chose to spend time in the temple, in scripture study, or in service instead of pursuing something worldly. How did that choice bring you joy and perspective?
- Think of a time when you overcame a worldly habit or mindset that was holding you back spiritually. How did seeking “the things of a better” change your heart?
- Think of a time when you felt weighed down by the pressures of the world but found relief in turning to the Savior. How did trusting in Him help you rise above worldly concerns?
- Think of a time when you taught your family or someone else about the importance of seeking eternal things. How did sharing that lesson strengthen your own commitment to follow Christ?
- Think of a time when you saw the difference between worldly happiness and true, lasting joy. How did that realization help you prioritize spiritual growth over temporary rewards?
The Lord delights in my “song of the heart.”
Engaging Questions:
- What do you think it means that “the song of the righteous is a prayer unto [the Lord]” (Doctrine and Covenants 25:12)?
- How has music, whether singing or listening, helped you feel closer to the Lord?
- What is a hymn or song that has strengthened your testimony? How has it influenced you?
- Why do you think the Lord delights in the “song of the heart” rather than just the quality of a person’s singing?
- How can uplifting music bring peace and comfort during difficult times? Have you had an experience like this?
- Emma Smith was called to compile a hymnbook for the early Church (Doctrine and Covenants 25:11). Why do you think hymns and sacred music are such an important part of worship?
- What role does music play in your personal worship, whether at home, at church, or in other settings?
- How can you use music to invite the Spirit into your life and the lives of others?
- If you could share a song or hymn with someone who is struggling, which one would you choose and why?
- What is one way you can make sacred music a greater part of your daily life this week?
Object Lessons:
1. The Out-of-Tune Instrument (Sincere Effort Matters More Than Perfection)
Materials:
- A musical instrument (piano, guitar, or even a simple recorder)
- A volunteer who can play, or someone who doesn’t know how to play
Lesson Overview:
Have someone play a beautiful melody, then have another person (who may not know how) play random notes. Ask: “Which one does the Lord love more?” Explain that the Lord doesn’t measure our song by skill, but by sincerity—He delights in the intent of our hearts.
Discussion Points:
- Why does God value effort over perfection?
- How can we offer a “song of the heart” in our daily worship?
- What are some ways we can express love for God beyond music?
2. The Whispered vs. Loud Praise (Heartfelt Worship Matters)
Materials:
- A way to play soft, reverent music
- A recording or example of loud, random noise
Lesson Overview:
Play soft, reverent music and then play random, loud noise (such as static or chaotic sounds). Ask: “Which one is more enjoyable to listen to?” Compare this to how God loves pure, heartfelt expressions of worship rather than empty noise or insincere actions.
Discussion Points:
- How does true worship come from the heart rather than just habit?
- What does it mean to offer a “song of the heart” beyond music?
- How can we make our prayers and worship more heartfelt?
3. The Unique Voices in a Choir (Every Offering Is Valued)
Materials:
- A small group to sing a simple song together
- Different people taking turns singing solo
Lesson Overview:
Have individuals take turns singing a simple line, then sing all together in harmony. Discuss how each voice is unique, but all are beautiful to God. Even if someone’s voice is not perfect, it is still precious to the Lord when offered sincerely.
Discussion Points:
- Why does God love all voices and offerings, no matter how small?
- How does worshipping together strengthen our faith?
- What other ways can we “sing” to the Lord outside of music?
4. The Empty vs. Full Songbook (Worship Comes from the Heart)
Materials:
- A hymnbook or printed song lyrics
- A blank book or empty pages
Lesson Overview:
Show a hymnbook and a blank book. Ask: “Which one has songs?” Then explain that a book alone does not make music—the song must come from within. Similarly, our worship isn’t just about following words—it’s about singing with real intent.
Discussion Points:
- How can our daily lives be a song to the Lord?
- What happens when we worship just out of routine instead of from the heart?
- What can we do to make our worship more meaningful?
5. The Broken but Beautiful Instrument (God Loves Imperfect Worship)
Materials:
- A slightly damaged instrument (or a picture of one)
- A working instrument
Lesson Overview:
Show the damaged instrument and explain that, while it may not work perfectly, it can still produce beautiful music. Compare this to how our lives may not be perfect, but our sincere efforts are still valuable to God.
Discussion Points:
- Why does God accept imperfect efforts with love?
- How can we turn our struggles into a “song” for the Lord?
- What are ways we can offer worship in our own unique way?
6. The Candle vs. The Spotlight (Humble Offerings Shine Bright)
Materials:
- A small candle
- A bright spotlight or flashlight
Lesson Overview:
Light the small candle and shine a bright flashlight. Ask: “Which light does God appreciate more?” The answer is both—because the Lord values sincere, small efforts just as much as big ones. Even a quiet song of the heart can brighten the world.
Discussion Points:
- How can we offer our small talents in God’s service?
- Why does God value simple, humble expressions of love and worship?
- How does expressing gratitude to God become a song in our hearts?
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when a hymn or spiritual song brought you peace during a difficult moment. How did that music help you feel the Lord’s love?
- Think of a time when you sang a hymn or Primary song and felt the Spirit strongly. How did that experience deepen your connection with the Lord?
- Think of a time when you felt inspired to sing, hum, or listen to uplifting music, and it changed your mood or perspective. How did that moment remind you of God’s presence?
- Think of a time when a song helped you understand a gospel principle in a new way. How did music help strengthen your testimony?
- Think of a time when you heard or participated in sacred music during a church meeting or temple visit. How did the music enhance your worship experience?
- Think of a time when you used music to help comfort or uplift someone else. How did sharing your “song of the heart” bring joy or peace to them?
- Think of a time when you struggled with prayer but felt closer to God by singing or listening to a hymn. How did music help you communicate with Him?
- Think of a time when you felt the Lord’s delight in your talents, whether through singing, playing an instrument, or simply enjoying sacred music. How did that realization inspire gratitude?
- Think of a time when you were reminded of an important gospel truth because of a song or hymn that came to mind unexpectedly. How did that strengthen your testimony?
- Think of a time when you saw how music helped bring unity, joy, or peace to a family gathering, church meeting, or personal worship. How did that experience show you that the Lord delights in music that praises Him?
“All things shall be done by common consent in the church.”
Engaging Questions:
- What do you think “common consent” means in the Church, and why is it important (Doctrine and Covenants 26:2)?
- How does sustaining Church leaders or members in callings help build unity within the Church?
- Have you ever felt the Spirit when sustaining someone in a Church calling? What did you learn from that experience?
- Why do you think the Lord wants Church decisions to be made with the support of its members rather than by one person alone?
- How does the principle of common consent reflect our agency and personal responsibility in the Lord’s Church?
- What should we do if we have questions or concerns when asked to sustain a Church leader or decision?
- In what ways can members participate in Church decisions beyond simply raising their hands to sustain leaders?
- How does common consent in the Church compare to how decisions are made in other organizations or governments? Why is it significant?
- How can sustaining and supporting Church leaders strengthen your faith and testimony?
- What is one way you can show greater support for those who serve in callings in your ward or branch this week?
Object Lessons:
1. The Tug-of-War Lesson (Working Together in the Church)
Materials:
- A rope for a tug-of-war game
- Two groups (if available)
Lesson Overview:
Divide the group into two sides for a tug-of-war game. Have them pull against each other. Then, ask everyone to pull in the same direction instead of against one another. When united, the effort is easier and more productive. Explain that in the Church, decisions are made by common consent, meaning we work together rather than against each other.
Discussion Points:
- What happens when members pull in different directions?
- How does unity help the Church function more effectively?
- Why does God want us to participate in decision-making together?
2. The Puzzle Pieces (Everyone Plays a Role in Common Consent)
Materials:
- A jigsaw puzzle (with at least one missing piece)
Lesson Overview:
Have participants assemble the puzzle together. When the puzzle is almost finished, keep one piece hidden and ask, “Is the picture complete?” Explain that in the Church, everyone’s participation is needed for the work to be whole. When we participate in sustaining and decision-making, we help the Church function as God intended.
Discussion Points:
- Why is everyone’s input important in Church decisions?
- What happens when we choose not to participate?
- How does sustaining leaders and voting in the Church help us grow?
3. The Rowing Boat (Moving Forward Together)
Materials:
- A picture of a rowboat
- Two oars (or just a visual representation)
Lesson Overview:
Explain that if one oar rows forward while the other rows backward, the boat spins in circles. However, when both oars row in the same direction, the boat moves forward. In the Church, common consent means working together so that decisions move the Church forward, not in circles.
Discussion Points:
- Why does working together in unity help the Church move forward?
- What happens when members refuse to sustain leaders or participate?
- How can we align our efforts with God’s will in the Church?
4. The Team Vote (Making Decisions as One)
Materials:
- A simple choice to vote on (e.g., two hymn options, two treat options)
- Slips of paper for voting or a simple show of hands
Lesson Overview:
Let the group vote on something simple, like choosing between two hymns or two treats. Count the votes and follow the majority decision. Explain that in the Church, we sustain leaders and make decisions by common consent. Even if our preferred choice isn’t chosen, we still support the outcome for the good of the group.
Discussion Points:
- How does sustaining leaders and decisions show unity?
- Why is voting and participating in the Church important?
- How does common consent reflect God’s desire for agency?
5. The Orchestra (Every Voice Matters in Common Consent)
Materials:
- A picture of an orchestra
- A simple instrument (if available)
Lesson Overview:
Explain that in an orchestra, every musician must follow the conductor’s lead to create beautiful harmony. If one musician refuses to play, the performance isn’t complete. In the Church, we all participate through common consent, ensuring that the Church runs smoothly like a well-played symphony.
Discussion Points:
- What happens when one person refuses to participate?
- How does supporting decisions in the Church create harmony?
- Why is everyone’s participation valuable in God’s plan?
6. The Brick Wall (Each Member Strengthens the Church)
Materials:
- Building blocks (LEGO, Jenga, or bricks)
Lesson Overview:
Build a small wall or tower, explaining that each block represents a member’s participation. If you remove some blocks, the structure becomes weaker. When everyone participates in common consent, the Church remains strong and unified.
Discussion Points:
- How does each person’s willingness to sustain leaders strengthen the Church?
- What happens when some members choose not to participate?
- How can we help each other feel valued in decision-making?
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you participated in sustaining a Church leader or accepting a calling. How did that experience help you understand the importance of common consent in the Church?
- Think of a time when you received a calling and felt the support of your ward or branch. How did knowing that others sustained you strengthen your ability to serve?
- Think of a time when you had an opportunity to sustain someone else in a calling. How did supporting them help you feel more connected to the Church and the Lord’s work?
- Think of a time when a ward council, family council, or other Church meeting helped bring unity in decision-making. How did seeing the principle of common consent in action strengthen your testimony?
- Think of a time when you saw the power of working together as a Church community. How did participating in a group decision or project help you appreciate the Lord’s organization?
- Think of a time when you voiced your thoughts or concerns in a Church setting and felt heard. How did that experience help you understand the role of agency and unity in the Church?
- Think of a time when a Church policy or decision required sustaining faith. How did choosing to trust the Lord’s process deepen your testimony?
- Think of a time when you felt inspired while raising your hand to sustain a prophet, apostle, or other Church leader. How did that simple act increase your connection to the Lord’s work?
- Think of a time when you helped plan or participate in a ward or branch decision, such as an activity, calling, or policy change. How did working together through common consent bless the outcome?
- Think of a time when you realized that being part of a ward or branch was about more than just attending—it was about belonging and participating. How did that realization help you feel more engaged in the Church?
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