Lesson 46: Ether 12-15

 November 23-29
Ether 12-15
"By faith all things are fulfilled" 

Materials: weights. objects of varying weight
Opening Song: "Lord, I would follow thee" (Hymnal, 220)
Opening Prayer:
Scripture: Ether 12: 27

Attention Activity:

Set out a series of objects ranging from light to heavy (if you have weights, use them). Have family members come up and pick up the different objects. Which items are heavier? Lighter? Why do people use weights? People use weights to make their muscles and bodies stronger. When people lift weights they break down the fibers in their muscles. When the muscles recuperate, they are stronger and are able to handle more weight the next time they are used. Exercising our muscles is good for our bodies.  

Lesson:

Before we exercise, our bodies are weak. This is also like what happens to us here on earth. We each have our weaknesses. Some of us might be lazy, or have tempers. Others might have trouble following rules or saying sorry. None of us are perfect. Think about your own weaknesses. What are some areas that you struggle? 

Read Ether 12: 23-24. What did Moroni think was his weakness? Moroni didn't think that he was a good writer and he feared that people would mock his words. The Lord answered Moroni saying that the fools that mock Moroni's writing will not be able to take advantage of his weakness because Moroni is meek. What does is mean to be meek? ("Godfearing, righteous, humble, teachable, and patient under suffering. The meek are willing to follow gospel teachings. " from churchofjesuschrist.org, Guide to the Scriptures, "meek, meekness")

Read Ether 12:27. Why does God give us our weaknesses? The Lord says He gives us our weaknesses so that we may become humble. If we are humble and have faith in Him, He can help us become strong by overcoming our weaknesses. Just like when we exercise, we start out weak. We make mistakes. The weights are like the atonement. As we use the weights, or repent, we become stronger and are more prepared to face upcoming challenges and obstacles. This can only happen though if we first show humility by admitting that we need to change and second, showing faith by believing in the grace of God. 

Activity: "Grace" Exercises

Do the following exercises with your family to exemplify how weak things can be made strong.

G- Giant leap x5
R- Run in place for 30 sec.
A- Arm Circles x 15
C- Crunches x 20
E- Elbow to knees x 20

Closing song: "I stand all amazed" (Hymnal, 193)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: Healthy frozen peanut butter banana bites recipe