Lesson 45: Daniel 1-6

October 31- November 6
Daniel 1-6
"There is no other God that can deliver"

Materials: For the Strength of Youth *(if possible, have 1 pamphlet per family member to keep in the scriptures a future reference), video (link below), paper, coloring supplies,  
Opening Song: "I want to live the gospel" (Children's Songbook, 148)
Opening Prayer: 

Attention Activity: Watch "Daniel and His Friends" Old Testament Story video from the church website. 

Lesson:

In the book of Daniel, we will read stories about Daniel and his friends: Shadrach, Meshack, and Abed-nego. Daniel was a young man when Israel was taken captive by the Babylonians. Daniel was a man of great faith who showed time and time again that nothing would stop him from keeping the commandments. How did Daniel keep God's commandments in the video? 

At that time, jews were commanded to only eat and drink certain types of foods and drinks. Daniel and his friends did not want to break this commandment. The Lord blessed Daniel with added strength because he was willing to keep His commandments even though it was hard. Daniel practiced having high standards. 

What are personal standards? Standards are rules of behavior we set for ourselves that reflect our faith in God. For example, we do not take the Lord's name in vain by saying popular phrases like, "Oh my ___." Personal standards can be broken down into a number of different areas. The Church has a pamphlet called The For Strength of Youth that describes standards the Lord wants us to have. The pamphlet is geared towards the youth of the church, but it can be helpful for all members. 

(If possible, give all family members a copy of the For Strength of Youth  pamphlet and have them look at it.)

Activity: Pass out paper and coloring supplies. Have each family member pick a section in the For Strength of Youth and have them read it. Each family member will then use the paper and crayons to make a poster or draw a picture depicting what his or her section discussed. Take turns sharing everyones picture with others. 

This week, as we read Daniel, look for times Daniel keeps his high standards. For example, think back to the video. What were some of Daniel's personal standards you saw in the video (Daniel ate drank water and ate food that was good for him, instead of the wine and meat the King was offering. Daniel chose good friends who held high standards like he did. Daniel practiced faith in the Lord as he kept the commandments.) 

Bear your testimony on how your personal standards have blessed your life. 

Closing Song: "I will be valiant" (Children's Songbook, 162)
Closing Prayer: 
Refreshment: Brown sugar maple cookies recipe here