August 29- September 4
Proverbs 1-4; 15-16; 22; 31; Ecclesiastes 1-3; 11-12
"The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom"
Materials: whiteboard and marker, print out, scissors, 6 envelopes
Opening Song: "Where Love Is" (Children's Songbook, 138)
Opening Prayer:
Attention Activity: On a whiteboard or piece of paper, play a round of hangman with the phrase "God-fearing." What do you think it means to be god-fearing? Do you think it's a good thing or a bad thing?
Lesson:
This week we will be reading in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. "Proverbs can be seen as a collection of wise sayings from a loving parent, whose main message is that blessings of peace and prosperity come to those who seek wisdom--particularly the wisdom that God offers" (Come Follow Me for Individuals and Families, Old Testament 2022, pg. 158). Ecclesiastes is told through the perspective of a preacher and reflects on some of the deepest problems of life.
Throughout Proverbs and Ecclesiastes we are told to "fear God," but that doesn't mean that God is some scary guy up in the sky. So what does it mean? Have a family member read the quote from Elder Bednar below.
“Unlike worldly fear that creates alarm and anxiety, godly fear is a source of peace, assurance, and confidence. … [It] encompasses a deep feeling of reverence, respect, and awe for the Lord Jesus Christ; obedience to His commandments; and anticipation of the Final Judgment and justice at His hand. … Godly fear is loving and trusting in Him” (“Therefore They Hushed Their Fears,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 48–49).
In other words to fear God, is to respect, obey, and love God and to show Him reverence. Write "respect", "obey", "love", and "reverence" up on the whiteboard.
Activity: Scripture Envelopes
Directions: Print and cut out the cards below. Place each card into an envelope. Set the envelopes in front of your family on the table or floor. Have each family member choose an envelope and read the verse inside. What other words can we substitute "fear" for to better understand each verse? What does each verse teach us about what it means to fear God?
Today for our closing song, we will sing "How Great Thou Art." This hymn encapsulates what it means to be a God-fearing person. As we study in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes this week, if we keep our hearts open and in tune with the spirit, we will be able to learn more about being God-fearing. That is, we will learn more about what it means to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ and how to honor and obey Heavenly Father. Bear your testimony.
Closing Song: "How Great Thou Art" (Hymns, 86)
Closing Prayer:
Refreshment: Mint Chocolate Chip Cake recipe here
