Search the Scriptures

By Judy Edwards

In an October general conference, Sister Grassli, the Primary General President, reported: “Nine-year-old Matt spoke in church about something he had learned from the scriptures that brought him peace. He said, ‘When my father told our family that we would be moving from Denver to Wisconsin, my mother reminded us of Lehi’s family. Like them, I was leaving the only home I had known, all my friends, my school, my ward. Luckily we were able to bring all our possessions with us, though they were in storage for three months, and we missed having a house and our “precious things.”

“‘My mother reminded us of how Nephi accepted this challenge—willingly—knowing that the Lord would “prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them” (See 1 Ne. 3:7.)

“‘I have learned that I can do without things, but not without my family. My brotheres and sisters and I have tried to be more like Nephi than his complaining brothers. I am grateful for the things that the Book of Mormon teaches us.’” (Ensign, November 1988, page 79.)

Matt was comforted by the story of Lehi’s family from the Book of Mormon. As you read or listen to stories from the scriptures, which of the stories bring you peace?

Instructions

As you read the scriptures this month, color the space(s) in the picture with that day’s date. When the page is completed, add it to your Book of Peace.

Illustrated by Dick Brown

Sharing Time Ideas

1. Discuss the special peace that comes from the Book of Mormon (see 2 Ne. 3:12). President Benson said: “The Book of Mormon offers so much that broadens our understandings of the doctrines of salvation. Without it, much of what is taught in other scriptures would not be nearly so plain and precious.” (Ensign, Nov. 1986, p. 6.) Help children discover Bible and corresponding Book of Mormon scriptures that together clarify the teachings of the Lord. Examples: John 10:16; 3 Ne. 15:16–17; 3 Ne. 21; Matt. 5:3; 3 Ne. 12:3; Matt. 5:6; 3 Ne. 12:6; Deut. 33:4; Jarom 1:11; Mosiah 13:28, 30.

2. Help children understand that people throughout history have found joy and peace in the scriptures. Examples: Ezra (Bible Dictionary—Ezra; Ezra 7:10; Neh. 8:2–3; Friend, July 1994, p. 48), Nephi (2 Ne. 4:15), disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:27, 32), Joseph Smith (JS—H 1:11–12), President Ezra Taft Benson (Ensign, May 1989, p. 81).

3. Have each class role-play a story from the scriptures. Let the other children guess the story and the message of peace it contains.

4. Put into a bag small items symbolizing scripture stories of peace that you have discussed. As a child draws an item from the bag, have him identity or tell the story it reminds him of.

5. Sing “Search, Ponder, and Pray” (Children’s Songbook, p. 109), then tell the story of Elder Marion G. Romney and his son (see Merrie Miss B/Blazer B/Sunday School Course 11 manual, p. 22). Invite the children to share their own experiences of feeling peace through scripture study.

6. Invite a member of the bishopric/branch presidency to share a personal experience of gaining peace from reading the scriptures.