After the Church was organized in April 1830, the Saints immediately faced intense persecution. Despite these challenges, the Savior continued to strengthen the Church and provide personal counsel to those who earnestly desired to know His will. This lesson can help students feel that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ know them and will provide guidance for their personal lives.
Possible Learning Activities
Asking for guidance
Who knows you best?
What do they know about you?
What do they not know about you?
The Lord knows you
Joseph Smith and others sought the guidance of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ concerning their roles in the newly restored Church. Doctrine and Covenants 23–24 contains the Savior’s response to their earnest desire to receive divine guidance.
How does this evidence impact your understanding of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?
Sister Cristina B. Franco, who served as Second Counselor in the Primary General Presidency, taught:
Heavenly Father also knows you. He knows where you are, and who you are, and what you need. He hears and answers your prayers. No matter how lonely you feel, He’s always there. You are never alone. You can always turn to Him. (Cristina B. Franco, “Heavenly Father Knows You,” Friend, June 2018, 16)
In what ways does God give us counsel according to our desires and circumstances?
They can guide my life
After students complete their study, invite them to share the evidence they found that the Lord knew these individuals.
You could show the video “Heavenly Father Knows Me” (3:18) to help students prepare to think of and share their own experiences.
The following questions can help students deepen their understanding of and feelings about the Lord’s awareness of them. Consider providing time for students to write their answers in their study journals. Some students might feel that the Lord does not know them. Ensure each student that He does, and encourage them to keep seeking the Lord’s help and guidance.
What evidence have you seen that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ know you and are aware of you?
How has this influenced your relationship with Them?
What counsel do you think Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ would give you in your current circumstances?
Invite willing students to share experiences they or others they know have had which helped them know that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are aware of them. Remind students to not share anything too personal or sacred.
Consider bearing personal testimony or sharing an experience that illustrates how Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ know each of us and will give us counsel according to our desires and circumstances.