Proverbs 1–4; 15–16; 22; 31; Ecclesiastes 1–3; 11–12

Proverbs 1–4; 15–16; 22; 31; Ecclesiastes 1–3; 11–12

Overview

Among other things, the book of Proverbs encourages us to seek for and apply wisdom in our lives. It also helps us realize the importance of trusting in the direction of the Lord over our own wisdom and understanding. In Ecclesiastes, the Preacher reminds us that the things of this world are temporary. He counsels us to prepare for the day when God will judge all of His children.

Emphasize the example of Jesus Christ. As we strive to live the Savior’s gospel, we are not simply following principles—we are following Him. Jesus Christ is the perfect example of all gospel principles. Focusing on His example will give the Holy Ghost an opportunity to testify of the Savior and inspire your students to follow Him. An example of how to do this can be found in Lesson 109: “Introduction to Proverbs.”

To learn more, see “Emphasize the Example of Jesus Christ” (Teaching in the Savior’s Way, [2016] 6).

Prepare to teach

The following information provides you with ideas of what you may need to prepare in advance for each lesson.

Introduction to Proverbs

Lesson purpose: To help students identify truths that can help them follow the Lord’s path.

• Student preparation: Invite students to select a piece of valuable advice or helpful words of counsel they have received from parents, leaders, and trusted friends. Invite students to prepare to share the advice and how it has blessed their lives.

• Materials for students: Small pieces of paper for students to write advice or counsel; strips of paper with proverbs listed on them (or you could write the proverbs on the board); paper and art supplies for students to create a poster

Proverbs 3

Lesson purpose: To help students choose to put their trust in the Lord.

• Student preparation: Invite students to consider marking in their scriptures the key scripture phrase for the doctrinal mastery passage Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart … and he shall direct thy paths.” To prepare for class, students could practice reciting the phrase several times and ponder situations in their lives in which they will need to trust in the Lord.

• Content to display: Questions to help groups discuss trusting in the Lord over our own understanding

• Video: “Trust in the Lord” (3:30)

Ecclesiastes

Lesson purpose: To help students understand how focusing on meeting God at the Final Judgment can help them make wise choices.

• Student preparation: Invite students to have a conversation with a parent or trusted leader about how they have seen the long-term impact of the decisions they made as a teenager.

• Content to display: Definitions of words and phrases in Ecclesiastes

• Video: “Think Celestial!” (19:15) from time code 5:20 to 5:46

Assess Your Learning 7

Lesson purpose: To help students reflect on the goals they have set and the growth they have experienced during their recent study of the Old Testament.

• Student preparation: Invite students to come to class prepared to share an Old Testament account or teaching that has had an impact on their spiritual progress.

• Content to display: Instructions for students to self-assess their thoughts and feelings about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ from their project; instructions for students to self-assess their scripture study

• Items to display: A lamp or a flashlight