Blog Post 8: Drawing Specific Inspiration from the Proclamation

              

"Teaching Gospel Principles: Practical Tips from The Family Proclamation"

In a world where the family unit is increasingly under attack, "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" serves as a vital guide for teaching and living gospel principles within the home. The Proclamation provides specific counsel on how families can thrive and fulfill their divine purpose. This final blog post in our series focuses on practical ways to teach children gospel principles, drawing inspiration directly from the Proclamation.

The Foundation of Gospel Teaching in the Home

The Family Proclamation declares, “Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to love and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live.” This statement emphasizes the vital role that parents play in teaching their children the gospel, not only through words but through example and daily living.

Teaching gospel principles at home isn't just about holding formal lessons; it's about integrating the teachings of Jesus Christ into everyday life. This approach helps children see how the gospel applies in real-world situations, making it more relevant and accessible to them.

Practical Tips for Teaching Gospel Principles

  1. Daily Scripture Study: Establishing a routine of daily scripture study helps anchor the family in the gospel. It doesn’t have to be lengthy—what matters most is consistency. Choose a time when the family is together, such as after dinner or before bed, and read a few verses or a chapter together. Discuss what was read, asking children questions to engage them and help them apply the teachings to their own lives.

  2. Family Home Evening: The Proclamation encourages families to have regular Family Home Evenings, a time set aside each week for gospel instruction, prayer, songs, and activities. This dedicated time helps families focus on spiritual growth and build strong relationships. Tailor these evenings to your family’s needs and interests, incorporating lessons, games, and service projects that reinforce gospel principles.

  3. Lead by Example: Children learn more from what they see than what they are told. Parents who strive to live the gospel daily—showing kindness, honesty, and patience—teach their children by example. When challenges arise, demonstrate how to apply gospel teachings by turning to prayer, scripture study, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Ghost.

  4. Incorporate Gospel Principles into Everyday Conversations: Use everyday situations as opportunities to teach gospel principles. For example, if your child experiences a conflict with a friend, discuss Christlike ways to resolve it, such as forgiving and seeking to understand the other person’s perspective. When facing a challenge, remind your family of the importance of faith, prayer, and trusting in the Lord.

  5. Serve Together: Service is a powerful way to teach gospel principles. As a family, look for opportunities to serve others in your community, whether it’s helping a neighbor, volunteering at a local charity, or participating in church service projects. Serving together teaches children the joy of selflessness and the importance of loving one’s neighbor.

  6. Create a Gospel-Centered Home Environment: Surround your home with reminders of your faith. Display pictures of Christ, the temple, and other symbols of your beliefs. Have uplifting music, books, and movies available that reinforce gospel teachings. A home filled with these influences provides a constant reminder of the gospel and its importance in daily life.

  7. Teach the Plan of Salvation: Help your children understand their divine identity and purpose by teaching them about the Plan of Salvation. Use visual aids, such as diagrams or drawings, to explain where we came from, why we are here, and what happens after this life. This understanding gives children a sense of direction and purpose, helping them make choices that align with God’s plan.

Addressing Challenges in Teaching Gospel Principles

  1. Dealing with Resistance: Sometimes children may resist gospel teachings, especially as they grow older and seek independence. Approach this with patience and understanding. Encourage open dialogue, allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings. Reinforce the teachings with love, and trust in the Lord’s timing.

  2. Consistency vs. Perfection: It’s important to strive for consistency in teaching the gospel, but don’t fall into the trap of seeking perfection. Life can be busy and unpredictable, and there may be times when you miss scripture study or Family Home Evening. What matters most is the overall pattern of gospel teaching in your home, not isolated instances of inconsistency.

  3. Tailoring Gospel Teaching to Individual Needs: Every child is unique, with different learning styles and spiritual needs. Adapt your teaching methods to fit each child. Some may respond well to stories and parables, while others may prefer visual aids or hands-on activities. Pay attention to what resonates with each child, and be willing to adjust your approach accordingly.

The Role of the Holy Ghost in Teaching

The Holy Ghost plays a crucial role in teaching gospel principles. As parents, your job is to create an environment where the Spirit can be present, guiding your words and actions. Pray for the companionship of the Holy Ghost in your family’s daily life, and teach your children how to recognize and follow the promptings of the Spirit. This divine guidance will help your children internalize gospel teachings and develop their own testimonies.

Teaching gospel principles within the home is a sacred responsibility and a profound opportunity to influence your children’s lives for good. By following the counsel in The Family Proclamation and applying the practical tips discussed in this blog post, you can create a gospel-centered home where your children feel loved, supported, and spiritually nourished. Remember that while the task may be challenging at times, the rewards are eternal.

Call to Action:

Reflect on how you currently teach gospel principles in your home. What’s working well, and what could be improved? Choose one new tip from this post to implement in your family’s routine this week. Share your experiences and insights in the comments below, and let’s support each other in creating strong, gospel-centered homes.

Resource: Hawkins, Alan J., et al. Successful Marriages and Families: Proclamation Principles and Research Perspectives. BYU Studies and School of Family Life, Brigham Young University, 2016.

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