“It is significant that the survivors of God's judgments will be a temple-oriented people, for it is their temple orientation that will help them escape his judgments” (Donald W. Parry and Jay A. Parry, Understanding the Signs of the Times , p 357). How are we doing with temple worship? Time for some FHE Fun!

Opening Song: #85 How Firm a Foundation

Opening Prayer: By Invitation.

Devotional: How ‘bout some cool spontaneous scripture sharing! What scripture moved you this week? Why? Strengthening each other isn't hard when we use the loving words of Christ to do so. Devotionals needn't be more than five minutes, but wow, are those potent five minutes when done kindly and tenderly!

Activity: Show the “fireman crawl”. Explain its purpose in saving lives during a house fire (i.e. because smoke rises and we keep our heads near the ground). Let everyone practice it, whether all together or one at a time. (Here is a great list of fire safety “tips for youngsters” to help you review.)

Ask the family what they would do during a house fire. After discussing safety rules (the links below this article have some fun coloring sheets, etc.), develop a plan of where to meet outside the home. Explain that knowing fire safety practices can save your physical life. But there is an even more deadly “fire” than physical fire: the efforts of Satan to destroy all that is good amongst us.

We must do the “fireman crawl” to stay below physical smoke when it is really bad. With spiritual fires, we must remain above the sin in the world. One of the best ways to do this is through temple worship. When we stand in holy places, we are safe.

Read this scripture:  

“And there shall be men standing in that generation, that shall not pass until they shall see an overflowing scourge; for a desolating sickness shall cover the land.

“But my disciples shall stand in holy places, and shall not be moved; but among the wicked, men shall lift up their voices and curse God and die” (D&C 45:31-32) .

Application: Ask the family where the most holy of places is? Compliment them when they guess “the temple.” Ask them what they think the family could do to bring the temple more fully into their lives? Do some brainstorming. Explain that the next few Family Home Evenings will be based on their suggestions and on working to bring the family closer to that holy spot.

Remind them again that fire safety is important. Understanding what to do with physical fires can save their physical lives. And understanding how to protect themselves against Satan's fires can be just as urgent. The temple provides that place of safety.

Closing Song: #95 I Love to See the Temple

Closing Prayer: By Invitation.

Refreshments: Licorice Chews would be quite thematic for this particular FHE. Discuss the “burnt” color of the chews. Remind your children of the burnt colors of desolation that fire brings, and that the Lord offers safety from the spiritual fires Satan delights in.

NOTE: Make sure to email this FHE lesson to other families with small children. Studies have shown most families have not discussed house fires with their toddlers and young kids. Help your family and those you love be not only spiritually prepared, but ready to protect themselves in case of physical fire. After teaching this FHE, why not schedule a play date and do some of the activities below with families you love! Here are a few links to help:

• StepByStepCC.com
• USFAParents.gov
• MrsJonesRoom.com

Struggling with your teens? C.S. Bezas' book is an essential help for parents and youth leaders. Powerful Tips for Powerful Teachers teaches you how to create powerful change. Visit your local LDS bookstore or get your copy online here.