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The Miracles of Satan
By
C.S. Bezas
Are your children prepared so that they will not be deceived? Here is a simple Family Home Evening lesson to teach an important principle. Time for some FHE Fun!
Opening Song: #277 As I Search the Holy Scriptures
Opening Prayer: By Invitation.
Devotional: How ‘bout some cool spontaneous scripture sharing! What scripture moved you this week? Your children? Why? FHE Devotionals make strengthening each other easy. They needn't be more than five minutes or so, but wow, are those five minutes potent when done kindly and tenderly!
Activity:
Items Needed:
- Brownie mix (or recipe below)
- Brownie icing
Prepare in advance two sets of “trick brownies”—just don't let the kids see you make these! One set of brownies will be “yummy” (this link to these “Football Brownies” contains a great recipe) and the other portion of brownies will be quietly “deceitful” (use the same “yummy” recipe, but add in an additional ¼ - ½ c. chili powder).
Ice both sets of brownies with identical icing so that they look the same … but make sure to vary the icing technique so YOU can tell the difference between the two sets. Place the icky [deceitful] brownies on an attractive display on a plate (but make sure nobody pilfers one in advance, or the surprise will be lost). Hide the normal brownies.
During FHE, invite the family to pick a brownie from the plate to enjoy during the lesson. Once everyone has bitten into them and expressed their surprise (or disgust or whatever response they have), pretend astonishment that they'd have a problem with the brownies. Nicely insist that they are delicious!
Application:
While you are still insisting that the brownies are fine, ask a family member to read the following story from Exodus 7:8-10:
“And the Lord spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,
“… Take thy rod, and cast it before Pharaoh, and it shall become a serpent.
“And Moses and Aaron went in unto Pharaoh, and they did so as the Lord had commanded: and Aaron cast down his rod before Pharaoh, and before his servants, and it became a serpent.
“Then Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers: … they also did in like manner …
“For they cast down every man his rod, and they became serpents: but Aaron's rod swallowed up their rods.”
Ask what that scripture might have to do with the funny tasty brownies. Invite the thoughts of the group and then read the following quote:
“The miracles of Satan and the miracles of God may often be indistinguishable from one another to the outward senses [explain what “indistinguishable” means]. Only through the discernment given by the Spirit of God can we know the difference” (Donald W. Parry and Jay A. Parry, Understanding the Signs of the Times, p. 277).
Invite further discussion about the brownies. What might the icky brownies symbolize? After people have shared their thoughts, let them know that just because a miracle on earth can occur, it does not mean it is from God. Let them know that even though Satan does have some power on this earth (as mentioned in the scriptures in such places as Revelations 16:14), the adversary only has the power that is allowed by the Lord.
We can choose to avoid being deceived. How do we do this? Invite discussion. What are some ways the family would like to increase sensitivity to the Spirit to avoid being given the equivalent of “trick brownies” from Satan?
Finish by bearing your testimony that as we know the gospel patterns taught by the Lord, read our scriptures to learn of His ways, and apply His teachings, we will be protected against the icky things Satan tries to give us or deceive us with. We will understand the truth then of the following scripture (James 3:17-18):
“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
“And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace (James 3:17-18).
Close by reading the words to hymn #143, “Let the Holy Spirit Guide” (found at this link). Discuss and bear testimony of the power of the Spirit to warn us of Satan's deceitful choices.
Closing Song: #249 Choose the Right
Closing Prayer: By Invitation.
Refreshments: Pull out the hidden delicious brownies and enjoy chatting and chowing on the savory treats. Again, here is a link http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Football-Brownies for a great brownie recipe!
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.
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