PART 1 HONEST IN HEART Introduction (with Psalms ColorQuote activity to print)
PART 2 HONEST IN HEART Blessings
PART 3 HONEST IN HEART Lessons & 22 Lesson Lifesaver Activities (to print)
PART 1 HONEST IN HEART Introduction
(with Psalms ColorQuote activity to print)
You or Youth Can Teach
What does it really mean to be honest?
Is honesty just about telling the truth, or does it begin much deeper—in our hearts? God cares not only about what we say and do but also about the kind of person we are becoming inside.
STORY. Imagine you were Bonnie, wanting the shiny new hair-cutting scissors at the store. Thinking her mother would not buy them for her, she quickly put them in her purse without paying. When she got home and was about to cut her hair, she knew she had made a WRONG choice. So, she went back to the store and put the scissors back on the shelf. Honesty helped her do the right thing.
Could Bonnie have asked her mom if she could earn money to buy the scissors? What jobs could she have done to earn the money? After buying them, her mom could have taught her how to use the scissors safely. What honest choices can you make when you want something?
“He that walketh uprightly… and speaketh the truth in his heart.” (Psalm 15:2)
God teaches that honesty is more than telling the truth. It means having a heart that loves truth, chooses what is right, and desires to please Him in thought, word, and deed.
It’s possible to look honest on the outside while hiding dishonesty on the inside. Jesus taught that our hearts matter. A person who is honest in heart chooses integrity whether anyone notices or not.
Jesus Christ is the perfect example of honesty. Everything He said, did, and even thought reflected truth. As we follow Him, He helps us become honest in heart—not just honest in our words, but honest in every part of our lives.
Becoming honest in heart is a lifelong journey. Each day we make choices that shape our character. As we search the scriptures, ponder God’s word, and pray for His help, He can teach us to become people of complete honesty—in thought, word, and deed.
Honesty is one of the strongest building blocks of Christlike character. It is the foundation of trust, integrity, and faithful discipleship. When our hearts are honest before God, our words and actions naturally follow.
What does it mean to be HONEST IN HEART?
Being honest is more than simply telling the truth. It means loving truth, choosing what is right, and living with integrity even when no one is watching. God knows our thoughts, motives, and desires, and He invites us to become honest in thought, word, and deed. As you explore this article, you’ll discover scriptures, lessons, and activities that can help you strengthen this Christlike quality at home, at church, and in everyday life.
Use the above Introduction to teach about being “Honest in Heart.” Then share with those you teach about being honest in thought, word, and deed while keeping the focus on developing Christlike character.
Psalm 15:2 ColorQuote
Help children and youth remember to be HONEST IN HEART with this Psalm 15:2 ColorQuote.
You can download and print it in black and white to color or in full color. It is available in three sizes:
- A two-page poster
- A notebook size
- A card size to hand out as you teach about honesty.
Click HERE to download your favorite version.
PART 2 HONEST IN HEART Blessings
You or Youth Can Teach
Psalm 15:2 “He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.” (KJV)
. . . WALKING THE GOD PATH . . .
Psalm 15:2 teaches us how to walk uprightly:
“He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.” (KJV)
Each phrase in this verse points us to the God path—a life of character, integrity, and faithfulness. Walking with God is not always easy, but it brings lasting blessings.
“Walketh Uprightly”
“Walketh uprightly” describes a consistent way of life. Throughout the Bible, the word walk often refers to how a person lives: honestly, morally, and with integrity—even when no one else is watching.
Blessings:
- A clear conscience and inner peace. (See The Farmer and His Sleep story below.)*
- Growing trust and respect from others over time.
- Confidence in approaching God because your life is marked by sincerity rather than hypocrisy.
- Stability during difficult times because your life is built on godly principles.
“Worketh Righteousness”
“Worketh righteousness” means doing what is right, not merely believing what is right. It involves treating others fairly, keeping your commitments, showing kindness, and making choices that reflect God’s standards.
Blessings:
- Stronger relationships built on fairness, kindness, and dependability. Thomas Ford said, “There is a Lady sweet and KIND, Was never face so pleased my mind; I did but see her passing by, And yet I love her til I die.”
- The satisfaction that comes from doing what is right, even when it requires sacrifice.
- Becoming a positive influence in your family, workplace, church, and community.
- The joy of knowing your faith is demonstrated through your actions.
*Here’s a short story that illustrates a person with a clear conscience and inner peace:
The Farmer’s S L E E P
An elderly farmer lived in a small village. He wasn’t wealthy, but he was known for his honesty. One day, while walking home from the market, he found a wallet filled with cash. Many people would never have known if he kept it, and no one was watching.
Instead, the farmer asked around until he found the owner—a merchant who had been searching desperately for the wallet. The merchant offered the farmer a generous reward, but the farmer politely declined.
That evening, a neighbor asked, “Don’t you wish you had kept some of the money? No one would have known.”
The farmer smiled and replied, “Someone would have known—I would have. Money can buy comfort, but it cannot buy a peaceful night’s sleep.”
That night, the farmer SLEPT soundly, free from guilt, worry, or fear. The merchant, grateful for the kindness, told others about the farmer’s integrity, and over time the farmer earned the trust and respect of the entire community.
Lesson: A clear conscience comes from acting according to your values, even when no one is watching. Inner peace isn’t something that can be purchased or achieved through possessions—it grows from knowing you’ve done what is right.
This story reminds us that living with honesty and integrity often brings a deeper, longer-lasting peace than any temporary gain.
“Speaketh the Truth in His Heart”
“Speaketh the truth in his heart” goes beyond simply telling the truth. It describes a person whose thoughts, motives, and intentions are genuine and free from deceit. Their outward words match their inward character.
Blessings:
- Freedom from the burden of deception or living a double life. Tracking false stories cannot be fun. Mark Twain is often credited with saying, “If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.”
- Authentic relationships because others can trust your words and motives.
- Spiritual growth as your heart becomes more like Christ.
- A heart that is open to God’s guidance because it loves truth.
A Life of Integrity
Together, these qualities describe a person of genuine integrity—someone whose life is marked by honesty, righteousness, and faithfulness. Their values do not change with the circumstances or the people around them. Instead, their actions consistently reflect their beliefs and their commitment to God. Marcus Aurelius said, “If it is not RIGHT do not do it; if it is not TRUE do not say it.”
Psalm 15:2 paints a picture of a trustworthy disciple. Such a person can be relied upon in relationships, responsibilities, and service because their character is firmly rooted in truth and righteousness. Their faith is not merely spoken—it is lived.
This understanding fits the broader message of Psalm 15. David asks, “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?” The answer is found not in outward appearances or religious rituals, but in a life of integrity. Those who walk uprightly, do what is right, and remain truthful in heart are prepared to live in God’s presence and enjoy the blessings of walking with Him.
PART 3 HONEST IN HEART
Lessons & 22 Lesson Lifesaver Activities (to print)
You or Youth Can Teach
YOU & YOUTH CAN TEACH:
#1 THINK KINDLY – spotlight on jealousy with
LL ACTIVITY: Upside-down Turn-em-around poster activity
#2 BE TRUE TO YOURSELF – strong habits for teens with
LL ACTIVITY: Peer Pressure cross-match puzzle
#3 RECOGNIZING TRUTH – using the light of the Holy Ghost with
LL ACTIVITY: Who Is Abinadi? prophet poster and/or
LL ACTIVITY: Daniel and the Lions’ Den drama scene
#4 THINK WHAT WOULD JESUS DO (WWJD) – Following the Spirit like Jesus did can help us make right choices with
LL ACTIVITY: THINK What would Jesus want me to do? match puzzle
“Be ye kind one to another” (Ephesians 4:32).
#1 THINK KINDLY.
Thinking kindly means choosing happy and loving thoughts about your family and friends instead of mean or jealous thoughts. Jesus teaches us to be kind.
Sometimes you may feel jealous when someone else does something well. That feeling is normal. Instead of being upset, choose to be happy for them. Everyone has special talents and blessings—including you!
When you cheer for others, your heart feels happier, and you become a better friend.
Download Kindness Begins With Me – Upside-down Turn’em-around game (HERE or below) and have fun learning how to think kindly.
“They were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted (Alma 53:20).
#2 BE TRUE TO YOURSELF.
Being true to yourself means choosing the right, even when no one is watching. It means being honest, kind, and following Jesus Christ.
You are a child of God. That is your true identity. Jesus is our perfect example. You can grow stronger by:
- Reading the scriptures every day.
- Praying to Heavenly Father.
- Listening to the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
These good habits will help you make right choices, even when friends want you to do something wrong.
Try This!
- #1 Download the Peer Pressure Cross-Match activity (HERE or below).
- #2 Practice saying “no” by acting out different peer pressure situations.
- #3 Make a plan for what you will do when someone encourages you to make a wrong choice.STUDY: Friend Connection pages “Dealing with Peer Pressure” (HERE) and “Peer Pressure Problems” (HERE).
Learn from King Rehoboam
Read about King Rehoboam in the Peer Pressure lesson (See #1 above). He listened to the wrong people instead of following God’s wisdom. His story teaches us to choose good examples and make wise decisions.
This Scripture Challenge Card is in the 1 Kings 12:6–8 lesson activity shown (HERE or in the Peer Pressure activity above)
MORE LESSON IDEAS. How Can I Be Strong When Others Pressure Me?
Sometimes friends or other people may try to get you to do something you know is wrong. Here are some ways to stay strong and make good choices.
1. Listen to the Holy Ghost.
When you obey God’s commandments and are honest, the Holy Ghost can help you know what is right. He can warn you when something is not safe or good.
2. Ask good people for help.
Talk to your parents, family, Church leaders, or friends who make good choices. They can help and encourage you.
3. Have an escape plan.
If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, leave right away. Think ahead about what you will do so you are ready.
4. Decide your standards before you are tempted.
Choose now what you will and will not do. Then, when temptation comes, it is easier to say, “No!” Joseph in Egypt was a great example. He ran away from temptation instead of staying. (See Genesis 39:7–12.)
5. Make your choice and stand by it.
President Thomas S. Monson taught, “Decisions determine destiny.” When you know your standards, you don’t have to wonder what to do. Standing for what is right brings peace and helps you stay close to Heavenly Father.
Remember
You have the gift of agency. That means you can choose for yourself. Every choice has a result, so choose what is right, even when it is hard.
“Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth forever (Psalm 119:160).
#3 RECOGNIZING TRUTH.
The Light of Christ Helps Us Choose Right
Heavenly Father gave us the Light of Christ and the Holy Ghost to help us know right from wrong. When we pray, read the scriptures, and follow Jesus, we can make good choices.
Good Examples to Follow
Abinadi
Abinadi was a brave prophet. He taught King Noah and the people about Jesus Christ. Most of them would not listen, but one priest named Alma believed the truth. Later, Alma became a prophet too.
Activity: Download the “Stand as a Witness—Who Is Abinadi?” poster.
Daniel and the Lions’ Den
Daniel trusted Heavenly Father. He prayed every day, even when it was dangerous. Heavenly Father protected Daniel by closing the lions’ mouths. Daniel was safe because he had faith.
Just like Daniel, we can pray to Heavenly Father. He will help us know what is right and help us make good choices.
Activity: Pretend to be lions! Open your mouths wide like you are going to roar, then close them to remember how Heavenly Father closed the lions’ mouths to protect Daniel.
“For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you (John 13:15).
#4 THINK WHAT WOULD JESUS DO (WWJD).
When we choose happy, kind, and good thoughts, the Holy Ghost can help us every day. The Holy Ghost helps us know what Jesus would want us to do.
Even little children can stop and ask, “What would Jesus want me to do?” When we ask this question, it is easier to make good choices and “walk in the light of the Lord” (Isaiah 2:5).
THINK Matching Puzzle
Download the THINK: What Would Jesus Want Me to Do? matching puzzle.
Help children match each picture or word card to the center card that says:
“THINK: What would Jesus want me to do?”
The matching answers are:
- Pray
- Love others
- Visit someone who is sick
- Help Mom
- Feed the pets
- Read the scriptures
- Pay tithing
- Share treats
YOU & YOUTH CAN TEACH:
#1 ALWAYS TELL THE TRUTH
LL ACTIVITY: Spirit of Truth cross match
#2 KEEP PROMISES
LL ACTIVITY: “Honest in Thought, Word & Deed” drawing faces story poster
#3 KEEP PROMISES
LL ACTIVITY: Dot-to-Dot, Honest-or-Not Game
#4 KEEP PROMISES
LL ACTIVITY: Are you Miss Honest or Dishonest? journal
#5 SPEAK KINDLY
LL ACTIVITY: Doing Good to Others Golden ruler
#6 SPEAK KINDLY
LL ACTIVITY: “Love One Another” – John 15:12 REBUS memorize poster
“Let us walk honestly” (Romans 13:13).
#1 ALWAYS TELLING THE TRUTH.
Telling the truth means saying what is true. We do not lie, make stories bigger than they really are, or spread unkind rumors about others. Even when someone makes a mistake, we should still choose to be honest and kind.
Elder Neil L. Andersen taught that the world sometimes says little lies are okay. But Heavenly Father wants us to always tell the truth. When we choose honesty, we invite the Holy Ghost, who is the Spirit of Truth, to help us know what is right.
Download the Spirit of Truth: From God/Not From God activity and lesson (HERE or below).
Jesus said:
“I have given them thy word…” (John 17:14).
Heavenly Father always tells the truth and can always be trusted. Satan is called the “father of lies” because he tries to deceive people (Moses 4:4; John 8:44).
Which voice will you choose to follow?
Will you listen to Heavenly Father and the Holy Ghost, who teach truth? Or will you listen to Satan, who tells lies?
Choose to tell the truth every day. Honesty helps you stay close to Jesus Christ and feel the guidance of the Holy Ghost.
“Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.” (Proverbs 12:22).
#2 KEEP PROMISES.
Keeping a promise means doing what you said you would do. When you keep your promises, people learn they can trust you. You show that you are honest and dependable.
- Read the story of Barnabas, Ananias, and Sapphira in Acts 4:32–5:10. Talk about why it is important to always tell the truth and keep our promises.
- Complete the “I Will Be Honest in Thought, Word, & Deed!” activity.
How Can You Keep Your Promises?
Discussion: Ask the children, “What are some promises you can keep every day?”
Here are a few ideas:
- Make your bed.
- Do your homework.
- Help set the table.
- Read with your brother or sister.
- Learn a scripture.
- Go to church.
- Be reverent during church.
- Do your chores without complaining.
- Pay your tithing from the money you earn.
Invite the children to think of other ways they can keep their promises at home, at school, and with Heavenly Father.
“Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor” (Ephesians 4:25).
#3 KEEP PROMISES.
Promises to Other People
A promise is when you tell someone you will do something. When you keep your promise, people know they can trust you.
If you say, “I will help clean up,” or “I will share my toys,” do your best to do it. Jesus wants us to be honest and keep our promises.
STORY: Tommy’s Broken Promise
Tommy promised his little sister that he would help her build a block tower after school.
When Tommy got home, his friend asked him to come outside and play. Tommy forgot about his promise and ran outside.
His little sister waited and waited. She felt sad because she trusted Tommy to keep his word.
When Tommy came back inside, he saw her sitting alone with the blocks. He remembered his promise and felt sorry. He said, “I’m sorry I didn’t keep my promise. Will you forgive me?”
His sister smiled and said, “Yes.” Tommy helped her build the biggest block tower they had ever made.
From that day on, Tommy tried hard to remember that keeping promises shows love, kindness, and honesty. People trust us when we do what we say we will do.
. . . This story works well as a lead-in to a discussion by asking, “How do you think Tommy’s sister felt when he didn’t keep his promise?” and “What can we do if we forget a promise?”
Promises to God
We also make special promises to Heavenly Father. These are called covenants.
When we keep our promises to God by loving Him, obeying Him, and choosing the right, He blesses us, helps us, and stays close to us.
What Happens If We Don’t Keep Our Promises?
If we tell a lie or break a promise, someone may feel sad or hurt. They may not know if they can trust us.
Heavenly Father wants us to tell the truth and keep our promises. If we make a mistake, we can say we are sorry, repent, and try again. Jesus will help us do better.
Activity: Play the Dot-to-Dot Honest-or-Not Game. Talk about each picture and ask, “Is this an honest choice? What would Jesus want us to do?”
“Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right” (Proverbs 16:13).
#4 KEEP PROMISES.
Download the Honest or Dishonest? Consequence Journal (HERE or below).
Talk together about what can happen when we choose to be dishonest.
Spiritual Consequences of Dishonesty
- We can lose the guidance of the Holy Ghost. When we lie or deceive others, it is harder to feel the Holy Ghost helping us make good choices.
- We may not be worthy for sacred blessings. If we do not repent, we are not worthy to take the sacrament or receive a temple recommend.
- There are eternal consequences. The scriptures teach that if people continue to lie and never repent, they will be judged by God and miss the greatest blessings He has prepared for His faithful children.
President Russell M. Nelson taught in “Integrity of Heart” that true integrity means being honest and faithful all the time. It means being the same good person when we are alone as when others are watching. Integrity begins in our hearts. We show integrity by keeping our promises, obeying God’s commandments, telling the truth, and choosing the right even when no one else knows what we do.
Personal & Social Consequences of Dishonesty
- People may stop trusting you. When you lie, cheat, or steal, it is harder for family and friends to believe you. Trust takes a long time to build but can be lost quickly.
- You may feel sad inside. Being dishonest can make you feel guilty and take away your peace and happiness.
President Howard W. Hunter taught:
“Each lie, each deception, each act of dishonesty combines to create a monster that can destroy your character and your life.”
Simple Discussion:
Ask: How do you feel when someone tells you the truth? How do you feel when someone lies to you? Why is it important to be honest?
“Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them” (Matthew 7:12 – The Golden Rule).
#5 SPEAK KINDLY.
Speaking kindly means using words that help, encourage, and show love. We choose words that do not hurt, tease, lie, or deceive others. When we speak with kindness, we become more like Jesus and help others feel loved and respected.
GOLDEN RULER ACTIVITY
Download the Doing Good to Others: GOLDEN RULER activity (HERE or below).
The first action on the Golden Ruler is Be Kind, so talk with children about how they can speak kindly every day. Jesus taught the Golden Rule:
“Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.” (Matthew 7:12, KJV)
Ask:
- How do you like people to talk to you?
- What are some kind words you can say to others?
- How do kind words make people feel?
GOLDEN RULER
- Be Kind – Use kind and truthful words.
- Share with Others – Be generous and include everyone.
- Respect Others’ Property – Take care of things that belong to others.
- Return Borrowed Things – Keep your promises and return what you borrow.
- Help Others – Look for ways to serve and be a good friend.
Remind children that before they speak or act, they can ask themselves, “Would I want someone to do or say that to me?” If the answer is yes, it is a good choice!
“This is my commandment that ye love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12).
#6 SPEAK KINDLY.
Download the “Be Kind – Love Others” (John 15:12) rebus activity (HERE or below).
Be a Peacemaker
If you disagree with someone, stay calm and kind. Don’t argue or say hurtful things. Try to solve problems peacefully.
President Russell M. Nelson taught:
“Peacemaking is a choice. … I urge you to choose to be a peacemaker, now and always.”
Read the story “The Peacemaker Choice” (HERE) to learn how choosing peace can bless others.
Be Kind and Patient
Take time to listen to others and try to understand how they feel. Ask kind questions and be patient.
President Dallin H. Oaks taught:
“Dear children, our world needs your goodness and love. Be kind to one another. Jesus taught us to treat others as we want to be treated.”
Speak with Love
Use kind words that help others feel happy and loved. Don’t gossip or talk about people behind their backs. Speak the way Jesus would speak.
Be a Good Friend
The “Be Kind” article (HERE) shares great ideas for making new friends. Here are two:
- Be kind and helpful. You could say, “I’ll show you where we eat lunch,” or “Come sit by me.”
- If someone is being left out or treated unkindly, be their friend. Talk to them, play with them, or stand up for them.
Treat Everyone Like a Child of God
Remember that every person is a child of Heavenly Father. Everyone is important and can learn and grow. Don’t judge or criticize others. Instead, follow Jesus Christ’s example by showing love, kindness, and respect.
Read the story “Jesus Is Kind” (HERE) about Jesus blessing the children and inviting them to come to Him.
YOU & YOUTH CAN TEACH:
#1 PLAYING FAIR
LL ACTIVITY: YOUTH GOAL PLANNER: “Courage to Show Integrity
#2 RESPECTING PROPERTY AND PEOPLE
LL ACTIVITY: “I can show respect” choices poster
LL ACTIVITY: Are You Honor Off? Respecting Parents vote casting
#3 ADMITTING WHEN THEY ARE WRONG
LL ACTIVITY: I can say I’m sorry. poster or coloring page
LL ACTIVITY: Happy Henry or Miserable Mac body-building puzzles
“Do that which is honest” (2 Corinthians 13:7).
#1 PLAYING FAIR.
Playing fair means following the rules. Don’t cheat, don’t take credit for someone else’s work, and don’t take things that don’t belong to you.
Let’s Learn About Honesty
- Honesty means telling the truth all the time, not just when people are watching.
- Honest people ask before they borrow or use something.
- Remember: “Honesty is the best policy.” Try to say, “I will be honest every day.”
- When you are honest, people trust you.
- Honesty brings peace and helps you feel good inside.
- Honesty helps you feel close to God and pray with a happy heart.
- Being honest also means admitting when you make a mistake and trying to do better.
- Work for the things you want, or ask permission before taking something. Jesus said, “Thou shalt not steal” (Matthew 19:18).
Do You Have the Courage to Show Integrity?
Use the Courage Youth Goal Planner (HERE or below) to learn about brave people who chose honesty and integrity, including Joseph of Egypt, Esther, Job, Daniel, Apostle Paul, Hyrum Smith, and Joseph Smith. Talk about a time each person did what was right, even when it was hard. Then share a time when you chose to be honest and do the right thing.
“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another” (Romans 12:10).
#2 RESPECTING PROPERTY & PEOPLE.
– RESPECTING is not taking or using things that belong to a family member, school classmate, or friend without asking.
– RESPECTING is picking up after yourself at CHURCH, HOME, SCHOOL to make the world a better place.
Download I Can Show Respect (not Disrespect) choice-match poster (HERE or below)
– RESPECTING is not sassing parents. Help others. Try to understand and communicate. Give heed to and serve those in need.
Download Are You HONOR Off? honor parents vote casting post-and-present (HERE or below)
“Confucius said, “Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself.” Showing respect for both people and property helps build trust, creates a safer environment, and makes communities more pleasant for everyone.
Respecting Property
- Ask permission before using something that belongs to someone else.
- Return borrowed items in good condition and on time.
- Clean up after yourself in shared spaces.
- Avoid damaging or vandalizing property.
- Follow rules for using public places, schools, parks, and workplaces.
- Throw trash in bins and help keep areas clean.
Respecting People
- Listen when others are speaking.
- Use kind and polite language.
- Respect personal space and boundaries.
- Be honest and keep your promises.
- Help others when you can.
- Accept that people may have different opinions, cultures, or beliefs.
Story: Mia Learns Respect
Mia loved to play at the park. One day, she saw her friend’s little brother, Leo, leave his toy truck on the ground.
Mia picked up the truck and gave it back to Leo. Leo’s sister smiled and said, “Thank you for being kind!”
Mia learned that we show respect by being kind to people and by taking care of things that belong to others.
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10).
#3 ADMITTING WHEN THEY ARE WRONG.
Show courage by telling the truth when they break something or disobey a rule, rather than hiding it.
Repentance means:
- Admit you did something wrong.
- Say “I’m sorry” to God and to the person you hurt.
- Ask for forgiveness.
- Try your best to make it right.
- Choose to do better next time.
STORY “Honest Gabe” (HERE).
Summary. Gabe accidentally scratches Mrs. Cole’s car while playing with a stick, and he struggles with whether to admit what he did or avoid getting in trouble. Remembering his grandmother’s example of honesty and knowing that God and Jesus know the truth, Gabe decides to confess. He tells his mom and Mrs. Cole what happened and offers to help pay for the damage. Although he feels bad about his mistake, Gabe is relieved and happy because he chose to be honest.
Download Repentance: I Can Say I’m Sorry poster or coloring page (HERE or below)
Help children think about choices that make them feel happy or sad. Talk about how we feel happy when we say we are sorry, ask Heavenly Father to forgive us, and try to do better. When we do something wrong and do not repent, we may feel sad inside.
When we repent, we receive many blessings:
- We don’t have to carry guilty feelings.
- We feel happy because we are choosing the right.
- The Holy Ghost can be with us to help and guide us every day.
Download Happy Henry or Miserable Mac body-building puzzles (HERE or below)
“Those who walk uprightly and speak the truth may dwell with the Lord” (Psalm 15:1-2).
#4 ADMITTING HONESTY FEELS GOOD.
If you’re teaching children or teens, “measuring up” means checking if your actions match what is right. Honesty helps you measure up because your words and actions agree with the truth.
Download I’m Sew Honest! tent-card (HERE or below)
WAYS TO BE “SEW” HONEST!:
- Say what is true even when it is hard.
- Keep promises.
- Admit mistakes instead of blaming others.
- Return things that do not belong to you.
- Get your own (hard) work done without cheating or copying.
- Give credit to others for their ideas and work.
- Honest with your parents, teachers, and friends.
- Follow the rules, even when no one is watching.
- Say what really happened instead of making excuses.
- You can be trusted because people know you tell the truth.
- Choose what is right over what is easy.
- “ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS.”
Blessings of Being Honest
- You earn trust. Others can rely on you at HOME, SCHOOL, WORK, and CHURCH.
- You have a clear conscience. You don’t have to worry about hiding the truth or remembering lies.
- You build strong friendships. Honest people create relationships based on respect and trust.
- You gain confidence. Telling the truth helps you respect yourself and have integrity.
- You make better choices. Honesty helps you stay on the right path, even when it is difficult.
- You avoid many problems. Being truthful keeps small mistakes from becoming bigger ones. “
- You are guided by the Holy Ghost. Living honestly invites the Spirit to help and guide you.
- You become more like Jesus Christ. Jesus always spoke the truth and wants us to be truthful in all we do.
- You are prepared for greater responsibilities. Honest people are trusted with leadership, work, and sacred opportunities.
- You receive God’s blessings. The Lord blesses those who choose honesty and keep His commandments.
“Therefore@” (2 @).
#5 RUNNING FROM DISHONEST TEMPTATIONS.
Download Temptation Traps and Escapes brainstorm (HERE or below)
See the “HONESTY” Index of activities (HERE or below) to find 36 activities and song visuals on HONESTY, like the ones shown in this article. There is a lot more to learn about HONESTY (there). Enjoy!
YOU’LL FIND
• POST-AND-PRESENT Poster Games and Activities for CHURCH and HOME (for all ages)
• LESSON LIFESAVER Activities and Handouts to Make Learning Fun! for children and youth (for Ages 1-3, 4-7, 8-11, and 12-16 Teens)
• SCRIPTURE poster/card sets to memorize.
• SONG VISUALS to teach about the subject.
• COME, FOLLOW ME weekly lessons to find in the MENU (above). You will find over 24 games or activities and song visuals for each week. Plus, the SCRIPTURE SCHOLARS reading bookmarks, underlining Pop-up activity, reward stamps, and a stamp-keeper.
“We believe in being HONEST , true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men . . . If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things” (Articles of Faith 1:13).
Four-year-old twins reciting this scripture . . .
Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are TRUE whatsoever things are HONEST, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
See the “SERVICE” Index of activities (HERE or below) to find 113 activities and song visuals on DEEDS (Love & Service), like the ones shown in this article.
Standing at someone’s door with a bouquet of flowers is one way to share with a friend. Children and youth are looking for ways to show LOVE & SERVICE and these fun games and activities, scriptures, and songs will help you teach them what it means to have CHARITY (“the pure love of Christ).
YOUTH CAN TEACH all of these activities and share ways to serve. Also, Activity Days or Mutual for youth can help them create goals to love and serve.
