Financial Self-Reliance 12-27-15

[Note to the teacher: This Self-reliance lesson can be beneficial to both adults and youth.  However, keep in mind that young people will have less experience in financial matters. Help each group relate to the principle and the discussion points based on their age and experience.]

OBJECTIVE: Understand key principles and practices of financial self-reliance.

PRINCIPLE: We have been given a stewardship for all our earthly resources, including money.

DISCUSSION A:  Is it wrong to “seek after riches?”

But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God.  And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted. Jacob 2: 17-19

Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich. Behold, he that hath eternal life is rich. (D&C 6:7)

At first glance the reader might suppose that it is wrong for any individual to seek for riches. In light of the doctrine found in Jacob 2:17-19, God does condemn that man who makes the acquisition of riches his goal. Rather man is first to develop a desire to bless his fellow men and then seek the riches of the earth as a means to that end.

The Lord frequently promised the riches of the earth to his people: “And if ye seek the riches which it is the will of the Father to give unto you, ye shall be the richest of all people, for ye shall have the riches of eternity; and it must needs be that the riches of the earth are mine to give; but beware of pride, lest ye become as the Nephites of old.”  (D&C 38:39)

DISCUSSION B: How does money relate to living providently or wisely?

The living prophets have counseled us time and again to put our lives in order—to eliminate debt, to store food and other essential items, to pay our tithing, to obtain appropriate education, and to live the commandments. Doing so puts us in a position to do the Savior’s work in our own homes, in the Church, and in the community. When we live providently it becomes possible to reach out to the poor and needy, the afflicted, the downtrodden, to “lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees” (D&C 81:5). More important, provident living makes it possible for us, both in our youth and in our golden years, to answer the call of the Savior to “go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mormon 9:22). With these glorious opportunities and blessings before us, have we obeyed the simple but essential prophetic instructions to live providently?

To do so, we will need to focus more on what is eternal and less on what is temporal. We live in an age of greed—that insatiable, enslaving appetite for temporal things. Remember, temporal means “temporary,” and temporary things cannot bring eternal happiness. So we remind ourselves: We don’t want to spend our lives on the things of this world, for we cannot take them with us when we die.

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: “But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:19–21).

So look ahead. Take the long view. Be patient. Save your money. Remember that you don’t get something for nothing in this life. The law of the harvest applies to all of us. It takes hard work to plant, grow, and reap the harvest.

DISCUSSION C:  What is the best way to manage money?

Perhaps the key method of managing our money is by budgeting. Rewards that come from careful budgeting include more restful sleep; self-reliance during emergencies; having the means for adequate health care, insurance coverage and educational opportunities; eventually some measure of financial independence giving one the freedom to serve others through missions, Church service or other opportunities; and enhanced self-esteem that comes from feeling in control.

Tips for successful budgeting

There are various budgeting systems, but the best ones, experts say, incorporate the following steps:

1. Estimate your net income for the budgeting period.

2. Estimate your expenditures for the budgeting period. Expenditure categories will be of two types: fixed (i.e. home mortgage, rentals, loan repayments) and discretionary (i.e. food, clothing, gifts, entertainment, vacations). Remember to consider such items as semi-annual insurance payments and year-end property taxes. Remember, also, that utility costs often fluctuate according to the season.

3. Balance estimated income with estimated expenditures for the budgeting period. Trim or adjust discretionary expenditures until the budget is in balance.

4. Keep track of each expenditure, subtracting the amount from the appropriate budget category. Timing is critical; the subtracting should be done as soon after the expenditure as is feasible so you know where you stand in that particular category. Don't wait until the end of the month.

5. Don't panic or give up if you go over budget in a certain category, but make adjustments, if necessary, either in your budget or in your spending behavior. You may have to go back to step 3 one or more times before you have a workable budget in place.

DISCUSSION D: How does the payment of tithing help us manage money?

The fact is that tithing is the Lord's law of finance. It came of revelation from Him. It is a divine law with a great and beautiful promise. It is applicable to every member of the Church who has income. It is applicable to the widow in her poverty as well as to the wealthy man in his riches. . . . One need only compare it with the income tax to recognize the simplicity that comes of the wisdom of God in contrast with the complexity that comes of the wisdom of men. ("The Widow's Mite," BYU 1985-86 Devotional and Fireside Speeches, September 17, 1985, p. 9.)

Tithing helps us to focus on Godly things rather than temporal things and  helps us discipline our earthly appetites. Tithing places us a partnership with God in building up His kingdom on earth.  Tithing helps us better organize our financial life by budgeting one tenth of our income and causes us to pay more attention to the other nine tenths of our income.

Teaching suggestion: Have class members share their experience with saving money or paying tithing. The teacher may end the class by bearing testimony of the power of provident living – especially in the area of finances.

Work : The Value of Work in God’s Plan 11-29-15

OBJECTIVE: Understand the importance of work, including employment, and be able to apply its principles

PRINCIPLE 1: Work is a Godly principle and practice

DISCUSSION A: What does it mean to work? 

From the Church Handbook of Instructions, we learn: “The Savior has commanded the Church and its members to be self-reliant and independent. …

“To become self-reliant, a person must work. Work is physical, mental, or spiritual effort. It is a basic source of happiness, self-worth, and prosperity. Through work, people accomplish many good things in their lives. …

“As people become self-reliant, they are better prepared to endure adversities” and are “better able to care for others in need.” 1

President Marion G. Romney (1897–1988) taught: “Without self-reliance one cannot exercise these innate desires to serve. How can we give if there is nothing there? Food for the hungry cannot come from empty shelves. Money to assist the needy cannot come from an empty purse. Support and understanding cannot come from the emotionally starved. Teaching cannot come from the unlearned. And most important of all, spiritual guidance cannot come from the spiritually weak.” 2 (See also p.  of this magazine.)

President Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994) said: “The world would take people out of the slums. Christ takes the slums out of people, and then they take themselves out of the slums. The world would mold men by changing their environment. Christ changes men, who then change their environment. The world would shape human behavior, but Christ can change human nature.

DISCUSSION B: If work is physical, mental, or spiritual effort, list at least ten different kinds of work.  Answers might include: 1. Employment or a job, 2 cleaning the house or yard, 3. fixing something broken, 4. studying a school lesson or homework, 5. Reading a novel, 6. exercising, 7. Studying the gospel, 8. Doing missionary or temple work, 9. Visiting friends, neighbors, and members of the church, 10. Fulfilling callings….etc.  In other words, “work” is not just physical labor.

DISCUSSION C: Using the examples listed above, how does work help us, refine us, and help us grow?  Answers may include:

1. Helps keep us physically healthy.  (How?)

2. Helps keep us mentally healthy. (How?

3. Helps keep us emotionally healthy. (How?)

4. Helps keep us spiritually healthy.  (How?)

DISCUSSION D. Why did God say to Adam that the ground would be cursed “for his sake?”  Was this a punishment or a blessing, or both.  (List possible answers.)

PRINCIPLE 2:  (For Adults) Work, for many years of our lives involves employment.  However, our need to work does not diminish when we retire or become disabled. 

DISCUSSION A: (For Adults) What are some of ways in which we can continue to work if we are:

           a. Retired?

             b. Disabled or elderly?

          

PRINCIPLE 3:   (For Youth) It is important to learn the principle of work during our youth.

At what age should we begin to learn the principles of work? Answer: From infancy……… The work required to accomplish tasks in life allows us to grow and develop at any age.

Principle 4: The principle of work requires we develop skills and abilities.

DISCUSSION: What are some of the skills required of a good worker or employee regardless of age or type of work.

  Answers might include:

1. Willingness or desire to do a good job

2. Timeliness (Be on time, schedule your work, get the work done on time.)

3. Maintain proper appearance (Depending on the type of job, be dressed appropriately.)

4. Be eager to learn duties in a way that doesn’t require you to be told what to do for every step of the job.

5. Be thorough and complete in finishing duties.

6. Be responsible to clearly understand duties and to give feedback and communicate whatever is necessary.

7. Teamwork – most jobs involve working with others – learn how to cooperate and work with others.

8. …..

9…….

10…….

SUMMARY:  Begin to consider how each of us might develop more positive work habits.  (Have class members take a moment and reflect on how they can improve their work habits in any of the areas of work:

Physical, mental, emotional, spiritual…….  If prompted, ask for someone to share a goal from their list.)

Bear your personal testimony of the value of work.

Education (10/18/15)

Objective: Learn how education builds self-reliance.

PRINCIPLE 1: Education is an eternal principle.

DISCUSSION:  Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection.  Doctrine and Covenants 130:18  What is meant by the term “intelligence.”  A revelation of 1833 declared, "The glory of God is intelligence, or in other words, light and truth" (D&C 93:36). Elder John A. Widtsoe said, "The word intelligence, as used in common speech, means readiness in learning, quickness of mind. Its higher gospel meaning is more profound. The intelligent man is he who seeks knowledge and uses it in accordance with the plan of the Lord for human good.... Intelligence, [is] but another name for wisdom. In the language of mathematics we may say that knowledge, plus the proper use of knowledge, equals intelligence, or wisdom." (CR, Apr. 1938, p. 50.)

DISCUSSION: Education can enrich, ennoble, and provide understanding that leads to a happier life. Members should study the scriptures and other good books; improve their ability to read, write, and do basic mathematics; and obtain skills needed for suitable employment.  Providing in the Lord’s Way: Summary of a Leader’s Guide to Welfare.  How has education enriched your life?  Give examples.

              

PRINCIPLE 2: The need for education and educational requirements are constantly changing.

DISCUSSION: For Adults: How has the need for education changed since you were in school? For Youth: How are educational requirements changing as you prepare yourself for future employment? Possible answers include, 1. Education for employment has become / is becoming much more specialized. 2. Many jobs now require proficiency with computers and use of the Internet. 3. Foreign competition in manufacturing is making the job market more competitive; thus making those with more education more competitive. 4. Some job categories that once only required a high school education now require higher education. Vocational training has expanded greatly in recent years.  Whether it is vocational training or college training, education is the key to being gainfully employed.  Ask class members who may have experienced this to share their experience.  Ask adult or have adults share what subjects they studied in elementary and high school versus what their children studied or are studying.

PRINCIPLE 3:  Advancements in science and technology are moving so fast that continual education is a requirement for the workplace.

DISCUSSION: How does a person “keep pace” in today’s and tomorrow’s workplace? “In today's fast-paced business world, no one's going to give you permission to engage in continuous learning -- a strategy that is essential to your future success. You must take the initiative yourself.

Unfortunately, however, this attitude is far from the norm. Most people subscribe to the “inoculation” theory of education — “I got my degree (or diploma), and now I don’t have to learn anymore.” Not only is this attitude out of step with successful living, these days it may be downright dangerous! Accelerating change in nearly every area of human endeavor is making current knowledge obsolete at a faster pace than ever before. Gone are the days of the artisan, where one could learn a craft and utilize it for a lifetime, with little or no change. In short, the only constant these days is change itself.

To grow in our jobs and our family lives requires that we keep on growing and learning, long after our formal schooling is done. The more we’re able to know and the more skills we acquire, the more value we can offer to our employers, friends and families. And that places us in an upward spiral of growing income and emotional wellbeing. Well-known business author and change agent Tom Peters calls it cultivating “towering competence” — becoming the very best at what you do, by continuing to learn and hone your skills and capabilities to the point where they become highly regarded and sought after by your coworkers and professional peers.

Continuous learning means we’re keeping the “raw material pile” of our brain freshly stocked, which enables us to come up with more and better ideas and innovations — which every business needs today. New ideas and solutions are a primary way you can add value to your job, and therefore increase your success.”  www.InovationTools.com

DISCUSSION: What are some ways that people, even those still in school, can develop the pattern and habit of continual learning?  (List various ways )  Answers might include:

1. Develop good life-long reading habits.  Expand your areas of interests in reading.  Always be reading a good book, including and especially the scriptures.

2. Take classes offered by community agencies. Many good classes are offered free of charge.

3. Learn basic computer skills.

4. For families with children: Discuss “What did you learn today?” when together for a meal.

5. What are some other ways to apply life-long learning habits?

DISCUSSION: Given today’s discussions, how does education impact self-reliance?

Answers might include:

1. Education puts more resources within our grasp.  Have someone explain.

2. Education allows more control over one’s life.  Have someone explain.

3. Education gives us more options and choices in life. Have someone explain.

Emergency Preparedness

   A lesson outline 

Objective: Learn and apply the principles of Emergency Preparedness.

Principle: Being prepared for any emergency gives us peace of mind.

Have you ever found yourself suddenly without power at home in the middle of winter? Did you have a flashlight with working batteries? Did you have a source of heat? Did you have food to eat that didn’t have to be cooked? Did you have an alternative source to run medical equipment?

The Lord has admonished us to “prepare every needful thing” (D&C 109:8) and has promised that “if ye are prepared ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30).

Discussion A: What kinds of emergencies or disasters should we be prepared for? (Answers could include: Snowstorms, power outages, fire, tornadoes aftermath,  earthquakes, transportation and shipping halts, floods, shortages, chemical spillage, evacuations, water contamination, etc.)

Discussion B: Why is it important to know about the different kinds of  potential disasters in our area?

Learning about the different disasters that can happen in our area will help us to know how to prepare.  For example, If there is  earthquake, we need to know how to shut off gas valves and to have the right tool available. If there is a house fire, do you know how to use a fire extinguisher? Do you have one available?

Discussion C: How can I begin to prepare for an emergency?

Please do not go into debt gathering your supplies. Make a plan and have a place to store the items. Then begin to add to your kit as you can.

1.      Get Informed. Learn what you need to know to be prepared in various emergency situations. Discuss with your family the disasters that can happen where you live. Establish responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team

2.   Make a Plan. Once you learn a little about your chosen area of emergency preparedness, make a plan for getting ready. Talk with family members about your plan and consider the needs and responsibilities of all involved. Choose two places to meet after a disaster:

§  Right outside your home, in case of a sudden emergency, such as a fire.

§  Outside your neighborhood, in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate your neighborhood.

Choose an out-of-area contact for all members of the family to call in case of disaster. The selected contact person should live far enough away that they would be unaffected by the same event, and they should know they are the chosen contact. Remember that during a disaster, it may be easier to make a long distance phone call than to call across town. Having predetermined meeting places will save time and minimize confusion should your home be affected or if the area is evacuated.

       3. Carry Out the Plan. If your emergency preparedness plan calls for purchasing supplies, making a kit, gathering information, or completing a task, begin small and build from there.

Discussion D: What should I include in my Emergency preparedness kit?    

There are many computer websites that have information on survival kits and the county extension office may have brochures available. Also the Red Cross is a valuable resource.  A kit should be tailored to the individual and family. Are there children or a bed-ridden person? Evaluate your needs and plan accordingly. A basic kit is included in the Handout.

Discussion E. How do I store my kit?   After gathering the supplies, put them in a sturdy container such as a plastic bin, duffle bag, backpack, etc. Some families have a separate backpack for each family member and a large duffle bag for the additional items, such at a tent, cook stove, fuel, tools, etc. Store these in a convenient place that can be reached if there is an emergency. For example, under a bed, a closet, at the front door, on shelves.  Kits should also be available in a school locker, the car, place of work, etc.

What will you do if disaster strikes your neighborhood: a fire, a riot, a flood, a tornado, a hurricane, or an earthquake? The most critical need for help after the disaster is during the first 72 hours, yet community and government assistance will probably not be available during this period.

By heeding the words of the prophets to be prepared we will be ready should anything happen. We will have peace of mind and “shall not fear.”

Handout

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS KIT CONTENTS

Whether purchasing an official Red Cross preparedness kit or assembling your own, your family's kit should contain items that enable you to provide comfort for everyday scrapes or treat life-threatening emergencies.

A standard preparedness kit should include the following items.

§  Water - You and your family may be without water for days in the aftermath of a disaster. The Red Cross recommends that each person store one gallon of water per day for at least three days. This supply will provide water for drinking as well as limited cleaning and cooking.

§  Food - When preparing for a disaster, store at least three days of non-perishable, nutritious food that requires little or no water or cooking to prepare. Don't forget to store a manual can opener with non-perishable food items. When assembling items, remember that you and your family may be without water, gas, or electricity for an unknown period of time. You may already have many of these on hand.

•            Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener

•            Protein or fruit bars

•            Dry cereal or granola

•            Peanut butter

•            Dried fruit

•            Nuts

•            Crackers

•            Canned juices

•            Non-perishable pasteurized milk

•            High energy foods

•            Vitamins

•            Food for infants

•            Comfort/stress foods

§  Medications - When assembling a preparedness kit for you and your family, remember that pharmacies may be closed in the wake of a disaster. Be sure to include a week's supply of prescription and over-the-counter medications. Also keep a list of all medications and dosages, allergies, doctors' names, and nearby hospitals.

§  Radio - Your home, or even neighborhood, may lose power in the aftermath of a disaster. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio in your kit. Have extra batteries in your kit.

§  First Aid Kit - Injuries are a common occurrence in a disaster. Be prepared to treat yourself, your loved ones, and others who need help.

§  Personal Documents - You and your family may be displaced after a disaster. Be prepared, ensuring you have all necessary records with you - ID, passport, birth certificate, social security number, and insurance policies.

§   Also keep an extra set of eye glasses, contact lenses, a cane, hearing aid batteries, or any other personal items you may need.

§  Contact Info - Keep a list of family phone numbers and addresses as well as a copy of your out-of-area emergency contact card in your preparedness kit. Note that it is often easier to make a long-distance call rather than a local call after a disaster strikes.

§  Map - Include a detailed map of the surrounding areas with highlighted evacuation routes. Following a disaster, roads may be closed and travel out of the affected area may not be possible. Become familiar with alternate routes to and from your home.

§  Money - Following a disaster, banks and ATMs may be closed. Keep small bills and change on hand to buy necessary supplies like water. Travelers checks can also be used.

§  Clothing - You and your family may be forced to evacuate your home in a hurry without time to pack accordingly. Keep an extra set of warm clothes and sturdy shoes in your preparedness kit to ensure you're equipped to evacuate if needed.

§  Sanitary Supplies - Include extra toilet paper, moist towlettes, feminine supplies, personal hygiene products, bleach, and any other personal products you may need in your preparedness kit.

§  Pet Supplies - Remember to include your pets in the plan. Make sure to assemble things your pets will need during a disaster, like food, leashes, medicine, etc.

§  Tools - Keep an adjustable wrench in your preparedness kit to turn off your gas if necessary. Other tools may include a manual can opener, plastic sheeting, garbage bags with ties, and duct tape, dust mask,.

§  Flashlight and extra batteries

§  Whistle to signal for help

§  Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

Once you have gathered the supplies for a basic emergency kit, you may want to consider adding the following:

·         Infant formula and diapers

·         Emergency reference material such as a first aid book

·         Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.

·         Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.

·         Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted, nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.

·         Fire extinguisher

·         Matches in a waterproof container

·         Candles

·         Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

·         Paper and pencil, pencil sharpener or knife

·         Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

·         Other tools such as a knife, ax, small shovel

·         CANNED HEAT (STERNO) – This can be purchased at most sporting goods stores as well as most grocery stores. You will need to store 1 large can per person per day.

Or a BUDDY BURNER – Select a shallow can (tuna, cat food, etc.) and insert coil of corrugated cardboard the height of the can. Pour melted paraffin to partially fill can. Allow to harden. Birthday candle in center will help light. A lid on the can with a wire handle will help control the heat.

VAGABOND STOVE – Use a number 10 can. Cut opening around the top of the can with a can opener punch. This is to provide a draft or your fire. Then cut an opening at the bottom of the can large enough to fit the Buddy Burner or a small fire. Cook on top.

Makeshift Toilet

Assembling your own toilet requires just two parts: a 5-gallon bucket and a plastic toilet seat with a lid.

To make the most out of your toilet, gather the following items and keep them in your bucket until you need to use it:

Several boxes of 8-gallon garbage bags. Use a garbage bag to line the bucket before use.

Kitty litter. Store it in an empty two-liter bottle and shake it into the toilet after each use to reduce odors.

Toilet paper. Put a roll into a plastic zippered baggie and squeeze the air out of the bag. This will protect your toilet paper and allow you to keep various rolls in the bucket.

Disinfecting wipes or hand sanitizer. Use these if you can’t wash your hands.

Air freshener.

One roll of paper towels.

After a few uses, tie off the bag and throw it in your garbage can. Perfect! Once you’ve assembled your toilet, you’re taking care of No. 1 by planning for No. 2!

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865574751/The-Great-Utah-ShakeOut-Toilets-may-seem-to-use-you-in-a-disaster.html

The above items were taken in part from the following websites:

https://www.redcross.org/flash/brr/English-html/kit-contents.asp

http://www.jennysmith.net/lds-activity/72-hour-kit-list-very-good-list

http://www.ready.gov/kit

http://www.mormonshare.com/lds-activity/72-hour-emergency-supply-kits

http://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1549-20490-4633/areyouready_full.pdf    Full manual from fema