Ok, So I was just called as a RS instructor! This is one of the callings that scare me half to death! I even contemplating saying no. But decided I would be cursed if I did! However I am so scared! They asked me to substitute once a few months ago, and I did an AWFUL job. Now, most people think that I am being modest. No I am not, I am not exaggerating either. It was so bad. With 20 minutes left, I basically was finished with my lesson. During the lesson, some lady mentioned that I was doing a good job for my first time. (that shows how bad it was-During the lesson!) So, if you don't understand yet, This calling is one of the worst callings for me-the only one worse would be Gospel Doctrine teacher. But I would like some help from you guys, who I am sure have al taught wonderful lessons. How do I not get so scared in front of them? Teaching the youth-I can teach like the best of them. Primary-a cinch. During my lesson, I honestly did not feel that the ladies where getting anything from the lesson. So I honestly felt that I would not be called into this, becauseI know that I will learn-but it has to benefit other people as well. Anyways-suggestions?
Monday, August 11, 2008
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
11 comments:
Oh man Buttons, I wish I could help but I am useless even at teaching primary. You know who always gave good RS lessons? Laurie, you should contact her! Hopefully someone else can help you more than I can, but I can pray for you!
I also have this calling, and Enrichment leader. I love teaching the best thing I can tell you is just act like yourself and follow the book! The church gives you them for a reason. I teach 4th sunday which is teachings of our times which is even more fun because you get to come up with your own questions. Make sure you read things morethan once. And also just remember that you are doing the best that you can and that is all Heavenly Father is asking you to do. Call me if you want to chat about it 717-294-6943
flipper
I teach relief society and sunday school in our ward and the best thing I have ever learned is not to be afraid to wait for answers to your questions. It only takes a few times of actually waiting 10-15 seconds (which is much longer than it seems) before people start commenting. And the more people comment the easier it is to make sure you have a successful lesson that lasts as long as you want it to. And I think it is easier for people to feel the spirit when they are contributing.
Just remember that whom the Lord calls, the Lord qualifies. You do not have to do this alone. Pray for the ladies you are teaching. pray to know what their needs are, and pray to know how the lesson may help them. This calling isn't about you, it's about them & their needs. You are acting as the Lord's mouthpiece. You've done it before, and you can do it again. The Lord has not called you to fail. He will strenghten you.
Love
Snazz
This calling would terrify me as well. But I have noticed that adults are harder to read than kids. So you may think that nothing is getting through when it really is. Give yourself the benefit of the doubt. I'm sure you will do a great job. I love just watching you talk to people, so just be yourself. The ladies will be grateful you are teaching.
Thanks girls. Well at least I'll learn something from this. Hopefully they will as well! :) Just keep me in your prayers. I don't know when I teach yet, but I'll let you guys know how I handle it.
I want to add, just ask them lots of questions. Give them a reason to participate. I know I learn the most from a lesson when I feel I play a part. I learn from my own comments and from the comments of others.
I totally agree with Tink, you are so fun to talk to. You are totally real. You are awesome!
One thing I have learned (this is one of my favorite callings in the church!) is that you cannot ever say anything in your lesson to apologize or make it sound like you don't enjoy it. I had a teacher in RS that at the start of every lesson would say something like, "I thought this lesson was not really well put together when I read it the first time." I tuned her out IMMEDIATELY. I would just take my book and read it, instead of listening to her teach. So, don't discredit your lesson or yourself. Also, like Snazz said, you have to trust the Lord. He knows that you can do this, and that you have to grow in this way. Study hard, and then trust in the promise in the scriptures that tells you that if you know the doctrine, the words will come to you. He DOES keep that promise! I know it from experience! You will do great! Trust in the Lord, and lean not unto your own understanding!
Michelle. You rock my socks and I know that there is a really amazing reason you were called to this. I also learned that when I took the time to really prepare my lessons with the spirit (I know, who wouldn't do that anyway?) I always learned so much more than I was able to teach. Prepare with the spirit and you will teach like a pro. . . it doesn't mean you won't be scared or nervous, but you will inspire and enlighten the people in the class, which is what you've been asked to do! I'm excited to hear about it!
Thanks girls. I am still scared out of my wits end but I'll survive. I found out I only teach every other month! Yeehaw! I teach in a few weeks-I'll let you know how it goes.
I remember reading what I thought was an EXCELLENT article about teaching in the Ensign earlier this year. It's called: Questions, the Heart of Learning and Teaching. It's from the January issue, or if you want here's the link to read it online: http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=d72776978ac17110VgnVCM100000176f620a____&hideNav=1
An important thing to remember is that teaching doesn't mean entertaining. It's a two way street. You probably watched it, the worldwide leadership training that was about teaching... that was a GREAT resource: http://www.lds.org/library/display/0,4945,7492-1-4036-1,00.html
In your prayers just ask for peace to fill your heart rather than fear because faith and fear can't exist together. Just know the Lord will go before you as long as you prepare yourself with the Spirit. I think it will turn out to be a really great experience that you will be grateful for in retrospect. Teaching isn't about "being a fabulous teacher" it's about inviting the Spirit to be present because the Spirit is who does the real teaching. Asking questions to stimulate discussions is really what teachers ought to focus on doing, imho. Don't be afraid of silence after asking a question... give it time and people will contribute. The students should be as prepared spiritually for the lesson as the teacher.... so just don't think that it's all up to you. It's a group effort to invite and learn and be uplifted by the Spirit.
Post a Comment