Why family devotion?
As parents, we are entrusted to help our children to learn and love God and His Word.
And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. Deuteronomy 6:6-9
The Word of God is essential to our spiritual growth
But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:4
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
How to prepare for family devotion?
- Set apart time where the family would gather together for a 5-15 minutes undisturbed time (depending on the age of the child). Consistency is the key because it shows that time with God is a high priority. For example: after dinner or before bed
- A physical copy of the Bible. Use NIV or NIRV version of the Bible.
- A notebook and pen to write down your prayer and thanksgiving to God.
What to do during family devotion?
1. Pray. Parents should start the family devotion with a prayer.
For example: Dear God, help us to enjoy your presence by reading your word.
2. Read. Talk. Record.
Read - read aloud the Bible passage according to the Enter Through the Veil. You may download the Children Version attachment below.
Talk - ask questions that can help the children to understand the passage.
For example: “What happened?” “What is being taught?” “How does this apply to your life?”
Keep the discussion clear and concise. Let the children ask any questions they have, the parent will do his/her best to answer them. If you cannot answer right away, it is ok. Let the children know you will find out the answer. This is an opportunity to find out what your children are thinking about their faith.
Record - ask the children how you can pray for them and invite the children to say one thing to thank God for the day. Record prayers and thanksgiving items in the family devotion notebook.
3. Pray. End with a prayer.
Enjoy Your Time Together with God.
Our goal in family devotions is to see life transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit of God!