Parents play such a vital role in their children’s lives and forming their character – this is a theme that permeates my blog posts. Being a parent who actually wants to impact their children requires you to spend time with them, including devotional and prayer time.
First and foremost, we must start with you as a parent. Do you have time set aside each day for your own devotions and prayer life? Children are very observant and will likely follow your example rather than your words. Explain to your children why you have a devotional time and how it benefits you. Spending time reading the Bible, meditating on a scripture verse, being quiet and alone with God, praying – these can all be ways to spend devotional time.
Now, to get your family involved requires planning. Are your children toddlers or teenagers or both? Activities should be directed at your children’s different ages. For example, do not expect your 4 year-old to sit still for long periods of time. Plan having an activity such as coloring available that focuses on the theme for that day’s or week’s devotional. Read a Bible story. Talk with your children and ask them questions. Let them ask you questions too.
There are many children and youth-friendly books for devotional time. And, the internet has many websites as to what families can do together. Start off with a length of time that is short so that when it is well planned, the time will fly by. Make it a happy family time rather than a burden. Children especially do not want to participate in an activity that is mundane.
As your children get older, they should be encouraged to have their own devotional time as well. Family devotional time can become the foundation for their own private devotions.
For some recommendations of books to include, CLICK HERE.