Some tips from Pastor Billy…
The Bible clearly presents parents as the leaders of their children’s spiritual lives, until they come to ownership of their faith, and a real personal relationship with Jesus Christ. One of the ways that parents can continue to have spiritual conversations and know that their children are learning the word is by having family worship time. Now that might seem intimidating and something that no one has time for in their busy lives. However, it can be as simple, but just as impactful, as taking 10 minutes out of your day to Read, Pray, and Sing. Keep reading below for more resources, information, books, and encouragement.
Where?
At the kitchen table, living room, in the car or anywhere else your family can have time together.
Time of day?
I prefer to have family worship time in the morning to start the day, as each member can be thinking about the word throughout the day. I know of some families that do a morning time and an evening time before bed. Also, keep it consistent, everyday, not skipping here and there.
How long?
I would say that depending on the age of the kids it should be between 5-10 minutes. I know that with younger children it can be next to impossible to have it be longer, but each family also knows their kids and what works best for them. The goal is to make this time enjoyable for everyone, so make sure that it is kept brief.
What do you do?
READ
Have a plan
Older Kids
New Testament/Old Testament/Specific Book of the Bible
Encourage outside Bible reading and plans (Bible App?)
Memorizing Scripture?
Younger kids
Focus on characters
Gospel accounts
Life of Paul
Have each member of the family read (part or all verses)
Ask questions of the text
Have a discussion (topic, worldview, difficulty, etc.)
Pose questions of the text
Get the kids to think
Be willing to say you don’t know and will need to seek more help
PRAY
Each member of your family prays (adult, kids, adult close)
Keep it short and simple
Keep a prayer list (answered and continuing)
Focus on the truths you just read in the Bible and ask God to help make them real in your life
SING
Psalms, Hymns, Current Christian Artists (discretion as always)
Can be during this time or just made a priority in time together
Get kids to see the powerful truths of scripture expressed through song
Videos and Articles
Dr. Donald Whitney (Southern Seminary)
Recommended Books
Leading and nurturing your family as you seek to glorify God and encourage spiritual growth in your home is both God's command and your privilege. One of the best and most effective ways to do this is through intentional, worshipful, daily family devotions where the truths of God's life-changing Word are openly discussed chapter by chapter.
Gathering together for worship is an indispensable part of your family’s spiritual life. It is a means for God to reveal himself to you and your loved ones in a powerful way.
This practical guide by Donald S. Whitney will prove invaluable to families—with or without children in the home—as they practice God-glorifying, Christ-exalting worship through Bible reading, prayer, and singing. Includes a discussion guide in the back for small groups.
