We share so many important things with our children. We have special holiday traditions, favorite recipes, and memorable vacations. Our priorities show through what we share with our family. Why not share your faith? I know that sounds a little scary to some, but I promise you that family devotions are an easy way to share your faith with your family.
What does the Bible say?
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. Deuteronomy 6:6,7 (ESV)
God has commanded that we teach our children. We relegate that responsibility to others pretty easily these days. Nevertheless, God puts that responsibility squarely in our laps. Notice that it doesn’t say you need a theology degree or to host formal classes for you children. As you sit in your house or go for a walk, you can talk about God. Reading a bedtime Bible story or praying together in the morning—it all counts!
2 Peter 3:17,18 says, “You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. (ESV)
Our world is constantly trying to shake us. How better to keep our firm foundation (and our children’s firm foundation) in Jesus, than to grow through shared devotional time? It’s just one way, but it’s a good one.
John 15 (the whole chapter) has tons of good advice about abiding in God. Abide means live with God. He lives with you just like the rest of your family. He sees the good, bad, and the ugly. Let your family see God living and abiding with you. And you abiding with Him.
I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. 1 Corinthians 9:23 (ESV)
We share with our families. It’s what we do! If we are close enough to share the common cold, aren’t we close enough to share something positive? Hugs, love, gifts, and the Gospel. Share the good stuff. Share the important things! Share God’s love and His Word. Family devotions make it easy.