Family Devotions

Family devotions can include lots of things. At the very least, it is a time when the father gathers his family for a time of Bible reading and prayer. It seems to me that doing this on a regular basis is a great idea. Here are some reasons – in no particular order –  why I think so.

·          It’s a good way for parents to keep that vow they made when their children were baptized which included:

+         setting before the children a godly example

+         praying with the children

+         praying for the children

+         teaching them the Gospel

·          This is one way to establish the habit of talking about spiritual things, something that too many feel awkward about.

·          It’s another opportunity to read the Bible and pray – and that’s always good.

·          It’s an opportunity for the father to show his leadership. The children, both the boys and the girls, need to see male leadership in action, especially when it is a matter of caring for the spiritual welfare of the family.

·          It’s a time when the children get to see their father’s own piety being expressed. They need to see piety in action and not just hear about it.

·          It will show that the Bible is actually practical as the father relates the Gospel to the children’s daily living.

·          It establishes the importance and habit of prayer. Fathers will teach their children how to pray as they listen to him pray.

·          It provides an opportunity for the children hear their father pray for them. This can become a rock of assurance to the children that they are loved.

·          And maybe best of all, Jesus deserves to be worshipped and the family needs to see that.