FAMILY DEVOTIONS – for inspiration and guidance

A hectic schedule in a busy family – where both parents have careers, and children have after-school activities – often inhibits serious discussions. In a strong family unit, people communicate freely, expressing their feelings and their differences, and although such expressionism may appear to generate a greater level of conflict than in more inhibited families, communicative families are more likely to manage crises effectively, often growing in strength and intimacy through adversity.

Family devotions are designed to be flexible enough to allow for the most hectic family schedules, but doing devotions together as a family won't be easy, and you will have to set aside and schedule time for it in your busy schedule. Some of your children may even resist the idea, but don't give up; it will require commitment to stick with it each week. Family devotions will pay dividends in the lives of your children. Your family time with God, divided into devotion and prayer could cover relevant topics like taming the tongue, coping with problems, kindness to one another and worship, and will speak to the youngest up to the oldest members of the household, providing an element of fun while remaining reverent.

A family that appears to be in constant turmoil – arguing, discussing, expressing feelings – may in fact, be in better shape when it comes to coping than the quiet family where problems are avoided, and hostilities never openly expressed. Coming together for family devotions at a set time establishes a firm family unity and discussions about the day as well as issues in the news can be shared.

As parents, we are the primary teacher's for our children's spiritual development. The FamilyLife HomeBuilders series is a great idea for churches to use as a means to strengthen and encourage families. Family devotions will get your family talking and praying together---and help you teach your kids important lessons that will last a lifetime.