4 Practical Family Rhythms from Deuteronomy 6
Parenting is one of the most rewarding roles that many of us have been afforded — and it can also be one of the most challenging. Unlike professional careers that have weeks of new employee training and onboarding, parenthood has no official training manual and mostly involves on-the-job training.
Fortunately, as Christians, we have a guidebook for life — the Bible — which is full of wisdom that can guide us through the wild journey of parenthood. The Bible makes it very clear that we have one main role as parents: To teach our kids to love God and to love others. In Matthew 22: 37-39, Jesus specifically tells us that these two things are the most important commandments.
So, how do each of us do this in our own unique parenting journey? Let’s break this down and make it simple…
The key is to build intentional spiritual rhythms into your existing family routine! In fact, the Bible gives us 4 ways we can teach these rhythms to our kids using the daily routines we already have in place. Deuteronomy 6:4-7 says,
“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 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.”
This is very clearly instructing us to tell our kids about God when….
- “….you sit in your house,”
- “…you walk by the way,”
- “…you lie down,”
- “…you rise.”
These are all things your family is already doing! Easy right? Great, now let’s break this down into some practical ideas….
“When you sit in your house…”
Life is busy, and we are rarely sitting together as a family. But, most often, everyone is sitting to eat! So, mealtime is a great time to connect as a family. No matter if it’s breakfast or dinner, choose what is best for your family. Check out this blog article that highlights the many benefits of family mealtime and 5 practical ways to make it happen.
“When you walk by the way…”
Many parents find that conversation is easiest while driving in the car, as kids tend to be more open to talking about things when there is no direct eye contact. For younger children, this may just be listening to worship music together. For older children, use this opportunity to ask questions and have deeper conversations.
Another great option for families is to go on a walk around the neighborhood after dinner. You’ll be surprised by how the conversation flows. And, a bonus: You’re staying active as a family!
“When you lie down…”
Bedtime can be one of the sweetest times for a parent-child relationship. Create a special routine with your child by cuddling, talking about the day, singing Jesus Loves Me together, reading their Bible, and praying. This will look different as your kids grow older, but it can still be a great opportunity to connect spiritually. For teenagers, it might just look like a hug and a quick prayer before they head into their bedroom.
“When you rise…”
Sure, mornings can be stressful. As chaotic as these times can be, we need to look at them as an opportunity — an opportunity to intentionally encourage our kids and center them on God as a starting point to their day. Set them up for a great day by slowing down the pace of the morning. Pray with them as they go out the door every morning or even in the car on the way to school. Need some more help? Check out our podcast, 3 Things You Should Say to Your Kids Before They Go out the Door
These 4 family rhythms are a great opportunity to show your child that your faith isn’t just something that happens in church, but it should happen at home too. Remember, there’s no such thing as a perfect parent — we are all going to make mistakes. But, if we can be intentional about implementing a few of these family rhythms, we can help equip our children to have a healthy relationship with the Lord all through their day.
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Looking for More Great Resources?
Let Bible2School, experts in engaging children with the Word of God, help equip you in sharing God with the children in your life. We have a variety of resources designed just for you.
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Jesus called us to LOVE our neighbors. But, how do we love them? One way to do this is to pray for them. As a family, set aside a focused time of prayer specifically for those living in your neighborhood. A fun and engaging way to involve your kids in this is by going on a Neighborhood Prayer W.A.L.K.