Maximizing Family Time: Biblical Principles for Stronger Bonds

I love the new year! While the execution does not typically pan out, I love the intention behind New Year’s resolutions. I love a good chance for a reset to start something new. 

Last June, my wife and I had our first child which means every day is new (and certainly an adventure!) as we learn all about being a family. With this newness, I have an opportunity to set my household's spiritual climate. For example, we can set an expectation that bedtime is always accompanied by scripture and prayer. And as my daughter discovers music, bright colors, and the smell of bacon on the griddle, we can choose to teach her about God’s design in all things as our creator. We can prioritize teaching about God when we walk, when we lie down and when we rise. 

Maybe you have been on the same course for a long time and introducing something new into the household routine, like prayer or scripture reading, might feel jarring and awkward. I encourage you to lean into the awkward and trust the Lord will show up. Believe He will bless your efforts and honor the time you are choosing to give to Him as a family. Some days will go better than others, and that is okay. Lamentations 3 tells us that “the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, and His mercies never come to an end.” In fact, those mercies are “new every morning; great is [His] faithfulness” (v 22-23). I challenge you to pray about something new you could add to your current routine that will draw you and your family closer to the Lord. Persevere through the difficulties and awkwardness allowing God to truly bless you as you seek to diligently teach your children all about the Lord. 

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Father, thank you for your steadfast faithfulness. Thank you for not holding my shortcomings over me, giving me new mercies each day. Show me where our family can start something new that honors you, adjusting the climate of our household for your glory. May my family be led by faith, through Jesus Christ. Amen.