Family Devotion 1: Fear Factor and Faith Theme: Trusting Jesus in the StormSuggested Time: Dinner Time Scripture: Matthew 8:23-27 (Jesus Calms the Storm) Activity:
Discussion Starter: Begin by asking, "What is something that makes you feel afraid?" Allow each child to share their thoughts. Read the Scripture: Read Matthew 8:23-27 together. Interactive Question: Ask, "What did the disciples do when they were afraid?" Discuss how they went to Jesus. Faith Exercise: Have each child draw a picture of a storm and then draw Jesus in the boat with them. Explain that Jesus is always with us, even when we are afraid.
Parenting Tip: Encourage your children to talk about their fears openly. Remind them that it's okay to feel afraid, but we can always turn to Jesus for help.
Family Devotion 2: Listening to the Right Voice Theme: Hearing God's Voice Over the StormSuggested Time: Bedtime Scripture: John 10:27 (My sheep hear my voice) Activity:
Discussion Starter: Ask, "What are some things you hear during the day?" Let them list sounds they hear. Read the Scripture: Read John 10:27 together. Interactive Question: Discuss how we can hear Jesus' voice. What does it mean to listen to Him? Quiet Time: Spend a minute in silence, encouraging kids to listen for God's voice in their hearts.
Parenting Tip: Create a calm environment before bed. This is a great time to teach children about listening for God's voice in the quiet moments.
Family Devotion 3: Jesus in Our Boat Theme: Jesus is Always With UsSuggested Time: Breakfast Scripture: Hebrews 13:5 (I will never leave you) Activity:
Discussion Starter: Ask, "Who do you like to have with you when you’re doing something fun?" Discuss why having someone with us makes things better. Read the Scripture: Read Hebrews 13:5 together. Interactive Question: How does it make you feel to know Jesus is always with you? Craft: Use paper and crayons to make a small boat. Write "Jesus is with me" on it and place it somewhere visible.
Parenting Tip: Reinforce the idea that Jesus is with them throughout the day, whether at school, home, or play.
Family Devotion 4: Rejoicing in the Storm Theme: Choosing JoySuggested Time: After School Snack Scripture: Philippians 4:4 (Rejoice in the Lord always) Activity:
Discussion Starter: Ask, "What makes you happy?" Let them share their happy moments. Read the Scripture: Read Philippians 4:4 together. Interactive Question: How can we choose to be joyful even when things are hard? Joy Jar: Create a "Joy Jar" where each child writes something they are thankful for or something that brings them joy. Add to it daily.
Parenting Tip: Encourage your children to find joy in small things and remind them that joy is a choice we make.
Family Devotion 5: Who is This Man? Theme: Understanding Who Jesus IsSuggested Time: Family Walk Scripture: Matthew 16:15-16 (Who do you say I am?) Activity:
Discussion Starter: While walking, ask, "Who is Jesus to you?" Let each child share their thoughts. Read the Scripture: Read Matthew 16:15-16 together. Interactive Question: Discuss what it means to know Jesus personally. Nature Observation: As you walk, point out things in nature and talk about how Jesus created everything and is powerful.
Parenting Tip: Use the walk as a time to connect with your children and discuss spiritual truths in a relaxed setting. Encourage them to see Jesus in the world around them.