Family Devotion 1: Walking by the Spirit Theme: Walking by the Spirit vs. Walking in the FleshSuggested Time: Dinner time discussion Scripture: Galatians 5:16 - "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh." Activity:
Discussion Starter: Ask each family member to share one thing they did today that was kind or helpful. Discuss how these actions might be examples of walking by the Spirit. Illustration: Use a simple analogy: Imagine you have two dogs inside you, one represents the Spirit and the other the flesh. Which one will grow stronger? The one you feed the most! Discuss what it means to "feed" the Spirit. Prayer: Pray together, asking God to help each family member walk by the Spirit and make choices that honor Him.
Parenting Tip: Encourage your kids by affirming their positive actions and gently guiding them to recognize areas where they can improve.
Family Devotion 2: The Battle Within Theme: The Battle Between Flesh and SpiritSuggested Time: During a car ride Scripture: Romans 7:19 - "For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing." Activity:
Discussion Starter: Share a story about a time you struggled to make the right choice. Ask your kids if they have ever felt like they were in a battle between doing what’s right and wrong. Role Play: Have each child act out a scenario where they have to choose between two actions—one that pleases God and one that doesn’t. Discuss the outcomes. Prayer: Pray for strength to make the right choices and for God’s help in the battle against the flesh.
Parenting Tip: Be patient and understanding. Share your own experiences to show that everyone struggles, but God is always there to help.
Family Devotion 3: Being Filled with the Spirit Theme: Being Filled with the Holy SpiritSuggested Time: Bedtime routine Scripture: Ephesians 5:18 - "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." Activity:
Discussion Starter: Ask your kids what it means to be "filled" with something. Use a glass of water as an example—when it’s full, there’s no room for anything else. Reflection: Have each child share one way they can invite the Holy Spirit to fill their lives more fully. Prayer: Pray together, asking the Holy Spirit to fill each family member and guide them in their daily lives.
Parenting Tip: Encourage your children to think of the Holy Spirit as a friend who helps them make good choices and live joyfully.
Family Devotion 4: Setting Your Mind on the Spirit Theme: Setting Your Mind on the Things of the SpiritSuggested Time: Breakfast time Scripture: Romans 8:5 - "Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires." Activity:
Discussion Starter: Ask your kids what they think about when they first wake up. Discuss how starting the day with thoughts of God can set the tone for the whole day. Mindfulness Exercise: Spend a minute in silence, thinking about something good God has done for you. Share your thoughts afterward. Prayer: Pray for God to help each family member set their mind on things that please Him throughout the day.
Parenting Tip: Model this practice by sharing your own thoughts and encouraging your kids to start each day with gratitude.
Family Devotion 5: Victory in Jesus Theme: Victory Over the FleshSuggested Time: After-school snack time Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:57 - "But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." Activity:
Discussion Starter: Talk about what victory means. Ask your kids to share a time they felt victorious. Victory Dance: Celebrate victories over the flesh with a fun family dance. Each person can share a recent victory and then do a little dance to celebrate. Prayer: Thank God for the victories He gives us and ask for His help in future battles.
Parenting Tip: Celebrate even the small victories with enthusiasm. This reinforces the idea that every step towards God is worth celebrating.