Why Do Family Devotionals at Dinner
As a family, we love doing family devotionals during dinner. This is the easiest time of the day because everyone is home and sitting together. Many studies show eating dinner as a family has a considerable positive impact on kids. Here are some reasons you might want to try family devotionals during dinner.
1. Spiritual Growth
Regular devotionals provide an opportunity for family members to grow in their faith. Together you can study scripture and learn about God’s teachings, giving the family an opportunity to learn biblical principles and reinforces faith, helping children to build a strong Christian foundation.
2. Encourages Prayer Life
Family devotionals emphasize the importance of prayer, promoting a habit of seeking God’s guidance and strength in daily life. We like to pray before we start devotionals together. Prayer is easily forgotten in daily life with kids, so I find building “habits of prayer” helpful. The best times to build “habits of prayer” with your kids are before dinner and bed.
3. Creates a Safe Space to Sharing
Bringing everyone together for devotionals cultivates a sense of unity and family fellowship, offering a supportive environment where family members can express their struggles and victories. Creating a safe space also encourages vulnerability and honesty.
4. Promotes Biblical Values
Discussing Scripture encourages conversations about morals and values rooted in Christianity, guiding family decisions and behaviors.
5. Teaches Servanthood and Love
Emphasizing Christ’s teachings on love and service inspires family members to care for one another and others in their communities, reflecting Jesus’ love.
6. Instills Gratitude and Worship
Taking time to acknowledge God’s blessings fosters a heart of gratitude, encouraging family members to worship Him together as a unit. I feel that in America we especially have a hard time being grateful because we have been given so much. This is a good reminder for our children.
7. Prepares for Lifelong Faith Practices
Establishing a routine of devotionals instills the importance of spiritual practices, guiding children as they grow to continue these habits in their own families.
I recommend all Christian families try to incorporate dinner devotionals, even if it is just once a week. We love how it brings us together giving us a common purpose to love Jesus and each other. Give it a try you might find it nurtures spiritual growth, encourages strong values, and fosters a deep sense of love and unity within your family, creating a lasting legacy of faith.
