Why Sundays Aren’t Enough
Church is vital. Gathering with God’s people fuels our faith and encourages our walk. But if the only time our children see us open a Bible or pray is on Sundays, they may come to believe faith belongs only in a church building.
True discipleship begins in the home, woven into the daily and weekly rhythms of life.
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” (Deuteronomy 6:6–7, NIV)
Step 1: Start with Small, Daily Anchors
Faith doesn’t need to be complicated. Begin with one short practice your family can stick to:
- Reading a verse together at breakfast
- Saying a one-line prayer before school
- Sharing a “thank you to God” before bed
These anchors remind children that God’s presence covers their whole day.
Step 2: Use Ordinary Moments as Teaching Moments
Spiritual conversations don’t have to wait for devotion time. In fact, children learn best when faith is lived out naturally.
- On the way to school: “Is there someone we could pray for this morning?”
- During play: Talk about how God created colours, animals, or imagination.
- At bedtime: “Where did you see God’s goodness today?”
Step 3: Set a Weekly Family Habit
Choose one weekly rhythm that keeps faith at the centre:
- Family Devotion Night: Pick a short Bible story, ask one simple question, pray together.
- Worship Wednesday: Play a worship song and sing along while clearing the table.
- Service Saturday: Do one act of kindness as a family—write a card, bake for a neighbour, or tidy a local spot.
Step 4: Model What You Want to See
Children imitate what we do more than what we say. Let them catch you reading your Bible, hear you praying aloud for wisdom, or see you apologise when you lose your temper. Your lived faith is the clearest lesson.
Step 5: Celebrate God in Everyday Wins
When your child shows kindness, thank God together. When they face a fear, remind them God gave them courage. Celebration makes faith joyful, not burdensome.
Why This Matters
Faith that is lived out Monday through Saturday becomes part of your family’s identity—not just an event once a week. It builds a foundation that lasts into the teenage years and beyond.
“But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15, NIV)
✨ Parent Takeaway: Don’t wait for Sunday to disciple your children. Every meal, car ride, bedtime, and laugh is an opportunity to build faith into the fabric of your family’s life.