Biblical truth is always understood best through relationships. Our God is a God of relationships and not rules. Before we can begin Faith Talks (family devotions) in our homes, we first need to create open and transparent relationships with our kids. Parents who have a heart connection with their kids are more likely to influence them spiritually. Here are a few tips to develop heart connections with your kids.
o Before we can truly understand our kids, we need to be able to understand ourselves. We need to know the strengths and struggles we bring to parenting and understanding how our kids see us. Do they see you as a safe place where they know they will be heard and loved, even when they mess up?
o Be present. Spend time with your kids for no other reason except to know them better.
o Words of affirmation. We live in a harsh world. This world is screaming all sorts of different lies at our kids. The words our kids hear day in and day out are brutal. The words and truth that we speak into their lives can combat those lies. It can be an armor that will soften the blow. Our words have so much power.
o Let them hear that you are proud of them not because of what they accomplish but because of who they are.
o Let them know and feel that you are for them and not against them.
o When they know you love them unconditionally regardless of whether they succeed or fail then you have established a connection that goes beyond circumstances.
Faith Talks (Family Devotional) - This is an intentionally scheduled time each week for families to look at God’s Word and discuss what He is showing you.
Helpful Tips:
o Consistency is key. Create a consistent meeting time and place each week. Keep it sacred because it needs to be.
o Depending on the age of your kids, these can be brief. It’s amazing to see what God can do in as little as 5 minutes.
o Create an intentional environment. Sit down at the table or on the couch together, turn off all screens and put the phones away. And remember, bribes are your friend (yes... we really did just say that). Providing a fun snack can be a helpful way to keep kids excited and engaged.
o Not every Faith Talk is going to be a winner. God will still use it because you are creating spiritual habits. You may not see change right away but with consistency over time you will.
o Have fun! Fun can open the door to so many different things so allow for plenty of laughter and silliness.
o Use the resources RH provides through the app, Legacy questions and RH groups.
o Let these talks act as a launch pad for conversations with your kids throughout the day (God Moments).