Over the past semester, I was in a class called Introduction to Family Leadership taught by Dr. Randy Stinson. This class was very beneficial for what it means to be a father and leading a family. Even though 1 Timothy 3 consists of characteristics for those who desire to be overseers, each Christian should aspire to these godly characteristics - especially the one concerning the father's management of his household.
1 Timothy 3:4 - He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive,
Another passage that speaks to the father's management of his household is Deuteronomy 6:4-6:
4"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. 5You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.
Since the Bible is clear that fathers are to manage their households and teach their family the Words of the Lord, how would a father go about doing this with his family? The answer: A Family Devotion Time.
Of course, you can call it what you want. A family devotion time can be formal or informal and go by many names. The Puritans called this time "family worship" while others simply call it a "faith talk," or "family devotional time." Now, don't worry...this is not an hour long "church" service. It can even be as short as fifteen minutes.
Here is my definition of a family devotional time: fathers (if available) leading, praying, and talking with their families about the Bible at least one time a week.
So what is there to talk about? Here are some examples for a formal family devotion. For some families, a family devotional time might be reading passages or chapters of the Bible after supper one night. For others, it might be going through a devotional guide each morning before everyone leaves for work or school. A third option would be discussing the pastor's sermon during Sunday lunch. This is it! It does not call father's to be seminary educated. But, it does mean that all fathers, as well as mothers, must be in God's Word daily.
Another format for family devotions include talking about the things of the Lord informally. Some call this format "God Sightings." In other words, this is talking about the Lord as "you are walking along the way," or simply, as you go throughout your week. This might look like watching the sun rise or set as a family and talking about God's magnificent creation. Or it might be singing hymns or worship songs while going to or from school and work. Also, this informal format could consist of walks/hikes in the park, or other outdoor excursions. The possibilities are endless!
Lastly...ALL PARENTS...please do not neglect the activities of prayer and study of God's Word. You have the ability to give something to your children that is priceless and worth more than anything in this world...the gospel of Jesus Christ! We all need the gospel to remind us of the good news that Jesus Christ came to save sinners - including us and our children! Please do not neglect this wonderful duty and privilege of being the primary discipler of your children.
