If you’re feeling like this summer has already been a whirlwind, you’re in good company. Between camps, sports schedules, meal planning, cleaning and fun activities with friends, life can feel…busy! One thing parents often learn is that they must intentionally prioritize what earns a spot on the family calendar.
Sometimes family discipleship can feel like you’re adding one more thing to an already full plate, but it doesn’t have to be complicated or perfect to be meaningful.
Consider one of the most effective tools for teaching and discipleship: the “drip” method. This approach takes everyday moments that are already happening and turns them into opportunities for discipleship. Little by little, biblical truth is woven into daily life through simple conversations and intentional moments. Over time, these interactions build on one another and naturally become a regular part of your family’s culture.
You may be asking, “Where do I start? Do I need to have a plan before we begin?” Don’t overcomplicate it. Start by asking a question that sparks conversation while you’re in the car or gathered around the dinner table. For example, “What’s one way you showed love to someone today?” or “Why do you think it was important for Jesus to come to earth?”
These types of questions encourage kids to reflect on their lives while also helping parents assess their understanding of biblical truths. Topics might include ideas such as “God created me for a purpose” or “Jesus died on the cross to save me from my sins.” These conversations give parents a glimpse into what their children understand and provide opportunities to reinforce foundational truths that they need not only to know, but to truly believe and understand.
Bedtime prayers may already be part of your family’s nighttime routine, but consider encouraging your children to share what is on their hearts through prayer requests. You can also give them opportunities to pray aloud for one another. Another simple way to incorporate discipleship into your routine is to choose a Bible verse to memorize together each week or month. As you work through the verse, take time to discuss its meaning and talk about how it can be applied to everyday life.
It’s important to remember that you do not have to have all the answers to be a disciple-maker. In fact, one of the most impactful responses a parent can give is, “I’m not sure of the answer to that question. Let’s find out together.” This models humility and teaches children where to turn when they need answers. Opening God’s Word together demonstrates that Scripture is our source of truth and wisdom.
Discipleship naturally happens every day as parents guide, encourage and even referee their children through life’s challenges while pointing them back to Christ. However, having a guide can be helpful for being more intentional in discipling children.
There are many resources available, and many provide excellent devotions and discussion questions for families. One resource that has been especially helpful this summer comes from Brite, the company that provides the Kids at The Mill Sunday morning curriculum. It is simple to use and includes engaging questions and activities that work well for a variety of ages. The resource encourages Scripture memorization, Bible study and meaningful family conversations, while also providing fun activities to enjoy together. Find a resource that works for your family and take the first step.
Missed a day or even a week? Don’t stress. Just pick up where you left off and keep going. Discipleship is not about perfection. It’s about faithfully leading and loving your children as you point them to Jesus each day.
This summer, gather your family to talk, read, play and enjoy one another. May God provide opportunities for meaningful discipleship conversations, and may the Holy Spirit give wisdom as you lead your children. May your conversations continually point back to the foundational truths of Scripture, shaping your children’s understanding of who God is and His purpose for their lives. These small moments may seem insignificant, but they can make an eternal difference.
