Life is about story. In this one epic story, God is the author and we get to each be a part of it. Isn’t that exciting? While we each are living out our story on God’s timeline of history, He somehow has a way of weaving people’s stories together. Often unaware, many of us play a role in the chapters of each other’s lives. But God is sovereign and He is intentional.
In the background of history, we see that the Bible backs this up. Before our very eyes, we clearly see within the pages of Scripture that our Heavenly Father works in the lives of men and nations. In addition, we see that He is the author and has control. Together with our families, we can share in the learning of these past events. And while we can’t survey our futures, we can increase our faith in God as we survey the Bible. So, buckle up because we’re going to take a tour of 11 tips for family Bible study.
1. The Why
This is huge for most everyone. Whether it’s in relation to our health, our chores, life responsibilities, education, or even studying the Bible, we have to own our why. It’s like figuring the destination. What good is it to hop in the car and drive with no place in mind? For the Christian, the why is because Scripture makes us “wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15). And because His word brings life (Psalm 119:25).
2. The How
Reading plans are beneficial. Not to mention a plan for you to come together as a family so that you can travel this road trip together. Along the potholes, smooth roads, and detours of life, you’re in it together. After all, it’ll be God’s Word that fuels you and helps you see life’s journey through the obstacles of life as a strong unit.
3. Prayer
Praying before you study for a clear mind and no distractions helps to equip your family for their Bible road trip. Equally important is to pray afterward, thanking God and asking Him to work in your hearts. Humbling ourselves before Him, worshiping Him, and calling upon Him keeps us in our place. It’s placing God in the driver seat and remembering that we are the passengers.
4. The questions
Reading is well and good. There has to be a starting point. But what good is it without asking questions? Coupled with questions, researching and learning more about Gods’ Word help to give a full picture of what has happened and will happen. Yes, on this road trip through the Bible, stop and ask questions. It’s really okay.
5. Discuss It
It might seem easier to just help a family member on the side and then move forward, but so much is missed when family study time is implemented in this way. You wouldn’t miss out on conversation during a long drive and with so much scenery before you all. Uniquely to each individual are varying levels of understanding, experiences, and observations. Questions asked by all ages can bring perspective. Even the youngest of children can present some thoughtful questions or insight.
6. Notebooking
A component to asking questions is finding answers. Of course, you’ll want to help your children through this process. Equally important is keeping a record of your studies in a notebook. When you notebook from your research, keeping a journal of your discoveries is a souvenir your family will appreciate having as a part of your experience.
7. Study tools
Naturally, you’ll need Bibles. Keeping a concordance on hand is also helpful. In addition, utilizing comprehension methods and strategies allow for your family to process information. They’ll serve you like tourist brochures. They give you information here and there that can add interest to your trip.
8. Creativity
Get out those craft supplies, color pencils, and crayons and let the creativity flow. From simple to elaborate crafting or illustrations, art is another great way to help process information. Happily, it’ll add perspective to your journey as you see it through each others’ eyes.
9. Memorization
In the first place, this sharpens the mind. It also allows for the brain to create a mind map of verses and events that fit together. This truly helps with making connections and helps to build comprehension. Sometimes, they add interesting side roads for you to enjoy exploring.
10. Old and New
From cover to cover, the Old Testament and the New Testament, the Bible is one book. It’s the unfolding of God’s story and we need to learn from both. As a matter of fact, we have a great deal to learn from it all. From hood to trunk, these testaments contain all the essentials for Christians on their journey (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
11.Unit Studies
Doesn’t the idea of using a unit study for the whole family sound like a time saver? Plus, it gives you the opportunity to visit the same locations in the Bible at the same time. It makes sense considering you’re on this journey together. Shared experiences are often the most memorable. And who wants to miss out on that opportunity?
Traveling as a Family
Parents are to make their children acquainted with God’s Word. This reminder is found in 2 Timothy 3:15. Furthermore, parents are to train up their children in the way they should go (Proverbs 22:6). There are many paths but only one leads to our Heavenly Father. And the Bible tells us how to get on that path through Jesus Christ.
Does all of this sound inspiring? That’s wonderful as it’s meant to encourage you to pursue study time as a family. Is something holding you back? There are many useful options you can research. Or there is this helpful resource to get you on your own Bible Road Trip sooner than later. However you choose to go, may you have a blessed trip together.
Bible Road Trip
Bible Road Trip™ is an engaging, fun, three-year Bible survey curriculum for preschool through high school. That means that if you start in preschool, you can take your child all the way through the Bible five times by the time he or she graduates from high school. Paired with leveled notebooking journals and Bible memory verse card sets, Bible Road Trip™ is a full solution for your family’s Bible teaching needs!