Gather with Gratitude: Devotionals for the Family

The phrase 'I'm too busy' is a very popular and common phrase in our society. Are you used to hearing it from friends? What about your coworkers? If you haven't heard it much, then chances are very high that you are one who often says it…or at least, thinks it. Right?  

The reality is, you are busy, no doubt. Between dropping kids off at various sporting events, after-school events, and weekend family time- to grocery shopping, meal prepping, getting in a workout, and Lord willing- cleaning the house! There's nothing wrong with being busy, and it's not sinful. However, what we prioritize, or more so, what we don't prioritize, can become a sin when we don't make time for some of the most important things. Where are you putting Scripture into your day?  What about prayer time? And how about a personal connection with the Lord?  The most important work we can do as believers is to stay connected to God and His Word daily. Our prayer is that this blog not only encourages you to find time in your day and shift some priorities, if need be, but also gives you some ideas on just how to do that.  

Gather right before dinner

This has been a really successful time in our family because typically one of us is cooking, and so my husband or I will grab a devotional, and the kids will sit with us as we read it. Then, what's perfect is that it creates an automatic segway into dinner discussion to talk about what you read while you eat as a family. 

Personal quiet time

I know this one can be pretty self-explanatory but let me explain a little deeper. Quiet time looks different for everyone--it may be a short walk in the neighborhood, taking a bath, going on a run, etc. So, as you choose your quiet/destressing activity, I highly encourage you to grab a book or download an audiobook and dive into a devotional OR some one-on-one prayer time with God. 

Right before bed

This is one where you can do this as a family (especially if you have littles!!) or with your spouse, or even individually. It's not only a great way to end the day with time with the Lord, but it also prepares our hearts before we drift off to sleep and can prepare us to wake up encouraged and ready for the day.  

Driving to work/school

This is a great one because who wants to sit in traffic and be miserable or stressed? Instead use that time to listen to God's words, hear a devotional, or just pray out loud as you drive. 

Psalm 119:105  

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

 

Recommended Devotionals & Resources: 

Desiring God by John Piper

This resource includes devotionals, full book suggestions, and podcasts. There are so many great articles and messages to explore!

Resource: DesiringGod.org> 

New Morning Mercies, by: Paul Tripp

Wednesday Word, by: Paul Tripp  

This is a great resource where devotionals are sent directly to your inbox! 

Sign-up here: Wednesday Word- A weekly devotional> 

RightNow Media 

Thousands of devotionals online! NCA parents have FREE access to Right Now Media. You can access your account under "resources" in Blackbaud. Here are just a few Right Now Media Devotionals we recommend: 

• • Faith Foundations, by: David Platt  
  • Teaching Students to be on Mission, by: Francis Chan  

Resource: Right Now Media> 

Reads Truth

This is a great resource that provides various bible reading plans that are fun and fit your schedule! Check out their reading plans and podcast.

Resource: She Reads Truth> 

The Bible Recap KIDS' Devotional, by: Tara Leigh Cobble 

The Bible Project

This is another one of my favorites! It has everything from videos, guides, podcasts, and even classes. I love watching their videos because I always walk away with a better understanding of God's word.  

Resource: The Bible Project>

Colossians 3:2  

"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth"

 

What I want you to hear as a key takeaway is this: Being in God's Word is one of our daily needs and it should be a priority, but also, allow yourself grace. Again, it's ok to be busy, but I assure you of this: God has given enough hours in the day for you to accomplish every task He wants you to. May you feel as filled, fed, and closer to God as you go through the following list.