All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living…
2 TIMOTHY 3:16
We all know someone struggling to connect with God’s Word. Perhaps they’re experiencing pain or loss. Perhaps they’re involved in something they shouldn’t be. Maybe they just don’t see how the Bible is relevant to them.
Whether it’s an aunt, uncle, parent, child, or a friend you consider family — how can we, as followers of Christ, help loved ones experience the transformative Word of God for themselves?
Here are three ways you can help your family get into God’s Word:
Be an Example.
God’s Word encourages us to set an example in what we say, how we act, and how we love. Why? Because how we choose to act and react has a lasting impact.
How can you set an example? Agree on a time each day when you’ll study the Bible together. (You could even memorize the Bible App’s Verse of the Day together.) Talk about Scripture whenever you have time together: at breakfast, on the way to school or work, and in the evening. Your interaction with God’s Word will influence how your family perceives God’s Word.
Make God’s Word Personal.
You can’t force your family to care about the Bible, but you can help them discover the value God’s Word can add to their lives.
Consider sharing a Verse Image from the Bible App with someone who needs encouragement or wisdom. If you have kids in your life, download the Bible App for Kids and complete a story together. Try reading from a Bible version your family can enjoy together. When you help your family see how they can apply God’s Word to their lives, they’ll be more likely to own their spiritual growth.
Keep Showing Up.
If growth doesn’t happen immediately, it’s normal to get discouraged. Remind yourself why you’re doing this: these are your people, and you love them. You know how much better your life is with God’s Word in it, and you want that for them.
Keep being diligent. When your family sees that your commitment to the Scriptures is an important part of your life and not just a phase you’re going through, this will impact them more than anything you say.
If you do start feeling discouraged, consider starting a Family Plan to keep your daily devotions on track. Surround yourself with friends who will encourage you as you pursue leading your family spiritually.
Ultimately, it’s not all up to you. God’s words have the ability to transform lives, but we get to play an active part in that transformation. You are not your family’s Savior — but you can be a cultivator of Spiritual growth.
Start engaging with God’s Word together on the Bible App and Bible App for Kids, and let us know what tools have helped your family grow spiritually.