When I was growing up, my mother established a wonderful pattern for our family. Every night before bed, she would gather us around her, open the Bible, and have us take turns reading a few verses. Afterwards we would all briefly discuss the passage, and then we would pray together. No matter how tired she was, my mother would always bring us to the Scriptures.
The experience my mother created for us is similar to what Moses asked the Israelites to do for their children in the book of Deuteronomy. They were on the Plains of Moab, getting ready to take possession of Canaan—the Promised Land. Moses repeated the Law that was given to the prior generation after their exodus from Egypt, while adapting and expanding it for a new generation of Israelites.
Moses set the priorities straight by highlighting the importance of passing on God’s Law to their children. First, they were to realize that their relationship with God should come before rules. He said, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength” (Deuteronomy 6:5). Second, their commitment was to be unwavering (Deuteronomy 6:6). Finally, they were to teach God’s wisdom to their children even in the most mundane activities, such as “when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up” (Deuteronomy 6:7).
Professor Don Whitney wrote, “God deserves to be worshiped daily in our homes by our families. And for that reason, start today.” May we, like the Israelites, make use of daily opportunities to worship God with our family. That time set aside will honor God and create a spiritual bond that will help us to stand united even when difficulties come.