Building a Family Faith Routine: Simple Ways to Lead Your Kids Toward God
Building a family faith routine might seem daunting at first, but I’ve discovered that even small, consistent actions can make a world of difference in helping my kids grow in their relationship with God.
Here’s a closer look at simple ways to lead your kids toward God—and demonstrate the love of Jesus through your actions.
1. Demonstrate Jesus Christ in Your Daily Life
We hold a position of authority in our children’s lives as parents. They look to us not only as caregivers but also as role models. The way we talk, act, react, forgive, extend grace, and pray can leave a lasting impact on how they view God.
What your kids believe about you, they’ll probably believe about God. This truth has become more evident to me as I’ve watched my own children. The more I reflect on my actions, the more I realize that how I interact with them shapes their understanding of who God is.
If we’re always angry or upset with our kids, they may associate God with anger. If we fail to follow through on promises, they may struggle to trust in God’s faithfulness. But if we’re patient, kind, forgiving, and grace-filled, they’ll see a reflection of God’s character in us.
One evening at a worship night, my three-year-old daughter turned to look at both my husband and I in the middle of worship, hands raised, eyes closed. Then she threw her hands up in the air too, joining us in worship. Though she had been primarily focused on her snacks earlier, this moment of witnessing our worship made her want to participate too.
Even at her age, she was soaking in what she saw and mimicking it. Our children are watching, learning, and picking up on how we live out our faith every day.
2. Eat Dinner Together
Family dinners are more than just an opportunity to nourish our bodies; they’re an important time to nourish our souls as well. Jesus sat around the table with His disciples, sharing meals and deepening relationships. There’s something deeply spiritual about sharing a meal together as a family.
Eating dinner as a family is an intentional way to bond, reflect on the day, and express gratitude for the blessings in our lives. It fosters communication, strengthens connections, and builds a sense of community—something that mirrors the biblical concept of "breaking bread."
Beyond the spiritual aspect, there are also proven benefits to regularly eating meals together as a family. Studies show that children who eat together with their families tend to have better mental health, make healthier food choices, and are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. Regular family dinners also promote higher self-esteem and resilience.
As a mom, I’ve learned to treasure this time. It’s a moment to slow down, share, laugh, and talk about God’s goodness, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
3. Pray Together
A family faith routine doesn’t have to be overwhelming. One of the simplest ways to nurture your children’s faith is by praying together. Whether it’s before a meal, right before bed, or even as soon as they wake up, a short prayer can make a huge impact.
When we first started praying with our kids, we kept it simple and short. We didn’t want to overwhelm them, but we did want them to know that prayer is a natural part of our day. Over time, we’ve encouraged our oldest to pray on her own, explaining that prayer is a way to talk to God.
I remember one morning when we were about to leave for church, I was buckling in our youngest child when I noticed my three-year-old with her hands folded, eyes closed, and head bowed. When I asked her what she was doing. “Praying!” she said. “About what?” I asked. “About everything! ‘Bless Mommy. Bless Daddy. Bless our house…’” She went down the line.
This little moment reminded me that even our simplest actions—like praying before a meal or bedtime—can have a lasting impact on their hearts and minds.
4. Listen to Worship Music
Another easy way to incorporate faith into your daily routine is by playing worship music. As a mom, I’ve come to realize that the messages kids hear—whether through TV shows, music, or conversations—shape their worldview. Though secular music may seem harmless, it often sends subtle messages that conflict with God’s truth.
Instead, fill your home and car with worship music. Sing along, dance, and allow your children to see the joy that comes with praising God. When my daughter was just two years old, she knew the lyrics to several worship songs. She didn’t fully understand the words, but she was soaking them in. I’m convinced that this early exposure to truth will stick with her for years to come.
5. Go to Church Every Sunday
I get it—going to church with young kids is not always a peaceful, picture-perfect experience. There are bathroom breaks, snacks, and restless moments in the service. Sometimes it feels like the effort isn’t worth it, especially when you’re running late or struggling to keep the kids calm.
But church is not about a perfect, serene worship experience—it’s about faithfulness and commitment. By taking our kids to church, we’re teaching them that faith isn’t just about feelings or convenience; it’s about making time for God, even when it’s challenging. Because someday they’ll get a job and they may not want to go, but they have to be committed and faithful to it. Someday they’ll get married and they may not always “feel it,” but they uphold their covenant by sticking in and fighting for their marriage. Going to church models that commitment.
When you go to church consistently, you’re also providing your kids with a community of believers who can support and guide them as they grow in their faith. Church is an important place to cultivate relationships, and someday, when your children start seeking independence, they’ll benefit from having a solid foundation of community.
6. Express Gratitude Regularly
Gratitude is a powerful tool in shaping our hearts and minds. We’ve made it a practice in our home to ask our kids, “What was the best part of your day?” and “What are you thankful for?” every night at dinner. Even though our daughter may sometimes give a silly or random answer, she’s learning to look for the good and to focus on blessings, no matter how big or small.
Gratitude is a weapon against anxiety, fear, and negativity. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 reminds us to “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” By practicing gratitude, we’re teaching our children to focus on God’s goodness and not just on what’s going wrong.
7. Keep Your Bible Out and Open
One of the most effective ways to show your children the importance of God’s Word is by reading it yourself and keeping it visible in your home. Don’t hide your Bible away—let your kids see you reading it, and be open about what you’re learning.
We bought our daughter a storybook Bible for Christmas, and she loves to pick it up and have us read it before bed. Sometimes she even asks to read it before her Paw Patrol storybook. She sees us reading the Bible, and she wants to do the same.
When we talk about what we’re reading in the Bible, even in casual conversation, we’re modeling a lifestyle of being in the Word. Make a habit of discussing what you’re reading in front of the kids, helping our kids to understand Scripture and how it applies to their lives.
Final Thoughts
Building a family faith routine doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. By incorporating simple practices like praying together, eating meals as a family, and leading by example, you can help your children grow in their relationship with God.
Remember, every moment matters. Your children are watching, listening, and soaking up everything you do. The way you talk, act, and react can shape their understanding of who God is. So take the time to model Jesus Christ, make time for family dinners, express gratitude, and stay connected to God’s Word.
It’s easy to forget that small, everyday moments are shaping your child’s faith. But these moments matter more than you know. Keep pressing forward, even on the days when it feels messy, imperfect, or overwhelming. The love of Christ will shine through, and your kids will grow in their love for Him too.