5 Summertime Devotions for Families

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge." (Psalm 19:1-2)

Step outside for this family devotion and take in the wondrous sights of God's creation. What unique shapes are forming in the clouds? What constellations are lighting up the sky? Reflect on God's glory displayed throughout the heavens and sing songs that declare His handiwork, such as "Awesome God" or "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever."

Psalm 91:4-6 says, "In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun. It is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, like a champion rejoicing to run his course. It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit to the other; nothing is deprived of its warmth."

Devotional activity: Take sketch books on your family outing and draw what you see in the sky. Day and night, His heavens proclaim the work of His hands!

Devotional prayer: Lord, thank You for everything You have made. The heavens declare Your glory, and we declare it too! In Jesus' holy name, amen.

"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1)

This devotion is perfect for warm summer evenings on the back patio. Gather supplies for s'mores and have a meaningful discussion about faith. Point out those in your family who exhibit strong faith in Jesus and list what you admire most. Worship together, singing hymns of faith such as, "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" and "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus."

James 2:14-17 says, "What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."

Devotional activity: Recall the faithful men and women from Hebrews chapter 11 who trusted God no matter what. Write thank-you notes to friends and family members who have been a good example to you.

Devotional prayer: Lord, thank You for the gift of faith to trust you in all things. Help me pattern my life after those who are wholly devoted to You. In Jesus' name, amen.

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"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." (Galatians 5:22-23)

It wouldn't feel like summer without fruit trees and vegetable gardens, so visit your local farmer's market for this summertime devotion. Discuss the fruit of God's spirit as you view the colorful produce. Remind one another of God's abundant provision and how He cares for your family. On the way home, turn on the music and sing to songs such as "Way Maker" and "The Goodness of God."

Isaiah 58:11 says, "The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail."

Devotional activity: Fill a bag with fruits and vegetables and deliver to a friend in need. Or, if you enjoy baking, turn fresh peaches into a homemade pie for your neighbor.

Devotional prayer: Lord, thank You for giving us the fruit of Your Spirit. Please produce Your character in us and help us spread your love to others. In Jesus' name, amen.

"And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" (Acts 20:35)

During the school year, there's not much extra time to volunteer as a family. Summertime, however, provides ample opportunity to get involved in a community outreach. Take time to pray for those in need and make a list of people you can bless over the next few weeks. After prayer, have a time of worship by singing “Give Thanks.”

Philippians 2:4 says, "Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

Devotional activity: Brainstorm ways you can bless others with small gifts or acts of service. One idea is to put together John 3:16 bags with bottled water, snacks, and the Gospel of John. Hand them out to people on the street or the homeless in your community.

Remember, God loves a cheerful giver, and there are lots of people in need. Giving is fun when you're blessing someone in Jesus' name!

Devotional prayer: Lord, please show us who needs a blessing today. We want to be cheerful givers, in Jesus' name, amen.

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor." (Ecclesiastes 4:9)

Along with summertime fun, there are still household chores to be done. Use this devotion as a reminder that we are to be good stewards of what God has given us. Working together is much more fun, and tasks are completed much faster. Turn on praise and worship music to get everyone motivated. 

Hebrews 10:24-25 says, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Devotional activity: Create a chore list out of poster board and colorful markers. Let older children create the chart, while younger children decorate it with stickers. Rotate household chores each week so everyone gets a chance to try something different. Encourage everyone to pitch in with a good attitude and willingness to help.

Devotional prayer: Lord, thank You for giving me a family to do life with. Show me ways I can help and serve them without complaining. In Jesus' name, amen.

More Resources for Summertime Fun:

7 Fun Summer Activities

14 Fun Summertime Activities to Teach Kids about God

How to Have a Summer of Simplicity

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