Family Worship Guide – Short Version (Updated)

Family, family worship 2 Minutes

Originally posted: January 23, 2021; Updated: June 2022 and October 20, 2023.

I have updated my longer guide for family worship. For some, it may have too much information. You may just need the bullet points and basic information. Below is the shortened version. Remember this is simply a guide, not a law!

  • Set Aside a Time or Event – There is no wrong time to have family worship. Set aside a time that works for you. You may be able to do it every day. You may only be able to set aside two days each week. Either way, setting aside time for family worship is essential to persevering in it.
  • Make the Purpose Clear – State the purpose for family worship. Restate it often. For example: “We are setting aside this time to learn about God and then lovingly respond to God in worship.”
  • KISS: Keep It Simple Sam! – Overcomplicating things will lead to burnout. While a simple format may not seem like much in one day, the long-term benefits will be meaningful.
  • Read the Bible – Again, don’t overcomplicate it. This is not a race to get through the Bible. Try a simple Bible reading plan, or work slowly through a book of the Bible. If you have small children choose a Gospel-centered story Bible or children’s book. See the longer version of this guide for examples.
  • Memorize Scripture – Have a simple plan. Perhaps choosing a short Psalm to memorize would be helpful. Try Psalm 117 for starters (TWO VERSES!). See the longer version of this guide to see what our family is currently using.
  • Sing – Be regimented or more casual but sing as a family. Gospel-centered choruses and kid’s songs are a good place to start. “The Doxology” is always a rich and helpful starting place. Try “Jesus Loves Me.”
  • Pray – Pray as a response to what you have learned. Share prayer requests with one another. Pray for your church family, missionaries, and like-minded churches.
  • Involve Other Family Members – Have others in your family participate in age and ability-appropriate ways. Ask others to read, pray, or sing. Ask them questions. Let them ask questions.
  • God Is Gracious – Be Gracious to Yourself and Family – When you fail do not fall into despair! Instead, look to the Lord Jesus whose love for you is eternally the same.
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