Looking to engage your children in devotionals while unraveling Jesus’s profound teachings through His parables? Christian Children’s Author Deborah A. Ellison and EA Books Publishing have just released a new book to guide your efforts. The King and His Kingdom: Devotions for Kids from the Parables of Jesus is an insightful devotional book that explores each parable of Jesus and makes devotional time with kids meaningful and enlightening. Each page allows children to discover the scripture, the main point, and how to put the parable’s meaning into action. Deborah fosters a deeper understanding of spiritual concepts by sharing a simple retelling of the parable. Likewise, Dave O’Connell’s beautiful illustrations and artwork add to a child’s discovery of the transformative power of the timeless lessons of Jesus’ parables to everyday life situations. I can’t wait to tell you more.

Importance of Having Devotions with Your Kids

In today’s fast-paced world, where distractions abound and our busy schedules take priority, time with Jesus can be forgotten. Since our children learn more from what we do than we say, it is essential to have devotions with our kids. Then, we show them what it means to have time to study God’s word and change our behaviors based on what we learn. Therefore, leading kids during devotional times is crucial to their spiritual development. Devotional time offers a structured opportunity for kids to connect with their faith on a deeper level. During these moments, they can develop a personal relationship with God. Engaging in devotionals helps children understand the importance of Jesus in their lives, guiding them through the complexities of growing up in a world filled with competing influences.

Moreover, devotionals provide a safe space for children to ask questions, express doubts, and share their thoughts. This open dialogue nurtures their curiosity about faith and encourages them to seek answers in scripture. As they delve into Jesus’s parables, children begin to comprehend the foundational principles of Christianity. These moments can be transformative, helping them internalize lessons that will shape their character and decision-making throughout their lives. Consequently, they develop a lifelong habit of seeking spiritual nourishment and guidance.

Additionally, leading devotionals fosters family bonding and creates cherished memories. When parents and children engage in these practices together, it strengthens their relationships and allows for meaningful conversations. The shared experience of exploring scripture can lead to deeper understanding and respect for one another’s perspectives. As families grow together through devotionals, they create a spiritual foundation that can withstand external pressures and challenges, ensuring that faith remains a vital part of their lives.

Understanding the Scriptures Containing Parables in the Bible

First, Deborah Ellison helps us understand the scriptures that contain the parables. Each page begins with a scripture reference, where you and your child can read the parable directly from the Bible. Found primarily in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, these stories convey spiritual truths through relatable circumstances. Each parable helps us understand the nature of God’s kingdom.

The context in which Jesus shared these parables is also critical. Many of these stories were told in response to His audience’s questions, challenges, or situations. Understanding the historical and cultural background can help explain the parables to kids, making them more relevant and accessible. For instance, discussing the societal norms of Jesus’ time can illuminate why certain behaviors or choices were highlighted in the stories. This context enriches the teaching experience and encourages children to think critically about the lessons.

Furthermore, reading the scriptures teaches children that devotions should not be done apart from God’s Word. As children engage with the text, they can learn about the characters, settings, and conflicts that shape each parable. By guiding them through the scriptures, parents foster a love for the Word that lasts a lifetime.

Understanding the Main Points of Each Parable

Once the foundation of scripture is established, it becomes essential to identify and articulate the main points of each parable. Deborah includes a section on each page that identifies the main point. This specific message or moral addresses God’s character (The King) and the nature of the His Kingdom. Therefore, parents can present them to children in a digestible and engaging manner. For example, the Parable of the Good Samaritan emphasizes loving and caring for everyone. At the same time, the Parable of the Lost Sheep illustrates God loves you and wants you to belong to HIm.

Moreover, understanding the main points of each parable allows for a more interactive devotional time. Instead of simply reading the stories, parents can encourage children to express their interpretations, ask questions, and share their thoughts on the moral implications. This participatory approach makes the learning experience more enjoyable and deepens their critical thinking skills. As children learn to articulate and reflect on the main point of each parable, they develop a stronger spiritual foundation that can guide their choices and help them take action.

Helping Kids Take Action and Apply the Parables of Jesus

The third section of each page is to take action. Teaching children about the parables of Jesus extends beyond understanding the stories; it involves inspiring them to take action based on the lessons learned. Helping kids apply these biblical teachings in their daily lives is crucial. It fosters a practical faith that influences their behavior and interactions with others. Deborah effectively includes opportunities for children to practice the lessons they’ve learned through intentional activities and discussions. For instance, after exploring the Parable of the Talents, children are encouraged to identify their unique talents or skills and use them to help others.

Incorporating real-life scenarios into devotional time can also facilitate the application of the parables. Parents can discuss situations children may encounter, such as conflicts with friends or opportunities to lend a helping hand. Parents can empower children to make choices that align with their faith by using these discussions to explore the parables. This hands-on approach solidifies their understanding and fosters a sense of responsibility in their spiritual journey.

Additionally, connecting scripture with real-world applications helps children see the relevance of their faith, leading to a more profound commitment to living out the Parables of Jesus in their everyday lives. Get your copy here.

Be sure to subscribe to receive updates from the Children’s Christian Authors Blog. Follow us for book reviews, free resources, parenting tips, and encouragement. #christianchildrensauthors #christianbooks #christianauthors #christianwritiers #christianteachers #christianchildrensbooks #parablesofJesus #dawnstephens #dawnstephensbooks

By Dawn Stephens