“Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them 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, NLT)
When you think about discipling your children, do you imagine complicated family Bible studies or long theological lectures?
The good news: one of the most powerful ways you can disciple your child happens every single night — at bedtime.
In ancient Jewish culture, discipleship wasn’t reserved for special moments — it was woven into daily life. Rabbis taught not just by giving lessons but by modeling life with God in ordinary, repeated moments.
Bedtime is one of those moments.
Your child’s heart is softest at bedtime.
After a busy day, the quiet and comfort of bedtime create a natural opportunity for connection — both with you and with God.
Why Bedtime Matters for Faith Formation
- Children are most open: Emotionally, their defenses are down. Their hearts are tender.
- Repetition builds memory: A repeated blessing, prayer, or Scripture read nightly carves deep spiritual grooves.
- Bedtime is symbolic: It reminds us that we can rest because God is watching over us — an early lesson in trust.
When you take even 5-10 minutes each evening for simple spiritual practices, you’re planting seeds that will grow far beyond childhood.
Here is a great devotional for kids by Louie Giglio called “How Great Is Our God: 100 Indescribable Devotions About God and Science (Indescribable Kids)”.
Discover the Wonder of God’s Creation!
From space and time to wild animals and pink lakes, How Great Is Our God by Louie Giglio invites kids (ages 6–10) to explore 100 devotions packed with fascinating science facts and powerful truths about God.
With stunning photos, fun illustrations, and amazing discoveries, this devotional deepens kids’ awe for the Creator of everything!
Simple Ways to Disciple at Bedtime
1. Bless Your Child Out Loud
Speak a short blessing over your child every night. It can be as simple as:
“May the Lord bless you and keep you safe tonight. May you know His love while you sleep.”
2. Pray Together
Let your child pray in their own words. If they’re young, guide them with a simple sentence starter:
“Dear Jesus, thank you for…” or “Jesus, help me with…”
3. Read or Recite Scripture
Choose a small verse for the week. Read it together nightly. Children’s minds memorize through repetition naturally.
Example:
“When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.” (Psalm 56:3, NLT)
4. Tell a God Story
Share a very short story from your day where you saw God’s kindness, help, or beauty.
(Example: “Today, I was really tired, but I asked God for help — and He gave me strength to finish everything!”)
Tips for Parents
- Stay Consistent: It doesn’t have to be elaborate — it’s the regularity that builds memory and meaning.
- Stay Patient: Some nights will be chaotic. That’s okay. Keep the tone peaceful and loving.
- Stay Adaptable: As kids grow, bedtime rhythms can grow too — eventually becoming late-night conversations or prayer journal sharing.
- Stay Focused on Connection, Not Performance: It’s about relationship, not checking off a task.
Remember
The few minutes you spend each night will echo for a lifetime.
You are not just tucking them into bed — you are tucking God’s truth into their heart.
As the ancient rabbis understood, small daily practices shape disciples far more powerfully than occasional big events.
Tonight — even if it’s messy and imperfect — whisper a blessing, say a prayer, and remind your child they are loved by God.
You are building a legacy, one bedtime at a time.
Here is another great devotional for kids called “The Chosen for Kids Book One: 40 Days With Jesus“. Each of the forty devotions includes a Scripture, a closer look into a Gospel story, prayer time, and questions that lead you further in your relationship with God.
This is for older kids, ages 8-12, but it can be used with kids of all ages. As a parent you can take a look at decide. Click here to see a sample!
