Helping Children Get More Out of Worship

Have you ever wondered how to help your children engage in worship more? Do they sit there not knowing the words to the hymns or new worship songs? Have you ever stopped to think if they understand what they are singing anyway?

The family devotions that I just completed are trying to help parents answer these questions. What did I do? I took the songs we most often sing in worship at Hesston MB and picked one for every week. I printed the lyrics for parents and then asked them to sing, listen, or read the lyrics to the songs. Then I posed the following questions for them to discuss:

• Are there any words or phrases you do not understand?
• What does this song teach about God, Jesus, Holy Spirit, Grace, Bible, Salvation, Faith & Heaven?
• What Scripture comes to mind as you listen to this song?
• Underline or highlight 5 of the most important words or phrases. Have each family member pick one and share why it is important to them.

My hope is that through discussing these questions and singing the song in the home, families will grow in the area of worship. As families better understand the God we serve, the more heartfelt and meaningful worship becomes. I hope this helps you and your family as you seek to worship at home and on Sunday.