Reading Psalms to Children

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Allan came in this morning as I was reading my Bible, so I read him the portion of Psalm 34 that was part of my reading. As I read to him, it occurred to me that reading the Psalms not only identifies the character of God and the paths in which He wants us to walk, but it also identifies how He views and relates to those who choose not to walk in His ways. Conviction and fear would be the result of a consistent reading of the psalms to those who are not right with God. That's another good reason to read the Psalms to children.

34:16 The face of the LORD is against evildoers, To cut off the memory of them from the earth.

34:21 Evil shall slay the wicked, And those who hate the righteous will be condemned.

I was challenged recently to learn that the Stam family, from which John Stam the martyred missionary to China came, began every meal of the day with Bible reading. Each place setting had a Bible and all shared in the reading.

This strengthens my resolve to incorporate more regular Scripture reading into the fabric of my family’s life.

Comments

Anonymous said…
My wife and I don't have children yet, but when we do (God willing) I've purposed to make this a daily part of our lives. In addition to my personal scripture reading in 2007, I've been praying my way through the Psalms. I've found it great preparation for articulating my own prayers to God. Good post!
12:31 PM
Anonymous said…
Very good thoughts. I heartily agree. Blessing, Phillip Dickinson
7:05 PM
The Dickinsons said…
Great thoughts. I heartily agree. I also left a new comment under an old post -- "How to Fight for Joy." (May 14) -- I'm mentioning this in case you do miss it. Phillip Dickinson
10:02 PM
Anonymous said…
Some of my fondest memories of family devotions were the times my Dad would read the Psalms. I also remember my Grandpa reading Psalms for family devotions when I would visit my Grandparents in the summer. I think the fondness with which I recall those times is related to your reasons listed.
-Joshua Rogers
9:20 AM
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