CHOSE a Bible Study Book

"I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against [God]." Psalm 119:11

The Bible has been a key component to our family and also our homeschool efforts. Studying the Bible is an integral part of our studies and normally how we start out the day. I did not grow up in a home where we talked or studied the Bible. I grew up in a Catholic home, the church was part of our life, but only for special occasions or holidays. It was not until I was in my late 20's that I found that the Bible was something I could apply to my life. My desire is for my children to have the word of God as part of their life and starting them at an early age should help the Word of God to dwell in their hearts. The end goal and desire if for all my children to give their life to Jesus. And my job is to teach them about God. 

Have an inductive bible

I've chosen to use the Discover 4 Yourself books by Kay Arthur. We also use the New Inductive Study Bible (NISB). The kids have colored markers that they use to write on the Bible without it bleeding through to the other pages. They mark the Who, What, How, When, Where and Why of the scripture we are studying. I chose this series because it would teach them how to study the Bible inductively. An inductive Bible study consists of three parts or questions. Observation: What does the passage say? Interpretation: What does the passage mean? Application: How does the passage apply to me?The books have crossword puzzles, games, charts, and places to draw. 

Make it real!

We also memorize a Bible verse that goes with what we are studying. For example in the book of Genesis we memorized Genesis 1:1-10. 

It may seem daunting to have your children memorize a verse, but you will be surprised at how much they can retain. Even my 5-year-old twins were able to memorize half of the verse. You just need to make it fun and do a little each day, before you know it they will have it memorized. 

To have your children participate remember to make it fun. You can act out what you are studying, or re-enact the scenes with stuffed animals or finger puppets. Make crafts that go with your study. For example, in Genesis, you can do a project with animals and the ark to bring the story to life. There are tons ideas on Pinterest. 

While you study the Bible with your children, remember that they also pay close attention to what you do. Live out the Word of God in your daily life so that they can model their behavior. And remember your children are never too young to start hearing and learning about God. If you have young children, have them join in on the fun. They may not understand everything, but they will be learning much more than you think.