Regularly Study God's Word As A Family

Jehovah God gave family heads frequent reminders of their responsibility to teach their children. Such instruction would equip the children for the present life and could also help to prepare them for the life to come. An angel representing God pointed out to Abraham his responsibility to teach his household so that they would "keep Jehovah's way." (Genesis 18:19) Israelite parents were told to explain to their children how God had delivered Israel from Egypt and how he had given them his Law at Mount Sinai, in Horeb. (Exodus 13:8, 9; Deuteronomy 4:9, 10; 11:18-21) Christian family heads are admonished to bring up their children "in the discipline and mental-regulating of Jehovah." (Ephesians 6:4) Even if only one parent serves Jehovah, that one should endeavor to teach the children Jehovah's ways.-2Timothy1:5: 3:14, 15.

This does not mean that family study of God's Word is only for households where there are children. When a husband and wife have a family study even if there are no children in the home, this shows fine appreciation for spiritual things.-Ephesians 5:25, 26.

To accomplish the most good, instruction needs to be given regularly, in harmony with the lesson that Jehovah taught Israel in the wilderness: " Not by bread alone does man live but by every expression of Jehovah's mouth does he man live." (Deuteronomy 8:3) Depending on the circumstances of the family, some households may arrange for a weekly study; others may have shorter study sessions on a daily basis. Whatever arrangement you choose, do not leave the study to chance. 'Buy out the time' for it. Paying the needed price for such time is a sound investment. The lives of the members of your family are at stake.- Ephesians 5:15-17; Philippians 3:16.

Next time: Objectives To Keep In Mind