Feed their bellies, feed their souls: spiritual conversations with children

Years ago, I heard a wonderful speaker who encouraged dads and moms when they're eating around the table with their children to, “feed their bellies, feed their souls.” Meaning, take full advantage of the time you have when your kids are happy eating and bring up conversations about Jesus.

It’s a perfect time while they’re feeling satisfied with their food and sitting down. It’s a perfect time to engage and let them know what matters most to you. Your conversations don’t have to be long and drawn out.

My husband’s uncle growing up had a more formal time of devotional time with his children at the table. He would go through a book of the Bible, share what the Scriptures meant to his kids and then ask questions.

Some families read a devotional with their kids just before bed and choose a devotional book that is short and sweet. Some families have a time of prayer — allowing their children to pray for the needs of the day out loud. Some families memorize Scripture together or have some sort of challenge among their kids to earn a reward.

Every family is different, and there’s no set rules or formulas on how to bring Jesus into our lives each day. The important thing is to be intentional.

The beautiful thing about bringing up conversations about Jesus around the table is that it becomes like a discipline every day since everyone has to eat! Whether your kids are toddlers or teens, we all have at least five minutes in our day.

Here are some questions you might consider asking your kids while you’re feeding their bellies:

1. What is one special thing God showed you today?

2. Name two things you are thankful for today.

3. What were some of your challenges today and how do you think God can help you overcome them?

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