How to Start a Family Devotion (Even if You're Busy)

Have you ever sat down with the best intentions to read the Bible with your kids—only to find yourself interrupted before you even finish a verse? Someone spills their water, someone else is wiggling on the couch, and before you know it, you’re frustrated and ready to give up.

You’re not alone. Many parents feel like family devotions need to be long, complicated, or perfectly quiet to “count.” But the truth is, God can use even ten minutes of intentional time to plant seeds of faith in your children’s hearts.

The good news? You can start small. And small, consistent moments often add up to the biggest impact.

4 Simple Steps to a 10-Minute Family Devotion

1. Take it Little by Little

You don’t need to tackle an entire chapter every night. Keep reading the same book of the Bible little by little. Do half a chapter or even a paragraph with your family.  Even a single verse can spark great conversations.

2. Give Hands Something to Do

Kids learn better when they’re engaged. Instead of fighting distractions, invite them into the story with something hands-on. Coloring a Scripture Scroll and our toddler companion printable can keep little hands busy while their hearts and minds stay focused on God’s Word.

3. Choose a Consistent Time

Find a moment that naturally fits into your family rhythm—after dinner, before bed, or even in the morning with breakfast. Consistency matters more than length. When kids know what to expect, they’re more likely to join in without resistance.

4. End with a Simple Prayer

You don’t need the “perfect” words. Invite your kids to pray in their own words. Even a one-sentence prayer like, “Lord, thank You for Your Word. Help us love You more each day,” can make Bible time meaningful. Learn to pray scripture as you fill in your scroll. Our Scripture Scrolls have a space to record prayers as your journey through that particular book of the Bible. 

A Tool to Make It Easier

When I first started reading the Bible with my kids, I quickly realized that keeping them engaged was the hardest part. That’s why I created Color in Truth—to give families a way to bring the Bible to life, one chapter at a time.

Instead of worksheets or screens, the Scripture Scroll invites kids to color as they listen, helping them remember Scripture and enjoy Bible time together.

Ready to Try It?

To help you get started, I’d love to gift you a free Psalm 23 printable. It’s a great way to begin family devotions—short, simple, and deeply meaningful.

👉 [Download your free Psalm 23 banner below]