Finding a family devotion can be quite a task. Don’t get me wrong, there are amazing books out there for families.
I needed one, however, to span ages, build on previous knowledge, and keep their interest. My kids love reading Bible stories. I want something our whole family can enjoy, comes from an actual Bible, and we can learn and engage in conversation at the same time.My kiddos range from ages 4-9. The ESV Family Devotional Bible has struck a chord with our whole family.
First of all, this is a complete ESV Bible. The ESV is a “word-for-word” translation of the original texts. Meaning each word of the original texts are translated rather than what is considered a “thought-for-thought” translation.
I am going to highlight the features of this Bible that are added to this version that I find to be so amazing they have my family running to the table to enjoy.
The Family Devotional Bible has 130 gospel story synopses. The featured stories are within the actual text that they come from. I find this to be an added feature because many times we want to expand or read parts directly from the Bible and it simply means turning the page.
Each story has a full-color illustration that draws you into the story.
The expressions and the detail are superb and add great understanding to the story.
After each story is a list of 3-4 questions for the family. We turned this into a game show type questioning and the kids loved being able to answer the questions. The questions are dig-deeper kind of questions. What I loved was each child could answer at their own level and still give great answers. (I was excited to see how well they listened and how much each of them knew.)
At the end of the Bible is a list of the synopses in order. Also, included is six colorful maps that have pictures to emphasize certain features like small and large cities, ports, and mountains.
Overall, I would recommend this Bible and Devotional for families seeking deeper family devotional time. Further understanding of key Bible stories and times well spent in the Word of God together.
Don’t keep this to yourselves. Having family time is an awesome way to get into God’s Word and build strong family units. Share this giveaway with your friends. Know someone who could use this Bible, sign-up and pass it along.
I am super excited to be able to give a copy of The ESV Family Devotional Bible away. This giveaway is open to US and Canada residents 18 years and older. Please see the guidelines below for complete details. Sign up in the Rafflecopter Giveaway Box Below!
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This devotional looks wonderful, Jamie. I'm a big fan of the ESV myself. 😉 Thank you for bringing this to my attention…stopping by from your very own link party! 🙂
…and one of my favorite Bible stories that I often reference with my family is Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Because of their "even if" faith. Because too often, I have "as long as" faith.
Isn't this true of all of us, Elizabeth. We want something for all we put in and sometimes forget our treasures lie where our heart is. We don't want to do things at any personal cost. What a great reminder, thank you, to do it "even if." Best wishes on the giveaway.
There is such importance to all the stories in the Bible…it's so hard to pick a favorite…but one I love is the story of Ruth/Naomi/Boaz. 🙂
Katy, You Are right. That does seem like to simple of a question with too complex of an answer. I know I can't name one story because they are all my favorite, depending on the day. My kids seem to always be drawn to Jonah and the Big Fish. Thanks for sharing and best wishes in the raffle!
What a wonderful version for Family Bible reading with a young family. Thank you for sharing with us here at Tell me a Story.
This is a wonderful version. My kids have really enjoyed it and it has been a great way to get the whole family involved. Thanks for stopping, Hazel.
The cover of this study reminds me of a set of Childcraft books we had when I was growing up. Thank you kindly for the give-away.
That is funny that you say that, Lora. My husband said the same thing. The pictures are very detailed and my kids have loved looking at them. If I start the story before they get to study the picture, they quickly remind me. Best of wishes in the giveaway!
One bible story I had fun sharing with my kids was when Elijah was having a contest with the prophets of the false gods. We were cracking up when Elijah recommended that they be louder in case their gods were in the bathroom. I just discovered your site and am eager to look around some more!
I love that story, too. It is can be kind of comical. I always picture Elijah taunting them. Which seems a bit much for a bible story but that is what I love about the Bible, it is real. Real-life can have funny moments in the midst of something like Elijah's story. Best wishes, Rachel.
The Easter story is my favorite story to tell and discuss with the family.
Yes, another story, I love to share. I asked for you all to share one story but truly so many of them excite me that it is hard to pick just one. I am glad you are here, Lisa. Best wishes.