Guest Author By Ali Timmer Ali Timmer is a homeschooler, Christian, and teenage writer.

There is a belief going around that says that family worship is silly, old-fashioned, and above all, unneeded and useless.  But that’s a lie. We cannot give in to the belief that family worship is useless. On the contrary, Family Worship is probably one of the most important things you can do for your child. Family worship is beneficial to kids and adults alike. How? You might ask. Well, just to prove it to you, I will give you five solid ways that family worship has impacted me, a Christian teen, and will probably impact your kids too.

I’m struck time and time again by how often eschatological realities inform the daily practical outworking of Christian living. James gives a strong prohibition – don’t grumble against one another. He then reminds his audience of their family status – brothers and sisters. Like any good leader (or parent) he provides a motivating warning after the instruction – or you will be judged.

Generally, “neighbor” is understood in a geographical sense, referring to those who live near us. By this definition I can see focusing on our neighbors is indeed a wise strategy for serving God, as it starts right where we are, with those around us. As Christians, we are called to be kind, to build relationships, to earn the trust of our neighbors, and to share our faith and lives with them. Ultimately, we hope they come to know Jesus in a saving relationship, joining us in worshiping and serving God and living for His glory. More than simply becoming part of our church community, the true goal of focusing on our neighbors is for them to know Christ as their Savior. This focus on our neighbors holds several important advantages for our church’s mission, yet it also presents unique challenges.

A family liturgy guide to go along with Jesus as the Great Prophet.