This was adapted from the book “Habits of the Household” by Justin Whitmel Early. We talked about all the following 3 habits in group this week.

Key Takeaways

• Looking at screens first thing trains us to seek validation from technology rather than from God.
• Establishing a small routine of scripture reading before technology reorients us to seek God first.
• Gathering together in prayer transitions us from individual activities to shared purpose and frames the day under God’s direction.

Topics:

Habit of Waking #1: Make a Habit of Kneeling in Prayer Before Standing in Your Day

• Kneeling connects body and spirit and reminds us of God’s bigness and our smallness.
• It’s important to invite kids into the routine so they can observe and learn.

Habit of Waking #2: Make a Habit of Looking to the Scriptures Before Looking at Your Smartphone

• Looking at screens first feeds our desire for validation but can’t satisfy our spiritual longing.
• God’s word meets our deeper needs and anchors our identity in Him.
• Start small, like reading one verse, to build consistency. Rely on God’s power, not your own willpower.

Habit of Waking #3: Practice a Short Moment of Gathering and Sending the Family

• Transitions shape us more than static routines. Gathering to send frames the day under God’s direction.
• It will be messy at first, but persist through resistance.
• Bookend the day with gatherings, like a re-entry routine at day’s end.

Next Steps:

• Each person chooses a small habit to start this week.
• Share about implementation challenges/successes at next week’s meeting.
• Consider gathering as families before sending out each morning.
• Try establishing a re-entry routine at the end of the workday.