Summer Discovery Bible Study: Simple Ways to Connect Your Family with Scripture

Without the morning rush and evening homework, summer is perfect for establishing meaningful Bible time rhythms with your kids.

While summer schedules can range from flexible to chaotic, and a daily commitment of each morning or night might feel challenging, consider picking one rhythm that your children can expect. This might be a daily rhythm of mornings or you might pick one to two times a week to read these stories together when you know your family will be together. Remember that consistency matters more than perfection. The goal isn't polished lessons but creating space for discovery together. Children remember these shared moments of wonder and connection. 

3 Ways to Share Bible Stories Together

Breakfast Conversations 
Many parents find mornings work well for short Bible readings. Stories like Jesus feeding the 5,000 or David and Goliath naturally spark questions while everyone gathers around the table. Children often make surprising observations when given space to wonder.

Example DBS: 

1. The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) - Learn about loving your neighbor

2. Jesus Feeds the 5,000 (John 6:1-14) - Discover God's provision and generosity

3. The Lost Sheep (Luke 15:1-7) - Explore how much God values each person

4. Creation Story (Genesis 1:1-2:3) - Marvel at God's creative power

5. Jesus Calms the Storm (Mark 4:35-41) - Find peace in trusting Jesus

Outdoor Discoveries 
Reading outside connects Scripture to creation. A shady spot in the yard becomes the perfect place to explore how Jesus calmed a storm or Noah built an ark. Children naturally incorporate what they see around them into their understanding of these ancient stories.

Example DBS: 

1. Noah's Ark (Genesis 6:9-9:17) - Perfect for outdoor exploration and animal connections

2. The Sower and the Seeds (Matthew 13:1-23) - Examine real plants and soil while learning

3. David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17:1-50) - Act out this brave story in an open space

4. Jonah and the Big Fish (Jonah 1-4) - Discuss God's mercy in a natural setting

5. Jesus Walks on Water (Matthew 14:22-33) - Reflect on faith near water if possible

Evening Wind-Down After busy summer days, bedtime readings of the Good Shepherd or Jesus blessing the children create peaceful moments of reflection. These quiet times often lead to heartfelt questions and conversations about faith.

Example DBS: 

1. The Lord is My Shepherd (Psalm 23) - Comforting bedtime message of God's care

2. Jesus Blesses the Children (Mark 10:13-16) - Reminder of God's love for children

3. Daniel in the Lions' Den (Daniel 6) - Story of courage and faithfulness

4. The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) - Learn this special prayer together

5. Jesus and Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10) - See how Jesus changes hearts

Tip: If you've never explored the Jesus Storybook Bible, many of these stories we've mentioned can be found there in short story form that only take a few minutes to read. The stories are told in an engaging story-form way that also helps point each part of the Biblical narrative back to Jesus. 

A Simple Structure

Use the Jesus Family Time bookmark format with each passage:

• Share gratitude and concerns

• Read a Bible passage together

• Ask what stood out to each person

• Talk about what it reveals about God and people

• Close with a simple song