127 | How to Teach Your Child Forgiveness Through a Simple Family Devotional Using A Rock Activity

Friend, has forgiveness been hard lately—especially when your child has been hurt or is learning to forgive? 🤍

If you’re ready to help your child understand forgiveness and put God’s Word into practice with a simple family activity, then this episode is for you!

In this simple family devotional episode, we explore Colossians 3:13 (NIV) and remember that we can forgive as the Lord forgave us. Samantha shares a childhood story about giving and receiving forgiveness, then offers a simple activity to help children picture what it can feel like to hold on to bitterness—and to release it to God.

📖 Bible Verse: Colossians 3:13 (NIV) — “Bear with each other and forgive one another. If any of you has a grievance against someone, forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

🧡 Today’s Simple Truth: Forgiveness is for me. With Jesus’ help, I can release bitterness and choose to walk in love.

📖 Family Bible Activity — Let Go of the Rock: Hold a small, smooth rock in a closed hand. Try a simple task with that hand closed, then set the rock down. Talk about what felt easier after letting go. Explain that releasing bitterness can help our hearts feel lighter, and ask Jesus to help your family walk in forgiveness.

💬 Family Discussion Questions: Why can it be hard to forgive? What can help us release bitterness? Why does Jesus want us to forgive others?

🙏 Short Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for forgiving us and showing us how to walk in love. Help our family release bitterness, receive Your forgiveness, and forgive others as You have forgiven us. Give us courage, strength, and wisdom, and guide us by Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, amen.

Friend, remember: forgiveness does not mean that hurt did not matter. If a child feels unsafe or is experiencing ongoing harm, tell a trusted adult or licensed professional (see disclaimer below). 

⭐ Next Step from Episode

👉 Be a Simple Devotions Insider for weekly encouragement: https://insider.getresponsesite.com/

👉 Book a 30-Minute Coaching Call with Samantha: https://calendly.com/hello-samwatson/call30

⭐ Website: www.samwatson.org

⭐ Join the iDevote International Children’s Ministries community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AqxmwjxRo/?mibextid=wwXIfr

👉 Instagram (@idevote_samanthamwatson): https://www.instagram.com/idevote_samanthamwatson/

🚨 EPISODE DISCLAIMER

The content shared on this podcast is for informational and faith-based purposes only. It is not intended as medical, psychological, legal, or professional advice. Please consult a qualified licensed professional in your State regarding your specific situation as needed.