In the parable of “the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32),” the story shows a picture of our own lives before God. There must come a time when each of us says, “I will go back to my Father and say to Him, I have sinned against you. Forgive me.” God has accepted the death of Jesus on the cross as full payment for all our sins.
What was the result of the Prodigal Son’s decision to move away from his father? Have you ever experienced anything like that? What do you think motivated the Prodigal Son to change his mind and return to his father?
This parable is about our relationship with our Heavenly Father, who loves us so much. God loves us much more than any earthly father ever could. He loves us like a father and a mother combined! What was the Father’s attitude when he saw his son walking down the path? What can we learn from this about God’s love toward us?
There are basically 3 types of people in relation to the Father. Which one are you?
(1) RELUCTANT: I’m still in a far country, living my life the way I want to
(2) REALIZED: I’m just now coming to my senses, realizing I need to turn to God
(3) RETURNED: I’m enjoying the Heavenly Father’s forgiveness and acceptance
If you feel like you are #1 or #2, you need to come to God like the Prodigal Son – humbly asking for forgiveness and mercy. Because of what Jesus did for us on the cross, God the Father will totally forgive us of our sins.
PRAYER: Lord, we confess that we are all sinners and in need of forgiveness. Thank You, God, that You are a good Father who loves us very deeply. Thank You that You are willing to forgive us. Help us understand more about how to come to You in the way that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Go: Share this blog with another person and ask them which “type” they are.
Boris Joaquin is the president and chief equipping officer of Breakthrough Leadership Management Consultancy, Inc. He is also the founder of the Project Purpose Team, Inc, a corporate educator under the Duke CE Global Educators Network (UK), an accredited facilitator by the Blanchard Institute (US), a Chartered Professional in Human Resources CPHR® and a registered Investors in People® (UK) specialist.
A management and marketing professional, Boris was involved in various industries both local and international for more than two decades. As corporate trainer, management consultant and executive coach, Boris has served organizations in the Philippines, Asia, and the Middle East, providing assessments and consulting services to help organizations improve their people, management and organizational processes. He is presently the Regional Representative for Lead Like Jesus in Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand. Boris is married to Michelle Joaquin and has two daughters, Ysobel and Julia.
