Text:
Luke 15:11-21
Memory Verse:
“But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!’” (Luke 15:17).
It is amazing that people in trouble fail to see what others can see about their situation. This heartwarming storytells of a young man who clearly and correctly interpreted his situation. He suddenly realised that he had no business suffering the way he was. Even the hired servants back in his home had enough to eat and to spare and here he was begging to eat swine pods! Worse still, he was not permitted to.
Hagar was running away from Sarah’s harsh treatment after she had misbehaved because she was pregnant with Abraham’s child (Genesis 16:5). The Angel of the Lord who counselled her said, “Return to your mistress, and submit yourself under her hand.” Onesimus had wronged Philemon, but had met the Lord through Paul. Now a changed man and in his right senses, Paul was able to send him back home to his master (Philemon 1:10-18).
How well are you assessing your situation? Do you understand why you are where you are workwise, healthwise, relationship wise and financially? Are you keeping the right company or are you fraternising with people who cannot tell you the truth? Many people cannot tell you the truth because they do not know it, while others will not tell you so your situation can be like theirs. Are you also giving others good advice or are you leading them on?
If you come back to your senses and realise you are wrong, repent, return and apologise for your actions. You will be received and restored.
Prayer Points:
1. Lord, grant me the grace to be honest in my assessment of myself, so You can be pleased with me.
2. I receive help to make amends for my actions.