Background
Today I spent time reading Luke 15 — the famous chapter where Jesus tells the story of the prodigal son. It’s a story many of us have heard before, but this time, it hit differently.
It made me reflect on life, on how we handle what God gives us, and how easily we can drift away without even realising it.
But the most powerful reminder?
No matter how far we go, God is always waiting — not with punishment, but with celebration.
Here are 7 lessons I took away from this chapter that I believe can bless your life too.
1. God Gives When We Ask — But What Do We Do With It?
The story starts with the younger son asking his father for his inheritance — and surprisingly, the father gives it to him.
This shows us something deep:
God doesn’t withhold from us. He listens. He gives. He entrusts.
But the real question is: what do we do with what we’re given?
Whether it’s money, time, talent, a relationship, or a calling — we’re responsible for how we use it. Receiving is one thing. Managing it well is another.
2. One of the Most Important Life Skills Is Management
The prodigal son had resources, but he lacked wisdom. He wasted everything and ended up with nothing.
It’s a lesson for all of us:
- Do you manage your income or just spend impulsively?
- Do you manage your time or always feel like you’re behind?
- Do you manage your emotions or let them lead you?
You can’t keep what you can’t manage.
And God multiplies what we handle with care.
3. Don’t Lose the Kingdom Values You’ve Been Taught
It’s easy to forget the principles we grew up with — especially when we get a little independence, a little money, or enter new environments.
The prodigal son left home and forgot his values. But when life humbled him, those values resurfaced and led him back.
If you’ve been raised with kingdom values — things like honour, love, patience, integrity, prayer — don’t let life erase them.
Hold onto them. Revisit them. Teach them.
They’re more valuable than gold.
4. The Secret Place Is Where We’re Meant to Stay
The prodigal left the covering of his father’s house — and that’s when things fell apart.
There’s something powerful about staying connected to God, staying under His guidance, His presence, and His wisdom.
That’s the secret place. The place where:
- Protection is guaranteed
- Provision is constant
- Peace is real
Abide in the Kingdom. Stay connected. Don’t let noise or freedom pull you away.
5. It’s Okay to Feel Angry — But Don’t Let Anger Lead You
The older brother in the story got angry when he saw the celebration for his lost brother. His anger clouded his joy and made him forget his position in the family.
We all get angry. That’s human.
But what we do in our anger matters:
- Don’t walk away from your assignment.
- Don’t destroy relationships.
- Don’t speak words you’ll regret.
Let anger pass through — not drive you.
6. Let Love Lead, Always
If the father in Luke 15 had followed rules instead of love, the story would’ve ended in rejection.
But instead, he ran to his son. He hugged him, restored him, and celebrated him — no lectures, no delay.
We need to love like that:
- Love without keeping score
- Love that restores
- Love that forgives before the apology
Let love be the voice in your home, business, relationships, and ministry. Because love leads better than rules ever will.
7. No Matter What You’ve Done, God Still Wants You Back
This one is personal.
So many people feel like they’ve messed up too much.
They’ve sinned. They’ve strayed. They feel dirty. Disqualified. Forgotten.
But Luke 15 proves otherwise:
- The father never stopped watching
- He never stopped hoping
- He celebrated the return — not the mistake
God loves it when a sinner returns.
If you’re reading this and feel far from God… I have good news for you:
You are not too far gone. You are not beyond grace. God is ready to receive you with joy — not shame.
There is a celebration waiting for you.
There are angels preparing a welcome party.
All you have to do is come home.
Final Reflection: Come Back. Be Celebrated.
Maybe you’ve drifted. Maybe you’ve been careless with what you were given.
Maybe you’ve been angry, lost, or just tired.
Let this be your reminder:
You can always return to the Father.
You can come back to purpose, to peace, to love, to God.
And when you do, you won’t be punished — you’ll be celebrated.
📩 If this message spoke to you, pause and talk to God today.
Tell Him: “Father, forgive me of all my sins and trespasses. I invite you into my life to be my Lord and Saviour.”
No fancy words needed. Just your heart.
And if you need someone to pray with you or talk to, feel free to reach out. You’re not alone — and your journey back can start today.
