It's Me, I'm the Prodigal

It’s me, I’m the prodigal.

How often have I squandered my inheritance, chasing a life on my own terms, believing I had all the answers—only to find myself lost, hungry, and alone? I lived for the moment, seeking freedom, yet in the end, I was left longing for love, purpose, and a place to belong.

Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. - Luke 15:13

On a deeper level, this is me trying to fill the emptiness with anything and everything, avoiding His Word, ignoring the Holy Spirit, and silencing that still, small voice. It’s the struggle of believing my plans are better—only to realize they never truly satisfy.
 
“I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.” - Luke 15:19

When I come to my senses and remember my Father is beyond rich and has all of the answers, I come running back, much like the prodigal son. Except I forget His mercy and forgiveness, and think I need to grovel to earn/win back His love and approval.
 
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’’So they began to celebrate. - Luke 15:22 -24

He’s such a GOOD Father. He doesn’t make us pay or ask us to eat the leftovers as punishment for us going our own way. He lavishes abundant love, undeservedly. Why He loves us this way, after our repeated running and disobedience, I can’t fathom it. There’s no reason other than He IS love that is patient and kind. There is no holding out. He gives us the very best, even when we return in rags!
 
I asked a friend her thoughts on this parable, and her response was so pure it brought me to tears: “The prodigal son didn’t earn his way back - he simply returned to the father, and the father did the rest. Likewise, through Christ, we are not just rescued; we are claimed. We belong. We have a home with the Father, not because we deserve it, but because He chooses us as His own”

PRAYER: Father, forgive me for the times I forget that I am Your cherished child and try to navigate life without You, wasting the precious gifts You’ve given me. Thank You for always receiving me with open arms, overflowing with love, and for being the refuge my soul longs for. Please shape my heart to find contentment in Your will; and as my trust in You deepens, let my desire to stray fade away.
We'd love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments what God is speaking to you as you read these devotionals. If you haven't already subscribed to receive our devotional emails right to your inbox, hit the subscribe button below and invite your family and friends to subscribe as well! Thank you for being a part of our Opendoor Devotional Community. We appreciate you!
Posted in
Posted in

4 Comments


Plummer - March 27th, 2025 at 11:50pm

Encouraging, thanks . . .

Rebecca Alfred - March 31st, 2025 at 3:09pm

I'm glad you found this encouraging!

Bud - March 28th, 2025 at 8:01am

Thanks

Rebecca Alfred - March 31st, 2025 at 3:10pm

Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment :)