July 9 - Pity the Prodigals

 Read today’s texts first: Micah 1-4; Hebrews 6

MAXIMize YOUR DAY

We often have to reach rock bottom
before we reach up to God again for help! 

As we read through the spiritual decline of Israel and the harsh words in Hebrews about apostasy, it becomes clear: it just might be better to be a pagan than a prodigal, at least in the short run. Those who don’t believe in God seem to struggle less with guilt and shame. The Bible says their consciences are “seared” (1 Tim. 4:2) – they’re basically numb. Recent readings in the psalms suggest that the wicked may also be more prosperous (73:3-12).

Let’s face it, those who have experienced the goodness of God and then walk away know what they’re missing. On top of that, they have people praying for them, prophets warning them, and God constantly trying to humble them to bring them to repentance. When we become arrogant and think we know better than God, we often have to reach rock bottom before we reach up to God again for help!

Remember the pig slop moment in the story Jesus told about the prodigal son (Luke 15:13-17). God disciplines those He loves, especially those who once loved Him (Heb. 12:6,7).  It is hard for parents to watch their prodigals suffer, but it is an important part of the process. It’s a good indication that God is answering our prayers. It may just get worse before it gets better, but don’t stop praying. The first three chapters of Micah seem pretty bleak but Israel and Judah both needed to be taken into captivity before they would ask God to set them free.

The promise in chapter four may encourage both the prodigals and their parents: “In that day,” declares the Lord, “I will gather the lame; I will assemble the exiles and those I have brought to grief. I will make the lame a remnant, those driven away a strong nation.”  The Lord will rule over them in Mount Zion from that day and forever....now many nations are gathered against you. They say, “Let her be defiled, let our eyes gloat over Zion!” But they do not know the thoughts of the Lord; they do not understand his plan (4:6,7,11,12).

“Lord, You do indeed have a plan for Your prodigals and we will never give in or give up praying for Your plan to prevail.”