The Upper Room Devotional 17 October 2023
The Upper Room Devotional 17 October 2023 , Tuesday Message by Nnamani Chidinma (Enugu State, Nigeria)
TOPIC: Returning to God
TODAY’S READING
Luke 15:11-32
The father said to his servants, “This son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” So they began to celebrate. – Luke 15:24 (NIV)
After receiving his share of the inheritance, the son in the parable from Luke 15 left home and lived wildly. When he was in need of help, he remembered his father again. He must have felt ashamed of his actions and wondered if his father would ever forgive him. But returning home was the best decision that the son could have made. The father joyfully welcomed his lost son, kissing him and calling for a celebration.
When we fall away from our faith or offend God, we may feel undeserving of God’s mercy. But this parable reminds us that God always forgives. God sent Jesus to redeem us from our guilt, shame, disbelief, and unfaithfulness. We may think that our sin could never be forgiven, but God is always awaiting our return.
No matter how far we may feel from God, God longs for our return and waits with open arms. Let us take action today by acknowledging our shortcomings and asking for God’s mercy and love. God has been searching for us and awaits our return.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Lord God, thank you for choosing us. We seek the path that leads to eternal life and pray for the courage never to depart from your side. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
God is always ready to receive me.
PRAYER FOCUS
Those who feel unworthy of God’s mercy
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