The Generous Father

"He also said, “A man had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the estate I have coming to me.’ So he distributed the assets to them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered together all he had and traveled to a distant country, where he squandered his estate in foolish living. After he had spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he had nothing. Then he went to work for one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. He longed to eat his fill from the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one would give him anything. When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired workers have more than enough food, and here I am dying of hunger! I’ll get up, go to my father, and say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I’m no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired workers.”’ So he got up and went to his father. But while the son was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed him. The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I’m no longer worthy to be called your son.’ “But the father told his servants, ‘Quick! Bring out the best robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Then bring the fattened calf and slaughter it, and let’s celebrate with a feast, because this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’" - Luke 15:11-24

Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son isn’t just about a rebellious child—it’s about a Father who runs. A Father who watches the road every day. A Father who isn’t just willing to forgive, but eager to restore. That’s who God is.

Too often, we approach God as if He’s keeping score—counting how many times we’ve failed, hesitant to help us unless we’ve earned it. But Jesus flips that script. God is generous—not just with wisdom, but with love, mercy, and grace. He doesn't give reluctantly. He gives joyfully. He doesn't sigh when you ask for help again. He rejoices that you came back.

When you see God as this kind of Father, you stop holding back. You start running toward Him instead of away from Him. And you begin to trust that He actually wants to lead and guide you, even after you’ve messed up.

Reflection Questions:

• What view of God are you operating from—a scorekeeper or a generous Father?
• How might it change your prayer life to believe that God delights in giving you wisdom and guidance?
• Is there any area of shame or failure keeping you from coming to Him right now?

He doesn’t give sparingly. He gives joyfully, generously, and without keeping score.

Prayer:
Abba Father, thank You for being better than I often believe. Forgive me for seeing You through the lens of fear and shame. Remind me today that You are a Father who runs toward me, not away. Help me rest in Your generosity. Amen.