Now if anyone in this parable, the elder son is the one that most likely reflects the attitudes of the Pharisees. They were so judgmental; so critical; so filled with a lack of understanding of Who God is and what He’s really like. And that’s just the way a lot of us are. We want the LORD to be what we want Him to be. And when we do that we miss out on what He’s really like. And, think about is. Had the older son any love for his brother, he would have gone out after him and re-claimed him from his sin.
Now, let me make an application of the parable to us for today. Have you ever thought of God like this? He is an infinitely holy, loving, kind, cheerful, good, merciful, just, faithful, generous, forgiving, ever-present, generous, wise, and unchanging Father? And the greater attention I give to the fact of the Fatherhood of God, the more I enjoy simply knowing what my Heavenly Father is like, the greater likelihood I have of becoming more like Him. Just think how great it is to see the LORD as He truly is. Here’s what He’s like. Now let me close with these words about God. First, the LORD is always after the soul of the person. His heart aches for each one to come into a personal relationship with Him. And He wants you to know Him well. Second, He’s a true Father. He’s got an attitude towards us that constantly wants to do what is in our best interest. He’s emotionally stable and can personally handle any of your problems. He’s fully aware of your feelings. Third, He’s your highest authority figure yet with a heart of absolute love for you. And He’s always attentive to your needs. He’s always available and He’s never abusive. Fourth, He’s forever faithful. Fifth, He’s continually generous. Sixth, He loves you period. |
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