Read: Luke 15:11-24

Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him. Isaiah 55:7 

     Probably everyone has wanted to run away at one time or another. There are many and varied reasons for this. They include problems at home, problems with the church, or maybe just a desire to get away from oneself – which is impossible. The prodigal son left his home for the freedom that he imagined was out there somewhere. Before you run away, take a moment to ponder some reasons why most prodigals never return. 

1. Every step taken away from God on the easy road down demands taking a like step to come back. Retracing one’s steps is difficult because sinful habits are hard to break. 

2. Boundary lines once crossed are easily crossed again. Every violation of conscience makes the next violation easier. 

3. To leave is to go into the far country of fleshly living. This is far removed from the Father’s house of holiness and self-denial. 

4. One’s life is wasted. The good things are squandered. It is hard to return after spiritual ruin. 

5. Sin is pleasurable, at least in the beginning. Sin is riotous but candy-coated. If the devil showed what is concealed, who would touch it? 

6. Pride is a strong master. The backslider is too proud to return and beg for mercy. 

7. Sin is insane. Its ravages cause the prodigal to lose his or her sense of reason. 

Is there a way back? Yes, there is! “And when he came to himself” (Luke 15:17). In the midst of his misery and lostness, the prodigal remembered his father’s house. This is the first step in returning. 

~James Baer