WE ALL NEED FORGIVENESS (3)                                Luke 15:25-32

And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: (v29)

(3) The path of freedom from the hog pens of life is paved with repentance and surrender to the will of the Father. The return of the younger son (vv 17-32) He finally-Verse 17 states – “When he came to his senses, he said, “How many of my father’s hired men have food to spare; and here I am starving to death.” He stated further “I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” (v19 CDB) and there was reunion (vv 20-27) But while he was still a long off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him, he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. The son said to him, “father; I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” (CDB) The condition of our hearts is not revealed so much by outward religious behavior but by our attitude toward people and God. The scribes and Pharisees resented Jesus for welcoming sinners who desired forgiveness, but in reality, they were in worse condition because they refused to recognize the sinfulness of their hearts, and therefore, no need to seek forgiveness from God.

As you read this message, search your heart and genuinely ask yourself if you are in a similar situation of unforgiveness, anger and resentment. (The Outline Bible, The Classics Devotional Bible)

PRAYER LINE: Father, I come to You with a repentant heart and help me to receive the good news that You welcome me into Your arms. Amen.

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We need forgiveness to be received into His arms.