Key Text: Luke 15:20 KJV - And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

The story of the prodigal son and his father paints a vivid picture of what happens between the backslidden believer and the heavenly Father. God is yearning and waiting for such a time when the backslider will realise himself, arise and come back home. The moment he takes the first step, God will run to him with compassion to receive and restore him.

It is not enough to realise your folly and be sorry for wondering away; God will do nothing until you have taken the first step to return home. The challenges you are experiencing right now maybe as a result of disconnecting from fellowship with the Father. He chastises His prodigal children to bring them back home.

Later maybe late but it is not too late now. Act now by rising up and taking the first step. The Lord is just waiting for you to make that first move and He will swing into action to get you fully restored. Come back home and enjoy the abundant life that Jesus procured for you with His precious blood at Calvary.

Prayer: O Lord, Let your chastisement draw me towards you and not away from you, in Jesus name. Amen.

Reflection: Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest - Matthew 11:28.