The Prodigal Child

Do you have a prodigal in your life?

Are you a prodigal child?

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The Prodigal child leaving

A prodigal child by definition is a child that rebels against his/her upbringing and shows extreme defiance for an extended time.

Andrea Merrill states in her book, Praying for the Prodigal, that more than 80% of children raised in church will leave the church after they turn 18.  About half of those will return.

Jesus told a parable about the Prodigal son in Luke 15: 11-32

 

If you are a prodigal:

  • What are you rebelling against?
  • Who are you hurting most in the process? Is it yourself?
  • Don’t be afraid to go home!
  • Find a pastor or Christian counselor to speak with.
  • Don’t forget that God Love YOU!

 

Usually the prodigal child has to hit rock bottom before returning home. Never cease praying.

Usually the prodigal child has to hit rock bottom before returning home. Never cease praying.

If you have a prodigal child:

  • Keep loving them
  • Pray without ceasing
  • Establish boundaries
  • Seek counseling
  • Remember sometimes you have to get out of the way to allow God to work
  • Don’t judge
  • Listen when s/he is ready to talk

 

If you know someone with a prodigal: 

  • Don’t judge
  • Listen
  • Pray for them and their child

 

Recommended Reading:

Be Ready and willing to open your Prodigal home with open arms and a loving heart

Be Ready and willing to open your Prodigal home with open arms and a loving heart

Praying for the Prodigal by Andrea Merrill

Prodigals and Those Who Love Them by Ruth Graham Bell

Praying the Armor of God by Rick Steadman

Prayers for Prodigals: 90 Days of Prayer for Your Child by Dr. James Banks

Praying Prodigals Home by Quin Sherrer

Praying Your Prodigal Home by Richard A. Burr

 

Resources and Articles:

Prodigal Child Ministries

Loving Your Prodigal: A Focus on the Family Article

Loving the Prodigal Child Article

 

You will find posts about my life as a prodigal child here at Rebel to Redeemed: The Life of a Prodigal Child

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