Daily Devotional

COMING BACK TO HIM IN SUBMISSION AND HUMILITY

December 18

eloved, have you ever lost something valuable and were very upset and hurt for the loss? Did you ever go back later and find it? Can you remember the joy that you had when you had it in your hand again? You can hardly describe the feeling. That’s the same way, only a thousand times greater, that I feel when I have lost one of my children to a life of sin and darkness. I hurt and grieve and am very sad as I watch the darkness cover over you and you do not turn your head upward toward heaven and call my name. But, when you come home to me and fall into my waiting arms, I am so happy that I can hardly stand it. It makes me shout before the saints and angels in heaven! My word tells you that “there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (Luke 15:10) I am so delighted at your return and true heart-felt repentance that I begin a process of recognition and restoration for you. Do you know what that means? It means that your life of darkness and sin is immediately forgiven, and I refuse to hold any of it against you at any time in the future! You may have caused severe damage to the lives of other persons. I will even go to those other persons and redeem them from the destruction caused by your sin if they will let me do it. In other words, I have the power to restore even the broken pieces of your past! Do you appreciate that? I know you do! Also, when you return to your Father, I start the process of “recognition.” What does that mean? It means I John 3:1-3. Please read it thoroughly. I say, “Now are you sons of God.” (I John 3:1) Your present recognition of you by your Father is that you are a child of the King and heir to all the healings, cleansings, blessings and recognition in the family that goes with the relationship. You should leap for joy over this child! Welcome home. You are now forever in the family of love and faith!

Prayer

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Father, I could not do any of this for myself. Your quality is to always show mercy and forgiveness to the lost sheep. I am so glad that I serve the merciful, forgiving and loving God. I am at home in your holy presence! I give you praise in Jesus’ name, amen!