The Prodigal Son's Brother

.
Today's thoughts are on the brother of the Prodigal Son. (Luke 15:11 - 32) Most people know the story about the prodigal son. He asked for his inheritance from his father and then he took it and wasted it on unholy living. When he was broke and had nowhere to turn, he went home to his father. His father welcomed him with open arms and threw him a party. He was so glad his son returned home.

The older brother, who had always remained faithful to his father, got mad. He was upset that his father rejoiced and threw a party when his brother, who wasted all his money, came home. He wanted to know, "Where's my party. I never got a party." He was feeling superior and self-righteous. He despised his brother and he was annoyed that his father forgave him so easily.

Have you ever felt like that? Like someone else got all the breaks – even when they didn’t deserve them. Like you have been working like crazy for someone and no one recognized your faithfulness or hard work. Outwardly you look good but inside you are bitter. You are filled with anger and resentment. You are expecting to be rewarded for your faithfulness, your efforts, your studies, your volunteer hours, your service, etc. Don’t you deserve a little recognition? The answer is - no. Ouch! The truth is we don’t deserve anything. Just because you are extra good, you don't get extra goodies. God is fair. Everyone who comes to Him gets richly paid - whether they came early or came late into His Kingdom. And I must never resent anyone for that!

Celebrate and be glad for how richly God chooses to bless you. And find delight in living for God's sake rather than your own sake.

.