Daily Devotional – ‘In His Footstep’
By Kingdom Support Initiatives (KSi)
August 31st 2023

When Obedience Turned into Slavery

So he answered and said to his father, “Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends. But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him” Luke 15:29-30

Bible Reading: Luke 15:29-32

We have been examining Jesus’ parable of the lost son for the past few days. Summarily, the prodigal son requested, and collected his own portion from his father’s inheritance, took off to a different country and squandered his allotted inheritance. Happily, he came to his senses after hardship and unpleasant experience, and he returned home. His father happily received him and threw a party for him. Today’s exhortation is centered on the older brother who stayed at home to serve the father obediently and dutifully. When he returned home perhaps from one of the errands his father sent him, he heard music and the sound of celebration from the house. Perplexed and confused, he inquired to know the reason for the celebration and he was told that his younger brother had returned. The older brother became furious because his father never threw any party for him despite his obedience, loyalty and faithfulness. He defended himself and presented his self-righteousness to his father especially because what he has done is highly commendable.

Like this older brother, many Christians have this attitude. They complain when things aren’t going on well with them, and compare themselves to that unbeliever who is not living according to God’s word. They also defend themselves; present their good works and righteous living as a condition for God. In fact, they forget that man’s righteousness is like a filthy rag before God. At this point, obedience turns slavery because they feel they are missing on life. However, in times like this, it is important to always remember the father’s response: “Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours” (Luke 15:31). The father’s response is not only soothing, assuring and powerful, it reveals the provision we have as faithful children of God. So next time when you are about showing up this attitude of self-righteousness, remember this truth and repent of such attitude immediately.

Self-Reflection: What’s the implication of the father’s response to his son as Christians

Daily Confession: Lord I stand in Your righteousness and faithfulness. Help me not to take glory in self-righteousness.

Intercessory prayer: Pray for your country and its leaders.

Hymn: Look and live, my brother, live

Look to Jesus now, and live;

‘Tis recorded in His word, halleluyah!

It is only that you, look and live.