3.3 Pleasing God?
Our Significance in His Eyes

Read Isaiah 43:4; Psalm 149:4 and Proverbs 15:8–9. What do these verses tell us about God’s joy in His people?

The verses from Isaiah 43:4, Psalm 149:4, and Proverbs 15:8–9 convey a profound truth about God’s joy in His people: His love is not distant or neutral but active, vibrant, and filled with joy. God takes pleasure in those who live in love, righteousness, and sincerity because they align with His nature and His will.

1. God’s Joy in His Children

   In Isaiah 43:4, God’s love is depicted as appreciative and personal: “Because you are precious in my eyes and honored, and I love you.” This statement shows that God not only loves us but also views us as valuable and precious. His joy in us is not based on our perfection but on His deep, steadfast love.

2. Joy in Sincere Devotion

   Psalm 149:4 affirms that God takes pleasure in His people: “For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation.” God’s joy is especially directed toward those who are humble and open to His guidance. His favor is evident in the way He blesses His people with salvation and blessings.

3. God’s Love for Righteousness

   Proverbs 15:8–9 illustrates that God is not interested in outward religious actions if they do not come from a sincere heart. Offerings from the wicked are detestable to Him, but sincere prayer and the pursuit of righteousness please Him. This makes clear that God’s joy is inseparable from a lifestyle marked by love, righteousness, and sincerity.

Connection to Our Daily Lives:
These verses challenge us to reflect on how we live. God does not delight in outward obedience or empty rituals but in a heart that earnestly seeks Him. In our daily lives, this means that through our attitude, decisions, and actions, we can reflect God’s joy. It’s about living with a humble heart, doing good, and walking our path in love and sincerity.

Conclusion:
God’s joy in us is an expression of His deep love. This love is unconditional but particularly delights in a life marked by love, righteousness, and devotion. We are invited not only to receive His love but also to contribute to His joy through our lives.

Consider how closely heaven and earth must be connected for God, the Creator of the universe, to be so intimately, even emotionally, connected with us. What hope should this amazing thought give you, especially if you are going through a difficult time?

The thought that the Almighty God, who created the entire universe, is so intimately and emotionally connected with us humans reveals an immeasurable closeness between heaven and earth. The Creator of all things is not distant or uninvolved but deeply engaged in our lives. This close connection shows that we are not insignificant but that every person is loved, seen, and valued by God.

Especially in difficult times, this thought provides great hope. It means that we do not have to bear our struggles and worries alone. God understands our suffering, empathizes with us, and accompanies us through every darkness. His presence promises comfort, strength, and the assurance that suffering does not have the final word.

If the God of heaven is so concerned about us that He rejoices over us, suffers with us, and lovingly guides us, then we can trust that He will also provide a way in difficult moments. This realization gives hope that there is a deeper meaning in everything and that God’s love and care are constant—regardless of the circumstances.

This connection encourages us to rely on God’s presence in tough times, seek refuge in prayer, and trust that He will not abandon us. It reminds us that we are loved and that even in pain and uncertainty, God’s plan for our lives is full of hope, healing, and restoration.

The connection of these biblical truths with our everyday lives and faith lies in the profound understanding that our lives are of immeasurable value to God. This insight not only changes our view of ourselves but also influences our daily actions and our relationships with others.

1. Understanding Our Identity in God’s Eyes

   Realizing that we are “precious and valuable” in God’s eyes (Isaiah 43:4) gives us a stable identity. In a world that often values performance and external success, we can know that our worth does not depend on what we do but on the fact that we are loved by God. This assurance gives us inner strength, especially in times of self-doubt or failure.

2. Living with a Sincere Heart

   Psalm 149:4 shows that God takes particular delight in those who are humble and open to His guidance. In everyday life, this means making our decisions and actions honest and authentic. God does not seek outward, hypocritical behavior but genuine devotion. This motivates us to act truthfully and justly in our relationships, at work, or in daily activities.

3. Reflecting God’s Joy in Our Actions

   Proverbs 15:8–9 reminds us that it is not outward actions but the attitude of our hearts that pleases God. Our faith should not only be shown in rituals but in a life marked by love, mercy, and justice. This challenges us to consciously do good—through compassion, helpfulness, and forgiveness.

4. Drawing Hope in Difficult Times

   Especially in crises, we can trust that the Creator of the universe is close to us. This closeness of God gives us hope and comfort. Knowing that God sees our suffering and empathizes with us strengthens us to face challenges with confidence. In prayer, we find refuge and can trust that God has a plan even in pain.

5. Living a Life Pleasing to God

   God’s joy in His people motivates us to live more consciously—not out of fear of punishment but out of a desire to please Him. This affects how we treat others, our decisions, and our inner attitude. Living according to God’s will means seeking justice, practicing mercy, and walking humbly with God.

Conclusion:
God’s joy in us is not an abstract concept but a living reality that should permeate our daily lives. This understanding changes our self-image, gives us hope in difficult times, and challenges us to live in love, sincerity, and justice. We are invited not only to receive God’s love but also to make this love visible in our daily actions and to bring joy to God through our lives.

You are infinitely valuable in God’s eyes, and He delights in every step you take in love and sincerity.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-to-be-pleasing-to-god-3-3-pleasing-god-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

January 14, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Galatians Chapter 6

¹ Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

² Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

³ For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.

⁴ But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

⁵ For every man shall bear his own burden.

⁶ Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

⁷ Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

⁸ For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

⁹ And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

¹⁰ As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

¹¹ Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand.

¹² As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ.

¹³ For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.

¹⁴ But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

¹⁵ For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.

¹⁶ And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.

¹⁷ From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.

¹⁸ Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Galatians chapter 6, Paul concludes his letter with practical instructions for life in the Christian community. He emphasizes the responsibility of believers to correct and support one another with love and gentleness. At the same time, he warns against self-deception and calls for self-examination. Paul encourages the believers to remain steadfast in faith, do good, and follow the Spirit’s path. In the concluding part of the chapter, Paul once again focuses on the cross of Christ as the center of faith and rejects any glory that is not founded on Jesus Christ.

Commentary:

Encouragement to Brotherhood and Responsibility (Verses 1–10):
Paul urges the believers to act with gentleness when someone has fallen into sin. Those who are spiritually mature should help restore the erring person, while also watching themselves to avoid temptation. He places particular importance on each person bearing the burdens of others, as this fulfills the law of Christ, which is founded in love. Paul warns against pride and encourages self-examination, as each person is responsible for their own actions. He emphasizes divine justice: what a person sows, that they will also reap. Those who sow to the flesh will reap destruction, but those who sow to the Spirit will reap eternal life. Therefore, believers should not grow weary in doing good, especially toward other believers.

The Cross of Christ as the Center of Faith (Verses 11–18):
In the personal concluding section, Paul highlights that he has written this letter with his own hand. He sharply criticizes those who demand circumcision to protect themselves from persecution and to boast in the outward signs of the law. In contrast, Paul rejects all glory except the cross of Jesus Christ. For him, membership in external religious regulations no longer matters, but only the new life as a “new creation” in Christ. To those who follow this path, Paul promises peace and mercy. He refers to the visible marks he bears for Christ on his body as a sign of his faithfulness and suffering for the faith.

Summary:

In Galatians chapter 6, Paul calls believers to a life of love, responsibility, and spiritual maturity. They are to help one another with gentleness, bear each other’s burdens together, and not be distracted by outward rituals. Everyone is encouraged to do good and sow to the Spirit to reap eternal life. Paul emphasizes that external features such as circumcision do not matter, but the new life in Christ does. He concludes his letter with a wish for peace and mercy for all who follow this faith and underscores the central importance of the cross of Christ as the foundation of Christian life.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 87—“To My Father, and Your Father”
This chapter is based on Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-12.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Chapter 87 we learn about the final act of Jesus’ earthly life and His ascension into heaven. Jesus, having triumphed over death and sin, prepares to ascend to His Father in heaven. This moment marks the completion of His mission on Earth and the lasting promise of His presence in the hearts of believers. The place of His ascension—the Mount of Olives—is not merely a geographical location but a place rich with memories of Jesus’ life, prayers, and His struggle for humanity’s salvation. The ascension signifies the transition from Jesus as the suffering Redeemer to the triumphant King ascending to heaven.

Commentary:

Chapter 87 presents Jesus’ ascension as an act of victory and fulfillment. After completing His earthly mission and revealing Himself as the living Savior, He enters the heavenly realms. This moment is bittersweet for the disciples—filled with sorrow at parting from their Master but also with hope, as they now have confirmation of His victory over death. The Mount of Olives, once a place of Jesus’ prayers and struggles, now becomes the stage for His farewell. Yet, this farewell is not final; rather, it marks the beginning of a new era of hope. Jesus promises to remain with His followers and assures them that He will return one day in glory.

The angels affirm to the disciples that Jesus has not departed forever but will return in the same way they saw Him ascend. The image of heavenly hosts welcoming their King symbolizes Jesus’ future triumph at His second coming. Before this moment, Jesus raises His hands in blessing—a powerful affirmation of His presence and ongoing connection with the disciples. This blessing uplifts the disciples spiritually, filling them with joy and confidence in Christ’s continued presence and His role as their intercessor.

Summary:

Chapter 87 portrays Jesus’ ascension as a profound moment of exaltation and victory. The Mount of Olives, once a place of prayer and struggle, becomes the setting for His glorious ascent into heaven. After offering His disciples comfort and the promise of His return, Jesus is taken up by a cloud, disappearing from their sight. The angels proclaim that Jesus will return in the same way. This event conveys a dual message to believers: the comfort and assurance of Christ’s ongoing presence and the hope of His glorious return. The disciples return to Jerusalem with newfound joy and confidence, their hearts filled with praise and gratitude for the living Christ, who continues to live and intercede for them.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/14-01-2025-galatians-chapter-6-believe-his-prophets/

3.2 Rejoicing With Gladness
God’s Joy Over Each Individual

Read Zephaniah 3:17. In what way does this verse illuminate the Parable of the Prodigal Son?

Zephaniah 3:17 and the Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11–32 wonderfully complement each other in their portrayal of God’s exuberant joy over the return of the lost. In Zephaniah, God is described as a mighty Savior who is among His people, rejoicing over them with gladness and quieting them with His love—a picture of immeasurable affection and care. This deep joy of God over restoration and reconciliation is clearly reflected in the behavior of the father in the parable.

The father runs to meet his lost son, embraces him, and celebrates his return with a grand feast. This reaction demonstrates the same passionate joy described in Zephaniah. Both texts emphasize that God’s joy is active and overwhelming—it does not remain silent but is expressed through visible gestures of love and celebration.

God’s joy is not restrained or conditional but is full of enthusiasm. This teaches us that God is not only willing to forgive but that He delights deeply when we return to Him. Just as the father in the parable does not hesitate but acts with compassion and joy, God rejoices over every person who finds their way back to Him.

This connection encourages us to see God’s love not as distant or indifferent but as alive, passionate, and full of joy. It invites us to experience this divine joy in our own faith life and to share it with enthusiasm.

Read Ephesians 5:25–28. What does this say about the kind of love we are also called to?

Ephesians 5:25–28 describes a profound and selfless form of love to which we as Christians are called. The Apostle Paul particularly urges husbands to love their wives just as Christ loved the church. This love is:

1. Self-Sacrificing

   Christ gave His life for the church to save and sanctify it. This selfless dedication is the highest model for interpersonal love. Likewise, we should be willing to set ourselves aside and act for the well-being of others, whether in marriage, family, or community.

2. Pure and Sanctifying

   Christ cleansed the church to make it holy and blameless. Similarly, we are called to strengthen others through our love, build them up, and help them realize their full potential—free from selfishness or calculation.

3. Nurturing and Caring

   Paul compares love for one’s wife to love for oneself. Just as we care for our own well-being, we should also care for others. This love is nurturing, attentive to the needs of others, and acts responsibly.

4. Unbreakable and Committed

   Christ’s love for the church is unbreakable. This steadfastness should also characterize our actions: faithful, reliable, and enduring—regardless of external circumstances.

Application to Our Lives:

This type of love goes far beyond romantic feelings. It calls us to be selfless, patient, supportive, and forgiving in every relationship. It is an invitation to love others not based on performance or merit but with a love that is giving and serving.

Just as Christ loves His church with a deep, sacrificial love, we are also called to encounter others with this comprehensive, active, and selfless love.

This section admonishes husbands to love their wives “just as Christ loved the church” and to love their wives “as their own bodies” (Eph 5:25,28). These texts not only highlight the kind of selfless and sacrificial love a husband should have for his wife but also show that Christ loves His people (the church) as part of Himself.

This passage from Ephesians 5:25–28 illustrates a profound and challenging dimension of love: husbands are to love their wives not only with care and respect but with the same selfless, sacrificial love that Christ has for the church. Christ gave His life for the church to save and sanctify it. This love was unconditional, patient, and entirely focused on the well-being of the church.

By emphasizing that husbands should love their wives “as their own bodies,” Paul underscores the close bond between husband and wife. Just as Christ views the church as part of Himself, husbands should see their wives as an inseparable part of themselves. This means that care, protection, respect, and dedication are not optional but fundamental.

However, this call goes beyond marriage: it reveals a universal principle of love in Christian relationships. Christ loves His church—every believer—not distantly but as part of Himself. This intimate, inseparable connection shows how deep and personal God’s love is.

For our daily lives, this means that we should live a love in all our relationships that is not self-serving but oriented toward the well-being of others. A love that is ready to serve, forgive, and support because we are all connected in Christ.

The connection of these biblical texts with our everyday life and faith shows how deeply God’s joy and love should shape our own actions.

1. God’s Joy as a Model for Our Attitude

   Zephaniah 3:17 and the Parable of the Prodigal Son reveal God’s overwhelming joy over repentance and reconciliation. This divine joy should also influence our behavior. In daily life, this means not only forgiving but actively rejoicing over positive changes in others—without prejudice, envy, or reservation. In family, friendships, or community, we can learn to forgive mistakes and celebrate reconciliation with genuine joy.

2. Living Selfless Love in Relationships

   Ephesians 5:25–28 calls us to live a selfless, sacrificial love. This love is not limited to romantic relationships but concerns all interpersonal connections. In our daily lives, this means being willing to take responsibility for others, support them, and prioritize their needs over our own—whether in marriage, friendships, or toward those in need.

3. Promoting Unity and Belonging

   Just as Christ loves the church as part of Himself, we should live a deep sense of connectedness in our relationships. This means fostering unity in communities, actively resolving conflicts, and not excluding anyone. Especially in times of tension or misunderstanding, we are called to build bridges rather than walls.

4. Showing Enthusiasm in Faith Life

   God’s enthusiasm over each returning person challenges us to live our faith with joy and enthusiasm. This can mean actively participating in church life, sharing God’s love with others, or joyfully engaging in social projects. A vibrant, enthusiastic faith is contagious and brings hope to an often resigned world.

5. Understanding Love as Active Action

   In the biblical understanding, love is not just a feeling but always an action. God’s love is shown in deeds—through forgiveness, acceptance, and care. Likewise, we are called to demonstrate our love through concrete actions: by helping, encouraging, and showing compassion to those on the margins.

Conclusion:

God’s joy and love are not abstract concepts but practical models for our daily lives. They challenge us to forgive with enthusiasm, love with dedication, and act authentically, mercifully, and supportively in our relationships. When we integrate this attitude into our daily lives, we reflect God’s love and become a living testimony of His Gospel.

Live today in the assurance that God’s joy over you is greater than you can ever imagine.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-to-be-pleasing-to-god-3-2-rejoicing-with-gladness-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

January 13, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Galatians Chapter 5

1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

2 Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.

3 For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law.

4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.

5 For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.

6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.

7 Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

8 This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you.

9 A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.

10 I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.

11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased.

12 I would they were even cut off which trouble you.

13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.

16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.

19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Galatians Chapter 5, Paul calls believers to stand firm in the freedom they have received through Christ. He warns them not to submit again to the yoke of the law, particularly through external religious practices like circumcision. Paul emphasizes that true faith works through love and that neither observing the law nor external rituals can lead to righteousness. Instead, believers are to walk in the Spirit and bear the fruits of the Spirit, which characterize life in Christ.

Commentary:

Call to Freedom (Verses 1–15):
Paul urgently urges the Galatians to live in the freedom granted by Christ. However, freedom in Christ does not mean indulging in sinful desires but serving one another in love. He strongly criticizes circumcision as a means of justification before God. Those who rely on the law must keep all of it and separate themselves from Christ’s grace. Paul reminds them that only faith working through love matters. He also warns against divisions and conflicts within the community, which arise from selfishness and pride.

Life in the Spirit (Verses 16–26):
Paul explains that living in the Spirit overcomes the sinful desires of the flesh. He highlights the opposition between flesh and Spirit—the flesh produces sinful actions like envy, anger, impurity, and division, while the Spirit produces divine qualities such as love, joy, peace, and patience. Those who belong to Christ crucify their sinful nature and live by the Holy Spirit. Paul encourages believers not to seek empty glory but to act in humility and love.

Summary:

In Galatians 5, Paul emphasizes the importance of freedom in Christ and warns against returning to legalism. He underlines that true righteousness is not achieved by observing laws or rituals but through faith that works through love. Paul calls believers to live by the Spirit to overcome sinful desires. The fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, and other virtues—should define the Christian life. The chapter ends with a warning not to be conceited or quarrelsome but to live in love and humility with one another.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 87—“To My Father, and Your Father”
This chapter is based on Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-12.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Chapter 87 we learn about the final act of Jesus’ earthly life and His ascension into heaven. Jesus, having triumphed over death and sin, prepares to ascend to His Father in heaven. This moment marks the completion of His mission on Earth and the lasting promise of His presence in the hearts of believers. The place of His ascension—the Mount of Olives—is not merely a geographical location but a place rich with memories of Jesus’ life, prayers, and His struggle for humanity’s salvation. The ascension signifies the transition from Jesus as the suffering Redeemer to the triumphant King ascending to heaven.

Commentary:

Chapter 87 presents Jesus’ ascension as an act of victory and fulfillment. After completing His earthly mission and revealing Himself as the living Savior, He enters the heavenly realms. This moment is bittersweet for the disciples—filled with sorrow at parting from their Master but also with hope, as they now have confirmation of His victory over death. The Mount of Olives, once a place of Jesus’ prayers and struggles, now becomes the stage for His farewell. Yet, this farewell is not final; rather, it marks the beginning of a new era of hope. Jesus promises to remain with His followers and assures them that He will return one day in glory.

The angels affirm to the disciples that Jesus has not departed forever but will return in the same way they saw Him ascend. The image of heavenly hosts welcoming their King symbolizes Jesus’ future triumph at His second coming. Before this moment, Jesus raises His hands in blessing—a powerful affirmation of His presence and ongoing connection with the disciples. This blessing uplifts the disciples spiritually, filling them with joy and confidence in Christ’s continued presence and His role as their intercessor.

Summary:

Chapter 87 portrays Jesus’ ascension as a profound moment of exaltation and victory. The Mount of Olives, once a place of prayer and struggle, becomes the setting for His glorious ascent into heaven. After offering His disciples comfort and the promise of His return, Jesus is taken up by a cloud, disappearing from their sight. The angels proclaim that Jesus will return in the same way. This event conveys a dual message to believers: the comfort and assurance of Christ’s ongoing presence and the hope of His glorious return. The disciples return to Jerusalem with newfound joy and confidence, their hearts filled with praise and gratitude for the living Christ, who continues to live and intercede for them.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/13-01-2025-galatians-chapter-5-believe-his-prophets/

Lesson 3.To Be Pleasing to God
Living for the Honor of God

What does it mean to lead a life that pleases God? This question concerns many believers, as we often tend to associate God’s pleasure with performance, perfection, or outward actions. However, the Bible shows us a different path: God does not seek perfect behavior but a sincere heart that trusts Him and acts in love.

In this lesson, we discover that God’s joy in us does not depend on our actions but on His infinite love and grace. He delights in our return, accepts us despite our weaknesses, and invites us to actively build His kingdom as living stones.

We will learn that even the smallest faith can achieve great things and that our most valuable goal should be to live pleasingly to God in all things—through trust, love, and devotion. This lesson encourages us to consciously place our lives in God’s hands and to make His love visible through our actions.

Living pleasingly to God does not mean perfection but a life marked by trust, mercy, and genuine love. Let us engage to understand more deeply what it means to live in God’s joy and grace.

3.1 More Valuable Than You Can Imagine
More Valuable Than You Can Imagine – The Infinite Love of God

Read Luke 15:11–32. What does the Parable of the Prodigal Son reveal about God’s mercy and love? What warning does it contain for those who, like the other son, stayed at home?

The Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11–32 impressively reveals God’s boundless mercy and love. The father in the story symbolically represents God, who runs to his lost son with compassion, embraces him, and fully welcomes him back into the family. This shows that God’s love is not conditional and that forgiveness is always possible, no matter how far someone has strayed from God. The father’s reaction defies human logic by responding not with punishment or rejection but with joy and acceptance—a powerful image of God’s grace.

At the same time, the parable contains a warning for those who stayed at home like the older son. The older son harbors resentment and misunderstanding toward the father’s grace because he feels disadvantaged by his loyalty and obedience. This reflects the attitude people can adopt when they believe that through their own works or “righteousness,” they deserve more of God’s favor. The older son’s reaction warns against remaining in self-righteousness and refusing to rejoice over another’s repentance. It is a reminder not to be hard-hearted or envious but to also grant God’s mercy to others.

The parable encourages recognizing God’s love as immeasurable and undeserved and to practice mercy and compassion toward others. It reminds us that no one has gone too far to be taken back by God and that even those who consider themselves “faithful” should open their hearts to God’s joy over the return of the lost.

Interesting is the reaction of the other son. Why is this reaction very human, at least partially based on fairness, and also very understandable? What, however, does his role in the story teach us about the fact that human notions of fairness do not capture the depth of the Gospel and God’s love for us?

The reaction of the older son in the parable is very human and understandable because it is strongly influenced by the natural desire for fairness. He feels unjustly treated because he has always been faithful and obedient, while his brother squandered the inheritance and is still received with open arms. From a human perspective, it seems only logical that loyalty and hard work should be rewarded, while misconduct should have consequences. This thinking aligns with a performance-oriented understanding of justice: those who give more should receive more.

Therefore, the older son feels anger and disappointment. His complaint reflects the feeling that his efforts are not being recognized while his brother is rewarded despite serious transgressions. Many people can identify with this feeling, especially when they experience others seemingly receiving undeserved favoritism.

But here the parable teaches us a deeper truth about God’s love and grace: God’s mercy surpasses human notions of fairness. While the older son thinks in terms of merit, the father acts out of love and grace. The Gospel is not based on performance or merits but on undeserved grace. God’s love is generous and all-encompassing; it does not adhere to human standards of justice but is based on compassion and forgiveness.

The role of the older son shows that self-righteousness and a performance-oriented mindset can prevent us from recognizing God’s true nature. It reveals that even those who have “always stayed with the father” risk misunderstanding God’s love if they place themselves above others. God’s grace is not just or fair in the human sense—it is overflowing, unconditional, and accessible to everyone, regardless of past behavior.

The parable invites us to question our own notions of justice and to be shaped by God’s boundless love. It challenges us not to remain in envy or self-righteousness but to rejoice in the grace that others receive just as we do.

The message of the Parable of the Prodigal Son has a direct and profound connection to our everyday lives and our faith. It challenges us to rethink our attitude toward others and toward God and to apply it practically in our daily lives.

1. Dealing with Mistakes and Forgiveness

   In everyday life, we often encounter situations where people make mistakes—whether in personal relationships, family, at work, or in the community. The parable encourages us to greet people who have made mistakes with open arms instead of permanently condemning them for their transgressions. Just as the father meets his lost son with love, we should be ready to forgive and give people a second chance.

2. Questioning Self-Righteousness

   Many people tend to compare themselves with others. Those who work hard or are active in the church might wonder why others who contribute less receive the same recognition or love. The older son’s reaction mirrors this attitude. In everyday life, the parable invites us to question our own self-righteousness: Do we serve out of love or out of a desire for recognition? Do we understand that God’s love is for everyone, regardless of their achievements?

3. Compassion Instead of Envy

   The father’s joy over the return of the lost son calls us to also rejoice in the happiness and successes of others, even if we feel that they do not “deserve” them. In everyday life, this can mean not looking at others with envy but being grateful for our own lives and showing compassion for others.

4. Accepting God’s Grace

   The parable also shows that we do not need to be perfect to be accepted by God. Many people struggle with feelings of guilt and believe that they are “not good enough” for God. The lost son demonstrates that repentance and the desire for reconciliation are sufficient. In everyday life, this means accepting God’s grace and forgiveness for ourselves instead of being paralyzed by guilt.

5. Living an Open Community

   In churches or communities, we often experience conflicts between long-standing members and new or returning people. The parable calls us to be an open and welcoming community that accepts everyone, regardless of their past. It reminds us not to think in groups but to remain connected in God’s love.

6. Active Charity

   Finally, the parable calls us to actively practice mercy. This can happen in everyday life through small gestures of help, comfort, or support. God’s love is not passive but full of compassion and action—and so should we act in the world.

In Summary:
The parable shows us that in our daily lives, we are called to reflect God’s infinite love—through forgiveness, compassion, and unconditional acceptance. It encourages us to act fairly but not self-righteously and reminds us that we are all more valuable than we can imagine through God’s grace.

God’s love is boundless—it welcomes us with open arms, no matter how far we have strayed.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-to-be-pleasing-to-god-3-1-more-valuable-than-you-can-imagine-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/