Prodigals are always looking for a way out, an escape from what they are experiencing on the inside. Yet, they fail to discern this as a battle of their own, a battle in their heart and soul. Many will continue to seek freedom from their personal responsibilities. This makes them likely to blame others for their poor choices. Until they seek change from within themselves, they will display reckless, impulsive decisions.

A prodigal will not be ready to give up life in the “far country”, nor stop their cycle of insanity, unless they realize that everyone else is not the real problem. They must realize their struggles are not coming from the outside. The root problem always starts on the inside with rebellion rooted deep in their hearts. They are prone to run unless there is a deep inner transformation.

Most of us would be quite astounded to know about their way of life, their way of utter chaos and destruction. The secrets they hide are destroying them inside. Until they hit rock bottom they will lie and try to scheme a way out of their problems. Until they come to their senses about their behaviors, no one will convince them to come back home. Do yourselves a favor and avoid trying to manipulate the situation. The best thing to do is to pray and be patient for their return.

God knows how to reach them at the right moment. He knows exactly how to get in touch with their hearts. Yet, patience is necessary because most of them are learning the hard way. The good news is that they will encounter many troubles and hardships. Yet, this can force them to come to their senses at any time. It is imperative to allow them to hit major struggles. This provides opportunity to surrender their lives to God. They need to know their way is not working … that only God’s way does.

No matter how hopeless things may seem, the Lord is always close to those who call on him (Psalm 145:18). Never stop praying. This is not only for the prodigal, but pray for God to send you a Christian support team. People who have experience with runaways. This can help guide you, give words of encouragement, and pray with you during this challenging time. Also, speak with prodigals who have returned home to help strengthen your faith.

The Bible says, “Where two or three are together in my name, there I am in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:19). Faith can help win the battle for the prodigal’s return. Pray hard and stand firm in faith for the changes you want to see. Faith can make the breakthrough begin.

I can share my thoughts and insights on prodigals with confidence. I am a prodigal come back home. My family experienced great loss and broken hearts that only God could heal. Not only am I a prodigal come back home, but my daughter followed my footsteps as a prodigal come back home too. Both of us had come back home because of those who prayed for us. There was God in the midst of our troubles, pursuing us. He touched each of our hearts because of the faith-filled prayers of our loved ones.

These were distinct moments for both of us when God spoke into our hearts and minds. In His pursuit of us, he revealed our sins. Yet, it was in these pinnacle moments when we realized we were completely loved by Him. These radical moments of change in our hearts led to our coming back home.

Our story exemplifies the power of prayer. When we faithfully turn to God, he always causes us to triumph.

I know how difficult it is to keep interceding for the prodigal when you don’t see the immediate changes you want. I know my husband’s stand for my return was as long and arduous as was our stand for my daughter’s return. Avoid being one tempted to grow weary. Your breakthrough could be around the corner!

Imagine what a wonderful day that will be when they come back home to you. It will be amazing to witness the miraculous change in them. Think of all the lives that can change because you refused to quit loving them.

Even when their return seems impossible, miracles can happen. I encourage you to hold on, and never give up, especially when you think you are at the end of your rope. Be persistent in prayer. By the authority that God has given you, profess scripture over them with its unfailing power. This is the only way to win the race of life.

Please allow me to take a moment to pray for you today. . .

Father God, I pray for all those who are waiting for their loved ones to return home. I pray for their strength to endure the distance between them. I pray for the authority to bind up the dark spirits that are causing the prodigal’s run. Father, I pray you reach the hearts of the lost runaways. I also pray for the faithful ones who are standing, who mourn for their prodigal’s true hearts return. I pray for you to heal their broken hearts and bind up their wounds from such pain and suffering. Finally, I pray that you reunite them for your glory and honor. In Jesus name. Amen.

Remember, no matter how difficult your experience may be, it is not a time to lose hope. Fight the good fight of faith and hold on.

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1

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