Today is the Worldwide Day of Prayer for Prodigals. It is a ministry I certainly didn’t seek, but was a gift from our son.
Josh took us on a 12-year journey into this world of prodigaldom. He was the founder of WWDOPP, though he didn’t know it at the time. This day of prayer began as a day to pray for him. He has come a long way and is making many good choices now. But Satan always lurks, hoping to trip him up, draw him back, recapture him.
Though the spirit is willing, the flesh is weak, so I keep him on the list. I want as many people as possible to pray for him and the future God has for him.
Over the past couple of years I have had several conversations with Josh about his wayward journey. These have helped me understand him, and helped me encourage others who love prodigals.
Here are some of the thoughts Josh has shared:
What kinds of things were you involved in, and why?
Alcohol, drugs, girls, fights, lying, stealing… Why? Because it was fun and because my friends were doing it.
What helped you begin to turn from that lifestyle and seek God?
I was tired of getting in trouble. Fear of going to jail. Seeing how stupid the things I was doing were. Growing up. Good people who loved me and spoke truth to me.
What has been most helpful in encouraging you on the path you are now pursuing?
Time in the Word. Talking to God. The people I surround myself with— and the ones I don’t hang out with. People who have prayed for me and loved me.
What would you say to these people praying for prodigal loved ones?
Remember that God is in control. He works it all in His plan.
Keep affirming your prodigals as well as being firm with them. Look for good things to say, not just pointing out all the things they do wrong. Be encouraging. Try to introduce them to people who will be good influences. Live and love consistently.
What do you still need prayer for?
That I will keep walking straight. There are so many ways to step off the path. For freedom from past choices—there are still consequences. Pray for my family to keep growing together.
Every prodigal is on a journey, as are those who love and pray for them. My part of this journey is touched on in my Kindling post “Is Unconditional Love Possible?”, but there is much more God has done in my life.
This I know: God loves our prodigals more than we do, He will continue to love and pursue them, and He knows the best way to capture their hearts.
What has been your journey with a prodigal?
c2011 Judy Douglass
en español: Conversaciones con mi primer pródigo: Reflexión en el Día de Oración por Pródigos
I’m so proud of Josh! Thank you Judy for your heart and submission to the Holy Spirit. Would you do me a favor and hug Josh’s neck for me? Love you!
Gladly, Rose! Yes, very proud!
Judy, I will never forget your talk at a Student Venture fundraiser up in Estes Park on unconditional love for your prodigal. I distinctly remember crying so hard there in my seat that I had to get up and leave the room. We have come so far Judy and a lot of it is learning to LAVISHLY LOVE our kids. thank you for your constant encouragement! And by the way our kids are doing GREAT! FINALLY …….for you parents out there that are in the throes of it – love them till it hurts you and they KNOW you do and they FEEL it.
Mark, I remember that talk, but not your crying. So glad to hear yours are doing well. Most come around if you can keep them alive and out of jail. Good word to parents.
What a great and hope filled interview with Josh. Sure appreciate his honesty. Very helpful advice to pass on to other friends who struggle with then despair of parenting a prodigal. Thanks for sharing Judy and for everyone’s vulnerability. Will continue to pray for Josh and his family as he asked. What a blessing he has been to many.
Thanks, Nancy. I tell him today is his ministry.
I just love that handsome man! He is truely a picture of what God wants in us, a humble heart.
He is handsome, isn’t he. And he has an increasingly humble heart. God keeps working.
Those words, from Josh’s lips, scream the reality of all that we believe and hope that God is. Powerful.
Yes. My latest conversation with me astounded me at the truth and depth of what he said. Certainly more than I thought he understood.
I just kept saying wow! God is indeed good to us and He is faithful! We just need to trust Him and keep praying for them and loving them! Thanks Judy…. and Josh for sharing!!!
God is good, Zchat! But keep praying.
Thanks Josh and Judy for sharing this. It is so encouraging. What Josh shares in the things he has struggled with sounds so much like my son right now. Thanks for giving me hope for my prodical son! Frances
Frances, I know Josh would be glad to have encouraged you, even as I am. As He said, God is still in control.
Grateful to read and rejoice in this powerful testimony – both yours and Josh’s.
Thanks, Ann. Very grateful.