THE FATHERS GIFTS
By Carolyn Dale Newell
“But the father said to his servants, “Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet.
And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry…”
Luke 15:22-23 (NKJV)
Christians are familiar with the parable of the prodigal son. The sinner has repented and comes to God. The gifts that the father gives the prodigal may not appear to be extravagant, but we have to understand the culture of that time.
The best robe was the finest clothes that were only worn on very special occasions. The ring was a signet ring which gave the prodigal authority to make decisions concerning the father’s estate. Sandals were never worn by slaves, so they symbolized sonship. The fatted calf was only killed for a great celebration or festival.
The gifts symbolize the lavish blessings that God bestows on us. He has given us eternal life and clothed us in Christ’s righteousness. We are adopted as sons and daughters, not slaves. Yet, we complain, we want more, because we are pursuing the things that the world offers rather than God’s glory.
God wants us to be holy and humble. He adores our worship and our witness to an unsaved world.
God comforts us when we are sorrowful. He strengthens us when we are weak. He gives us His divine peace and joy in the middle of the raging storm.
God never promised us a trouble-free life. Actually, Jesus told us that in this life there would be tribulation. He said that we must bear our cross. Scripture calls for a sacrificial life.
When you face the struggles and the sad times, look for God in the situation. You will see that He is giving you the very best.
Heavenly Father,
Forgive us when we gripe about the small stuff. You generously bless us and we thank You. Draw us away from the cares of this world. In Jesus’ name, amen.
DIG DEEPER
Read Matt. 16:24, John 16:33, Rom. 12:1-2.
HIKING THE TRAIL
Although it may not seem like it right now, but God is giving you His very best. Our part is to trust Him.
Copyright 2015 Carolyn Dale Newell.
A Mountain of Faith 
A great devotion for Father’s Day and any day! God’s blessings on you Carolyn
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Thank you Linda. You’ll never know how much I appreciate you.
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Carolyn, what a good reminder to look for God’s gifts even when things are hard. Your prayer was timely. “Forgive us when we gripe about the small stuff.” Just yesterday I was complaining about our slow internet connection because it was taking so long to finish up some things I needed to do. Then this thought came to me, “How could I be so upset about such a minor things when others are grieving for the family members who lost their lives in Charleston? May God help us to be content and thankful for what we have and to grieve with those who grieve. Blessings to you!
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Thanks for stopping by. I agree with you. Small things frustrate us and we gripe, but we should be praising God that we are having those little problems and not the tragic ones. Thanks for that simple reminder, Gail. Have a blessed day!
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