Prodigal son lesson for youth

       The Parable of the Prodigal Son, found in Luke 15:11-32, is one of the most powerful teachings of Jesus. It tells the story of a young man who makes reckless decisions, faces the consequences of his actions, and ultimately experiences the incredible grace of his father. This parable is highly relevant for youth today, as it teaches valuable lessons about responsibility, repentance, forgiveness, and God’s unconditional love.

      In this teaching, we will explore the key themes of the parable and how young people can apply them in their lives.

1. The Dangers of Reckless Choices

      The story begins with the younger son asking his father for his inheritance while his father is still alive: "Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me." (Luke 15:12)

      In Jewish culture, an inheritance was typically given after a father’s death. By asking for it early, the son was essentially saying that he wanted his father’s wealth but did not value his father’s presence. This request was selfish, dishonoring, and impatient—similar to how many young people today rush into decisions without considering the consequences.

Application for Youth:

● Many young people make impulsive choices regarding money, relationships, or careers without seeking wisdom.

● Peer pressure often leads to reckless decisions, like overspending, substance abuse, or unhealthy relationships.

● The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 14:12: "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end, it leads to death."

      The prodigal son thought he was making a good decision, but his actions led to hardship. This teaches youth the importance of seeking wisdom from parents, mentors, and God before making major life decisions.

2. The Consequences of Sin and Poor Decisions

      After receiving his inheritance, the young man left home and wasted all his money on reckless living: "Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living." (Luke 15:13)

      This represents the consequences of living without discipline. Many young people today experience similar downfalls when they make choices based on pleasure rather than wisdom. After losing everything, the son found himself in a desperate situation: "And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need." (Luke 15:14)

      He ended up working for a farmer, feeding pigs—an extremely degrading job for a Jewish man. He was so hungry that he even longed to eat the pig's food. This illustrates how sin and poor choices can lead to deep regret and suffering.

Application for Youth:

● When we turn away from God’s guidance, we often find ourselves in difficult and painful situations.

● The world offers temporary pleasure, but it cannot provide true fulfillment (1 John 2:16).

● Sin always has consequences, whether it’s emotional pain, broken relationships, or loss of opportunities.

      However, the story doesn’t end here. Even in his lowest moment, the prodigal son had a turning point.

3. The Power of Repentance

     In the midst of his suffering, the young man came to his senses: "But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger!'" (Luke 15:17)

      Realizing his mistakes, he decided to return home and humbly ask for forgiveness: "I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.’" (Luke 15:18-19)

      This moment of repentance is key. The young man acknowledged his sin, recognized his need for change, and took action.

Application for Youth:

● Everyone makes mistakes, but true maturity comes from admitting them and making things right.

● God is always ready to forgive, but we must first turn back to Him.

● 1 John 1:9 promises: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

4. God’s Unconditional Love and Forgiveness

      As the young man approached home, his father saw him from a distance and ran to him: "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him." (Luke 15:20)

      This is a beautiful image of God’s love. The father didn’t wait for his son to apologize—he was already waiting and eager to restore him. Instead of punishing him, he welcomed him with open arms and celebrated his return: "Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet." (Luke 15:22)

      This teaches that God’s love is unconditional. No matter how far we stray, He is always ready to welcome us back when we repent.

Application for Youth:

● Some young people feel unworthy of God’s love because of past mistakes, but God is always ready to forgive.

● Repentance leads to restoration; God doesn’t hold grudges.

● Romans 8:38-39 reminds us that nothing can separate us from God’s love.

5. Avoiding Jealousy and Embracing Grace

      The older brother in the story reacted with resentment: "But he was angry and refused to go in." (Luke 15:28)

      Instead of celebrating his brother’s return, he felt jealous and entitled. He had obeyed his father and didn’t think it was fair that his reckless brother was welcomed back so easily. However, the father reminded him that everything he had was already his: "Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours." (Luke 15:31)

      The older brother represents people who struggle with pride and self-righteousness. Sometimes, youth may feel resentful when others receive grace, but God calls us to have a heart of love and forgiveness.

Application for Youth:

● Avoid jealousy when others experience blessings.

● Rejoice in the grace of God, both for yourself and for others.

● Ephesians 4:32 teaches: "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."

      The Parable of the Prodigal Son teaches powerful lessons for young people:

1. Avoid Reckless Choices – Think before making life-changing decisions.

2. Understand the Consequences of Sin – Poor decisions can lead to pain and suffering.

3. Embrace Repentance – Admitting mistakes and returning to God brings restoration.

4. Receive God’s Unconditional Love – No sin is too great for God’s mercy.

5. Celebrate Grace, Not Jealousy – Be grateful for God’s forgiveness and extend it to others.

      Youth today face many distractions, temptations, and challenges, but this parable reminds us that God’s love is constant, and His arms are always open. No matter how far we wander, we can always come home to Him.