Responding to Discontentment

Running from God will never alleviate our problems, quell our guilt, or quiet our consciences. Running from God will never cure our restlessness or discontentment—it will only make our situations worse. Only running toward God will bring us healing, restoration, joy, and peace. The prodigal son shows us how God can use our discontentment to turn our hearts back to Him.

Read Luke 15:11-32. Restless and dissatisfied, the prodigal son ran away from his father. Yet instead of allowing his misery to drive him farther and farther away, the prodigal son realized that running away was not the answer. The prodigal used his discontent to repent and restore his relationship with his father.

When he came to his senses, he said, “How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.” (Luke 15:17-19)

Because the prodigal son changed course and sought contentment through his father and not his rebellion, he finally found happiness and peace. The father did not punish his son or send him away but instead welcomed him home with love.

How will you respond to your seasons of discontent?

Prayer: God, I confess that I’ve been restless and discontent. Forgive me for being prideful and stubborn. Thank You for Your unfailing mercy and forgiveness. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.