THERE IS A REWARD FOR STAYING

Several weeks ago, I was praying about a situation, and the Holy Spirit ministered these words to me, “There is a reward for staying, you inherit all.” Also, I was directed to the parable found in Luke 15 of the prodigal son and his brother.

In Luke 15, Jesus shared the parable of two brothers with the focus placed on the younger brother, who is named the prodigal son because of his careless and foolish actions. Customarily, a child would receive their inheritance at the death of their father with a double portion going to the eldest; however, the prodigal son requested his father to give him his inheritance ahead of time. As recorded in the Bible, the father complied to his request and gave both of his sons their legacy.

After receiving his inheritance, the younger son leaves his father’s home while his older brother remains at home working with his father. No doubt this young man wanted freedom and adventure, and he felt that he was capable of managing his affairs. However, while at home there were some wisdom he did not gain and skills that he did not learn for he squandered his inheritance and did not have a profession that he could resort to in the time of need.

When famine came to the land, his money gone and new freeloading friends disappeared the prodigal son ended up working on a pig farm, and it was there that he had an epiphany. The young man realized how retched he was, his father’s servants were in a better state than he, he needed to go home and admit his error, and willingly accept the consequence of his actions.

Two commentaries on Luke 15 that I read described the prodigal son appropriately. William MacDonald in the Believer’s Bible Commentary states, “The young man was looking for a good time, but he did not find it in the far country, He found it only when he had the good sense to come back to his father’s house,” and Liberty Bible Commentary states, “The younger son’s conduct can be summarized with nine key words. His rebellion resulted in riotous living as he hit rock bottom before his realization to repent and return, where he experienced reception, reconciliation, and rejoicing.

According to the parable, the eldest son became bitter when his brother returned home, and his father held a celebratory party for him. The eldest son felt devalued, unrecognized, and unappreciated by his father.

When their father noted that his oldest son was not participating in the celebration he found his son and entreated him to come in but he said, “Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf,” to which the father replied, “ Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.”

I understand that this parable revealed the love, concern, and happiness of a father for a child that was restored, and it also showed how someone could be overtaken with jealousy because they did not receive accolades for their obedience, servanthood, commitment, dedication, and faithfulness. This was the case of the elder brother.
Hence, I believe the father’s words to the eldest son concerning his status is paramount for believers who work in ministry without applause or public recognition. You stayed when others left, and you filled in the gap that had become void. You continued to work hard, long, and willingly. Your father knew you were responsible, and he could count on you.

Now, don’t be fooled and exhibit unforgivingness, hatred, and a negative attitude to the prodigal when he returns home. Your reward is not altered; your reward for staying is, you inherit it all.