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"And not many days after, the younger son gathered all together, journeyed to a far country, and there wasted his possessions with prodigal living."
(Luke 15:13)
So many times, I have seen people believe that what the devil offers them is better than what God has to give them. The enemy of our souls tempts us to seek more than the life surrendered to Jesus. He tempts Christians to loosen up, have some fun, and just ask for forgiveness when you are finished. But every time someone goes down this path, it never ends well. Sure, there are pleasures in the "far country" outside the will of God; however, the price to pay always exceeds the sin enjoyed.
I know of a man who was one of the most gifted leaders in the Southern Baptist Convention. He was a professor, a prolific author, and in much demand as a speaker. But he literally left his faith and his family and embraced a sordid sexual lifestyle that cost him everything. It is heartbreaking, and yet this story is played out far too frequently.
Pastor Charles Stanley said in his message on the prodigal son that this is the way sin operates: the devil stresses the pleasure of the moment and then convinces you that if you could only have this or that, him or her, etc. then you would really live. Satan narrows our vision down to the one thing we think we want the most. There is no mention of consequences. Once you have tasted and embraced the forbidden fruit, the momentary satisfaction turns to ashes in your mouth. Proverbs 9:17-18 says, "Stolen water is sweet, And bread eaten in secret is pleasant. But he does not know that the dead are there, That her guests are in the depths of hell."
The prodigal son in Jesus' parable departed to a far country. He left home because he wanted something new. He did not like the restraints, so he decided to leave. When he arrived in the far country, there was plenty of money, fame, friends, and self-worth, and he was loving that lifestyle. But soon he squandered his estate, spent it all on loose, immoral living. The prodigal son ended up with nothing: no morals, no friends, in a hog pen. All his friends and money, nice clothing, and self-esteem were all gone. He wasted it all. His motive was to enjoy life and be free; that was going to be his life, he thought. Many people in this world have been hoodwinked by Satan that they can have all they want with no consequences. What is the outcome? No peace.
A far country is any place or destination outside of God's will. People who live across the street can live in a far country. Many come to church and are living outside the will of God. It is dangerous territory. Are you contemplating such a journey? No one wakes up one morning and out of the blue decides to forfeit all the good and righteous things they have and live the life of a prodigal. It is a slow fade, and the enemy of our souls does not mind waiting on us.
But Jesus is stronger and so worth our complete devotion! I encourage you to say no to Satan's tempting lies. Cling to the Word of God and prayer, stay connected to your church, and be in accountability with other believers. Get busy serving Jesus and helping people. The Lord will strengthen you and provide a way of escape. Stay home with Jesus and do not embark on the journey to a far country.
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