Waiting on the PorchWhen your child walks away from faith

“While he was still a long way off, his father saw him…” The father in Luke 15 was watching the road. So are you. This is for the waiting.

First, hear this

It’s not all your fault

Many parents quietly carry a verdict: I must have failed. But Proverbs 22:6 is wisdom about how life usually goes, not a guarantee. Adam and Eve had a perfect Father, a perfect home, and walked away anyway. Your child’s choices are theirs. Your faithfulness still matters, and so does your grace toward yourself.

“The child will not share the guilt of the parent, nor will the parent share the guilt of the child.”Ezekiel 18:20 (NIV)
Pray for them by name

A prayer for your prodigal

Type their name. It stays on your screen; nothing is saved.

Take care of you

While you wait

  • Your grief is real. You can mourn the relationship you hoped for and still hope.
  • Find other parents who understand. You are far from the only one.
  • A Christian counselor can help you carry this without it carrying you.
  • Your faith isn’t measured by your child’s choices.
  • Keep the porch light on: birthdays, texts, invitations with no strings attached.
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)
Forgiveness Is for You TooFor the hurt on both sidesDon’t Be Job’s FriendsSend this to their church friendsTeach Me to PrayWhen you run out of wordsPray With MeLet us pray with you
If your child is in danger: for addiction, SAMHSA’s free, confidential helpline is 1-800-662-4357. If they’re in a mental health crisis or talking about ending their life, call or text 988. For immediate danger, call 911.

Built on Luke 15:11–32.
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Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Some quotations are shortened; read the full passage.