When You Love a Prodigal

On June 2, about 25 years ago, our prodigal, Josh, met Jesus. He was living at House of Hope, a nearby residential home for troubled teens. His house dad, Mike, loved him, prayed for him, sought to guide him into better life choices, and on June 2, 1997, he introduced our son to Jesus. That evening Mike baptized him in the nearby lake. Josh's life changed then, and when he came home months later. He wanted to walk with God. But wrong friends and the trauma of his early life put him on a roller coaster. He would do well and make good choices for days, weeks, even months. Then down he would go for many months. The unpredictable cycle went on for 15 years.Judy's Resources:Read The Grace-full Father: https://bit.ly/3SiGkImRead A Word from Josh: https://bit.ly/3ZDiH10Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417X: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Pamela Henkelman is a certified Empty Nest Coach, speaker, writer, and host of the Midlife Momma Podcast. With her bright smile and enthusiastic personality, she is passionate about encouraging women, particularly the often-forgotten group of moms with adult children. She has much wisdom for those whose adult children have cut off connection with them.I loved this quote on Pamela's Instagram: “Talk less and pray more! Lead with love!”Pam's Resources:Learn more about Pamela: https://www.pamelahenkelman.com/Listen to Pam's Podcast: https://www.pamelahenkelman.com/podcast10 Things Not to Say to Your Adult Children(and 5 Ways to Stop Yourself from Saying Them). Free resource: https://wandering-union-986.myflodesk.com/atrt8t373zJudy's Resources:Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417X: x.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

This might be the most helpful episode we've done on this podcast.Loving a prodigal can be like a roller coaster—the ups and downs, the unexpected turns. The dashed hopes. In our last episode we looked at our persistent enemy—a roaring lion we know as Satan. This week we will look at what an opportunist he is, and ways we can resist him.Judy's Resources:Read The Ways of the Enemy: Opportunist: https://bit.ly/4jT5UiIRead The Ways of the Enemy: Counterfeit-The Way: https://bit.ly/44MzGBnJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417X: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

When you love a prodigal, you get used to the lion stalking.Sometimes it seems that, no matter what you do to rescue your prodigal, to win her heart, to capture his mind, nothing works. Even when your prodigal is seeking to change patterns, to make better choices, to turn things around, they can't catch a break.Someone is opposing them.His name is Satan.Judy's Resources:Read Can You See the Lion Stalking?: https://bit.ly/42fNe73Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417X: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

One of the hardest parts of living with and loving a prodigal is the waiting, isn't it. I have said many times: I thought it was time! Isn't it time, Lord? Are we doing this again? How long, Lord?We hate the uncertainty, fear the possibilities. And grow wearing in the waiting….Judy's Resources:Read Fragile Hope: https://bit.ly/41RMwwtRead Waiting with Hope: https://bit.ly/3VlMolgJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417X: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Jill Baughan radiates joy! In my several conversations with her, joy flows from her. I can't help but smile when I'm with her. But more than that, she is able to share, even slosh, that joy with you and me. Joy even for hard days with a prodigal.Jill's Resources:BIG NEWS! Hey friends, my book is available for PRE-ORDER on Amazon!The release date is April 1, 2025. (Yes! April Fools' Day, which I find TOTALLY delightful!) I'll be telling you more about it in the coming days, but just know I am so excited to offer you this devotional that I hope will bring you joy while you read it, and hope for joy after you put it down.You can pre-order here: https://a.co/d/9i864E5Podcast (Find Joy...No Matter What): https://jillbaughan.com/podcast/Make a Joy Box for Someone You Care About: https://jillbaughan.com/joy-boxWebsite: https://jillbaughan.comEnter for a chance to win Jill's new book: https://judydouglass.com/bookgiveawayJudy's Resources:Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417X: x.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

In my conversations with those who love a prodigal, or with someone going through hard times, with anyone in an uncertain time, I usually end up at the same place, with four words that can make a real difference, even bring transformation in a prodigal, and in our own lives.These words are filled with encouragement and hope. When I remember them and choose to believe what God says to me about them, I am changed. Sometimes my circumstances change. And often I see new ways that God is answering my prayerJudy's Resources:Read Living Out Love: https://bit.ly/3F3c9l4Read Immersed in His Love: https://bit.ly/3R3NvnfRead Scandalous Grace: https://bit.ly/4i2wxkXRead Turning Scripture into Blessing: https://bit.ly/4hZdRTdJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Casey has much to offer as she shares her journey to become a counselor and her passion to encourage healthy families. She talks about the pain experienced by parents and by the children. And the conversations that can lead to healing.Casey Lewis is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist living in Chattanooga, TN. She worked with Cru for three years out of college before spending five years at the University of Alabama. From there, she attended Richmont Graduate University. She has worked for 11 years in private practice and has over 20 years of experience working with teenagers. Casey's Resources:Casey's Blog: https://www.forwhatitsworthblog.comhttps://www.attachmentproject.com/Judy's Resources:Read Home: The Most Significant Place in the World: https://bit.ly/3Qo3FYgRead Joy and Pain Over Generations: https://bit.ly/4hGNt0bJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

The prophet Isaiah repeatedly mocks them for carving idols to worship out of half a log, and cooking dinner with the other half. How could anyone think that “god” could save them?We read in 1 Samuel that rebellion is like the sin of witchcraft, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry (1 Samuel 15:23).Wow! I need to examine my rebellious tendencies.God understands our struggles, but He gives us every reason not to rebel.Judy's Resources:Read Words of My Life 4: Surrender: https://bit.ly/4aMx4o0Read My Rebellion, My Idols: https://bit.ly/40ZdDFiJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Today we are talking about liberation.As we consider the strongholds in the lives of our loved ones—and perhaps ourselves—be sure to note the verses that will give you hope.Judy's Resources:Read Breaking Life Bondages: https://bit.ly/3C79gP7Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

A new year lifts us up, shaking off the remnants of last year's mistakes, opening a panorama of a better future. We love to leave the hurts and failures of yesterday, believing that tomorrow is filled with sunshine and promise. Except, when you love a prodigal. Too often fears win out. You hope, but you dare not “get your hopes up.” You dream, hoping it doesn't once again become a nightmare. You believe, but always with clouds of doubt blocking the brightness you desire. Can we have hope for the new year? Assuredly so! Judy's Resources:Read “Can you dare to hope?”: http://tinyurl.com/mufeb349Read “The Lament of a Sigh”: http://tinyurl.com/2s3bvxu7Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Lord, please, for Christmas could my child come home? Would you set him free from his addictions? May they see the emptiness and destructiveness of their choices. And, Lord, may we have peace in our family for Christmas.When you love a prodigal, your heart yearnings for your loved one seem to intensify at Christmas time. But we can ask for those heart's desires—from God and from that prodigal.Judy's Resources:Read The Gifts of Advent https://tinyurl.com/34h24mjwJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

If you have listened to many of my podcasts, then you know I encourage all of us to give thanks in everything.I got to practice what I preach in real life last week. And though this story is not about a prodigal, it's certainly a practice to live out before a prodigal or someone you hope never becomes a prodigal.Judy's Resources:Read Help for the Hard--no, Impossible--Times: https://bit.ly/3BpvxHpJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Judy Nelson Lewis and I go way back. She's been a magazine editor, writer, and now a spiritual director. We had a great conversation about advent, waiting, and how that can help us through our prodigal journey. It's a gift to you.Judy Nelson Lewis' Resources:Website: https://www.judynelsonlewis.comEnter for a chance to win Judy's new book, Exhale: https://judydouglass.com/bookgiveawayJudy's Resources:Read Waiting with Hope: https://bit.ly/3VlMolgRead Prayers of Hope and Blessing for Christmas: https://bit.ly/4iabk9fJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

In Philippian 4:6 the instructions are more specific: Pray about everything, with thanksgiving. Pray, of course. Give thanks? Much harder.But that is exactly what we are told to do, even in scary, out-of-control circumstances. Give thanks. It has been one of the most important, helpful, even life-changing truths I have learned.Judy's Resources:Read Give Thanks:Pray with Thanksgiving - https://bit.ly/3VbqvoJJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Our natural response in times of uncertainty and in life with a prodigal and the fears and frustrations we encounter, is to name everything that is wrong, to complain about all we don't like. And our God receives our honest laments.But He also encourages us to give thanks. In everything. Seriously? How do we do that?Judy's Resources:Read Give Thanks: In Everything. - https://bit.ly/41cxTULJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

I was reading Barbara Rainey's blog recently and saw a post Relating to Your Adult Children. For most of the years God has had me in a loving a prodigal ministry, we have focused mostly on teens and young adults. But in recent years I hear more and more stories from parents whose adult children have separated from them—some a little, many because of rejecting their faith, and many who have completely cut off contact with their parents.Today Dennis and Barbara are giving us practical and surprising ways to keep that relationship positive and healthyThe Rainey's Resources:Website: https://www.theraineys.orgListen to The Dennis & Barbara Podcast: https://www.theraineys.org/podcastsLearn more about FamilyLife: https://www.familylife.comRead Barbara's Book, My Heart, Ever His: Prayers for Women : https://a.co/d/dAOSNbNJudy's Resources:Read How to Be a Peacemaker: https://bit.ly/3YZguNFRead What to Wear as a Follower of Jesus: Humility: https://bit.ly/4fFqQaYJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

As I have listened to the stories of friends' prodigals and prayed for my son and many others, God took me on a journey back into the wilderness. Gratefully I was reminded over and over of the transforming truths that I have learned on that path. And I am still learning. These truths are gifts! Let me remind us all of some of the gifts we receive on a prodigal journey.Judy's Resources:Read God's Birthday Gifts to Me: https://bit.ly/3UCFo3cJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Today, October 29, 2024, marks two years since my wonderful husband, Steve, was called home to Heaven.He was a wise, loving man, and had much to offer everyone he encountered. Today's podcast is a gift from Steve, telling of his walk with God and his discovery of true peace. I believe you will be blessed by it.Judy's Resources:Read How to Live and Love Like Jesus by Steve Douglass: https://bit.ly/3C5YgB5Read Living Under Pressure by Steve Douglass: https://bit.ly/3O3UN93Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

In all my years of loving a prodigal and seeking to help others love their prodigal, one word has been the key, the difference, the change agent: GRACEEarly in my journey with my prodigal, God gave me a guiding word. He said, “When you make mistakes with this boy, and you will, (and I did), make them on the side of grace.”There is so much grace for you and your prodigal in this episode.Judy's Resources:Read Amazing Grace! blog: https://bit.ly/3C32JnTFree Ebook, Embracing Grace: https://judydouglass.com/embracinggraceJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

About 10 years ago we went through a scary time with our adopted son.Josh had twice, in response to great disappointments, threatened to take his life. We reasoned with him, assured him of our love, stayed with him. Gratefully, he backed down, but we were on alert.Josh's birth grandfather—Papa—was the most important person in his life. Papa was slowly failing, with various ailments claiming more and more of his 88-year-old body. We were holding our breath. Have you been in that place with your prodigal—fearful of what the next steps might be? Don't miss this episode.Judy's Resources:Read When Life Gets Scary: https://bit.ly/489RAh3Read Words of Hope: https://bit.ly/484KjPPJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Does that title entice you? In your journey with a prodigal, would you like to be moving from guilt to grace? Our guest today is Dawn Ward, a life and mental health coach, writer, speaker, and one of us. Her ministry is Faith to Flourish and her brand new book is From Guilt to Grace. After a long family journey of prodigalness, addiction and guilt, an “aha” moment marked the turning point.Dawn's Resources:Website: https://www.thefaithtoflourish.comBuy From Guilt to Grace: https://a.co/d/3quYWbPYouTube: https://youtube.com/thefaithtoflourishwithdawnwardFollow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaithtoflourishblogFollow on FB: https://www.facebook.com/thefaithtoflourishEnter to win a copy of From Guilt to Grace: https://judydouglass.com/bookgiveawayJudy's Resources:Read The Dust of Our Lives: https://bit.ly/47ZA13xRead Grace Stoops: https://bit.ly/3XVwYoiJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

It's noisy out there, isn't it? Online, at school, in the neighborhood. And certainly in your home when you have a prodigal. So many strong but differing opinions!We often seem to be more committed to making our point and hopefully getting others to agree. We don't always listen to what others are saying.If you think about it, asking questions implies something so critical to relating to others: a willingness to listen.Judy's Resources:Read Jesus on Leading: Be an Advocate: https://bit.ly/3zuF2UZRead Listen to Someone You Love: https://bit.ly/4eLQDxORead How's Your Heart: Questions from Michelle Beckman: https://bit.ly/4eKZwYwJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Today, I am chatting with Nancy Squires, and she's a new friend. And she has a ministry called the Just Be Held Retreats, and we're going to get to learn what those are, how they came about, and how you might engage.Nancy's Resources:Website: https://justbeheldministries.orgFollow on Instagram: instagram.com/justbeheldretreatsOn the website, you can find information regarding their retreats, extra resources and ways to make a tax-deductible donation.Judy's Resources:Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

It's the five year anniversary of my book, When You Love a Prodigal, the inspiration for this podcast! So I thought we should take it back to the beginning of the podcast and revisit the core question of “what is a prodigal?”.People ask me what “prodigal” means—there are several definitions out there. We will define what we are meaning on this podcast and the how, when and why a person might become a prodigal. Some are rebellious or "bad," but many begin to make destructive choices because of the challenges in their lives, because of many levels of trauma.Judy's Resources:Turning Curses into Blessings blog postRestoring Prodigals blog postJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Most of us are bruised people who desperately need to be reminded, however subtly, that hope is real, grace is often present, goodness counts, love is possible and our lives matter. I believe this is more than mere artistic preference: the human race depends upon it.And people who love a prodigal depend on it.Here are 10 reasons you can keep hoping.Judy's Resources:When the News Is Bad…Here's Some Help https://bit.ly/3wTVOcrJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

You don't expect to find one of your best gifts ever when you are wandering through the wilderness. A walk in the wilderness might be lovely if you're a nature lover and you keep your eyes open. You could discover some real gems: colorful creatures, spectacular plants, encounters with startling animals, an astounding array of colors and shapes underwater, hidden waterfalls.But a walk in the wilderness could also be frightening and full of surprises that turn out to be dangerous: snakes, spiders, poisonous plants, wild animals.This is more like the wilderness we know as lovers of prodigalsResources:Immersed in His Mercy: https://tinyurl.com/2v43kmkeJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://bit.ly/3qzjAqY

Most of us want our own way. And when life is going our way, we are happy, even joyful. But when circumstances, or our prodigal, or God interferes with our way, our joy can disappear. We also have an enemy, who is enticing our prodigal, and loving to steal our joy.Resources:Read the devotional: judydouglass.com/blog/joy-3-winning-the-warJoy—Jonny Diaz https://youtu.be/-GjW1pSYgUkJoy of the Lord—Maverick City https://youtu.be/sbFq7YQM1JsJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://bit.ly/3qzjAqY

Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring--it didn't matter. The years of our prodigal journey unfolded with occasional good days, but with many more challenging ones.I could easily be overwhelmed, until I slowly learned to look to God and hold on to the truths I was slowly absorbing. I wrote this simple list of the top ten lessons I've learned from God and the more I focused on the Lord and these truths, the more I could walk in peace.Resources: Read 25 Things I Have Learned About God: https://bit.ly/25thingsaboutgodJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3l1JPmyStay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judy-douglass-815aa358/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://bit.ly/3qzjAqY

If we could relate to our wanderers as Jesus would have, we just might see a difference in the atmosphere in our home and relationship.Today we take up gentleness.Harsh. Angry. Strident. Contentious.We can easily be drawn into the debate, the disagreement, the conflict. Our opinion is right, and we must affirm it. So we join the cacophony.This scene displays anything but gentleness, and surely doesn't live out this word from Proverbs: “A gentle answer turns away wrath,…” (Proverbs 15:1) And most of us have experienced this result at some time in our homes, and with our prodigals.Judy's Resources:Read Words of My Life: Gentle: http://tinyurl.com/yy4s6t2mRead What to Wear as a Follower of Jesus: http://tinyurl.com/4ptju9bnJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

My husband was a hard-working man. Our prodigal, in his younger years, was not. One day my husband came home and our son was sitting on my car watching his friends work on his car. My husband's response was, “Can't you help them fix your car, or at least learn from them. You're just sitting watching them work.”My husband rarely got angry, but he did that day. He came and sat down to talk to God about it. The Lord had a question: “How big is the gap between you and your son?” “It's pretty big, when it comes to work,” he replied.Then the Lord said, “How big is the gap between you and Me?”Judy's Resources:Read Learned from Children: Go Low: http://tinyurl.com/bde7t2afRead Jesus on Leading: Humility: http://tinyurl.com/yp64wn9rJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

This is the third episode of a three-part series on Prayer that Opens Doors. We looked at Praise first, then Thanks last week. And today we consider a powerful key that can open tightly shut doors—and minds and hearts.When someone near you sneezes, do you, or does someone nearby say, “God bless you”? It happens often, doesn't it.Do you hear or say “God bless you” any other time? Not too often, I imagine.Yet we are called to be people of blessing—as a way of life.Judy's Resources:Read The Power of Blessing: https://tinyurl.com/24u9xw4uRead Turning Scripture into Blessing: https://tinyurl.com/3urbntc9A Blessing for a Loved Prodigal: judydouglass.com/blessingforalovedprodigalListen to Blessings Everywhere: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiyQsHKnCvcJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://bit.ly/3qzjAqY

I used to think I knew how to pray. Then this wilderness journey with my wandering son required desperate prayer. And I moved into a new dimension of what it meant to pray.Even now I realize I still know so little about praying. Prayer is a wonder I can barely comprehend. Sometimes I feel woefully inadequate and terribly ineffective—does anything happen when I pray?Resources:Free Ebook: https://judydouglass.com/prayersforyourwildernessjourneyJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube:https://bit.ly/3qzjAqY

In kids' sports there is often a “mercy rule.”If one team gets far ahead, the game is called. It seems only kind and fair to not embarrass or demoralize the kids who are losing so badly.In life it rarely works that way. There is no mercy rule, no rescue from your losses, your hurts, your failures. But in God's Kingdom, Jesus instituted a Mercy Rule.Resources:Mercy Music: Mercy, Matt Redman https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuxzcJps6eoJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://bit.ly/3qzjAqY

I would love for you to celebrate Steve with me on July 12, which would have been his 79th birthday. Steve had many gifts, strengths and qualities, which blessed me over and over. Here's a replay episode full of Steve's wisdom:Steve always wanted his life—the way he lived, loved, spoke, treated people, used his time, everything—to reflect Jesus. He wanted people to be drawn to Jesus because of the way he lived. Most of us desire that too—for all the people in our lives, but especially for our loved prodigals. Hopefully these words from Steve will encourage us and help us as we seek to demonstrate what it looks like to walk with God to a watching world, and personally too our wanderers.Steve's Resources:Experiencing God's Peace https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mnC4isLVPUSteve's Memorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCDkkBmmYjcMaking Your Life Count Resources: https://makingyourlifecount.org/#/ Steve's Books:Enjoying Your Walk with God: https://tinyurl.com/4mhfy2cjHow to Achieve Your Potential and Enjoy Life: https://tinyurl.com/4t2dfaweHow to Get Better Grades and Have More Fun: Request book by emailing Judy@judydouglass.comJudy's Resources:Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://bit.ly/3qzjAqY

From the day I was born, I wanted my own way. Growing up, my getting my way pretty much determined the peace and happiness in our home. As a teenager, getting my own way included secretly seeing a forbidden boyfriend for most of a year and other things.Do you identify? Don't most of us want our own way? Why?Resources:Read: Growing a Tender Heart for Prodigals and Those who Love Them https://bit.ly/3KpnMRVJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3l1JPmyStay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417X: twitter.com/judydouglass417YouTube: https://bit.ly/3qzjAqY

Last week was the 150th episode so I thought we'd go back and revisit our last milestone with episode 100:I had never even listened to a podcast when I was asked to do this one. But my team and my husband said, when I was reluctant, “You can't turn down this great opportunity God has given you!!” So I said yes.And it has been such a privilege to travel with you on your prodigal wilderness journey, learning with you, hopefully helping and encouraging you. I have been so blessed as I did each podcast, as I was reminded of all that God had done in my life—and is still and again. What a blessing to be able to turn the very hard years of my prodigal wilderness with our son into words and stories to benefit you and many others. (You can hear him tell his story in Episode 50.)Resources:You Want Me to Do a Podcast? https://tinyurl.com/bdfesbmvJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://bit.ly/3qzjAqY

My special guest today, Margaret Philbrick, will take us on an intriguing journey through an unusual approach to loving our prodigals.Today we are talking about art, a topic I know little about. But Margaret does. She will take us through an introduction to Henri Nouwen's book The Return of the Prodigal Son, a reflection on Rembrandt's painting of The Prodigal Son. And then on to adventure and intrigue in Italy.Yes, I couldn't put it down. I read all night.Margaret's Resources:Website: https://margaretphilbrick.comRead House of Honor: The Heist of Caravaggio's Nativity : https://a.co/d/iqqgFWFRead A Minor: A Novel of Love, Music, and Memory : https://a.co/d/0j2fQzhEnter to win a copy of House of Honor: https://judydouglass.com/bookgiveawayJudy's Resources:Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

What I want to share with you today are some practical ways for you to REALLY love your prodigal. Your situation may be very different from ours—and the illustrations I use, but the suggestions I will give you can be helpful whatever your reality.And I'm giving you an easy to remember acrostic: R.E.A.L.L.Y.Resources:Learn about love languages: https://5lovelanguages.com/learnJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417Twitter: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://bit.ly/3qzjAqY

We did it! We prayed for all those names on our list of treasured prodigals. What a privilege!And what a battle it was--always! I am always exhausted at the end of the day. We—and those we pray for—have an enemy who doesn't like that we are on our knees on their behalf. He will do all he can to keep us fearful. And he sought to interfere with our efforts.But “thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ's triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere.” (2 Corinthians 2:14)In honor of Worldwide Prodigal Prayer Day I am giving away 5 copies of my book, When You Love a Prodigal. Enter Here: https://judydouglass.com/bookgiveawayJudy's Resources:For more resources go to my website: https://judydouglass.com/podcastSongs to help to calm your fears: https://bit.ly/FearNotPlaylistJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQHope for Hurting Parents: https://hopeforhurtingparents.com/Prayer for Prodigals Facebook: facebook.com/Prayer4ProdigalsSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Facebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

This is the third of three posts leading up to June 2 Worldwide Prodigal Prayer Day. Our theme this year is Fear Not. Some time ago, in the midst of some hopeful signs in a long-ongoing situation, that fear returned. With force. Irrationally. Because when I hoped, when things looked like they were changing for the better, but then maybe they weren't, I became afraid to hope. I remember the past, and it was painful, disappointing, filled with despair. What if, once more, the hope is not fulfilled, if the undesirable wins out again?Do you have a loved one you want prayer for on the June 2 Prodigal Prayer Day? Write to us at PrayerforProdigals@gmail.com or go to the Prayer for Prodigals Facebook page. Give us the first name of a prodigal you want prayer for.To learn how you can be a part of Prodigal Prayer Day, check out this link: https://judydouglass.com/prayerdayJoin the Zoom Prayer Call on June 2nd hosted by Hope for Hurting Parents. Register at this link: https://bit.ly/registerprayerdayzoomJudy's Resources:For more resources go to my website: https://judydouglass.com/podcastSongs to help to calm your fears: https://bit.ly/FearNotPlaylistJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQHope for Hurting Parents: https://hopeforhurtingparents.com/Prayer for Prodigals Facebook: facebook.com/Prayer4ProdigalsSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Facebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

This is the second of three episodes leading up to June 2 Worldwide Prodigal Prayer Day. Our theme this year is Fear Not. These articles are designed to prepare us as we engage in battle for the hearts and minds of loved ones who are “prodigal” in one or more of many ways. And if you have fears of any kind, read on.When you love a prodigal, the fear can be overwhelming, can't it! Whether your prodigal is your teen child or adult child, a spouse, a sibling, a parent, a friend… Fear can be pervasive when you love a prodigal.Do you have a loved one you want prayer for on the June 2 Prodigal Prayer Day? Write to us at PrayerforProdigals@gmail.com or go to the Prayer for Prodigals Facebook page. Give us the first name of a prodigal you want prayer for.To learn how you can be a part of Prodigal Prayer Day, check out this link: https://judydouglass.com/prayerdayJudy's Resources:For more resources go to my website: https://judydouglass.com/podcastSongs to help to calm your fears: https://bit.ly/FearNotPlaylistJoin the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQHope for Hurting Parents: https://hopeforhurtingparents.com/Prayer for Prodigals Facebook: facebook.com/Prayer4ProdigalsSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Facebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass