Many of us think the hardest seasons of life are the most dangerous for our faith.
But surprisingly, it is often the seasons of comfort, success, and prosperity that quietly pull us away from God.
When life is going well, we can slowly drift. Our prayers become less frequent. Our dependence on God fades. And before we realise it, our hearts have wandered.
Yet the beautiful truth of the Gospel is this: even when we drift away, God never stops pursuing us.
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https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/drifting-in-prosperity-returning-in-grace/
The Hidden Danger of Prosperity
As Christians, we often assume that trials and suffering are the greatest threats to our faith.
But prosperity can sometimes be even more dangerous.
When life is comfortable, we may begin to rely on temporary things;, such as our income, status, possessions, intelligence, relationships, or environment.
These things can create a false sense of security. When everything appears stable, we may stop seeking God as intentionally as we once did.
Prayer becomes less urgent. Time with God becomes less frequent. Slowly, we may begin drifting away.
Israel’s Example
Throughout the Old Testament, we see this pattern repeatedly in the story of Israel.
When God rescued them and provided for them during hardship, they sought Him passionately.
But when life became comfortable and prosperous, they often forgot the very God who had saved them and turned toward idols instead.
Human nature has not changed much since then.
A Personal Season of Drifting
Not long ago, I experienced my own season of drifting.
I allowed myself to become deeply offended by members of my church congregation. Instead of dealing with the hurt, I withdrew completely. I refused to attend church and even influenced my husband to stop going as well.
I knew God was there, but I stubbornly refused to turn toward Him.
The only thing I continued doing was praying for my children each night.
Before long, I found myself exploring New Age practices and Buddhism, searching for comfort, strength, and answers in places that ultimately offered none.
When the World’s Promises Fall Short
Five years later, my life looked successful on the outside.
We had a higher income, a bigger house, a nicer car, and a lifestyle that appeared impressive.
But inside, I was deeply unhappy.
We were heavily in debt. My husband and I argued constantly. I became a workaholic, believing my value came from what I produced and owned.
I trusted no one.
My marriage was falling apart. Eventually we separated, sold everything, and paid off our debts.
It is astonishing how quickly a life can unravel when we move away from God.
Grace That Never Gives Up
Thankfully, my husband Peter never gave up on me.
Over time we began repairing our relationship. I asked him for forgiveness, and he graciously gave it. We began speaking honestly with each other in ways we never had before.
We made a commitment that no matter how difficult things became, divorce would no longer be an option.
Slowly, we rebuilt our marriage.
And through it all, God never abandoned me either.
The God Who Searches for Us
I know with absolute certainty that this passage is true:
“If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray?”
Matthew 18:12–14
Even when we wander, God comes looking for us.
He pursues us with relentless love.
The Moment That Brought Me Back
Several years later, the near death of my grandson became a turning point in my life.
God does not cause tragedy. But He used that painful moment to awaken my heart and draw me back to Him.
When I finally turned toward God again, He welcomed me exactly like the father in the story of the prodigal son.
… “But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him.”
Luke 15:20 (NASB)
That is the heart of our Father.
When we return, He does not shame us. He runs toward us.
Restoring the Lost Years
Since returning to God, my faith has grown stronger than ever before.
My husband and I are closer than we have ever been. Our relationship is deeper, more honest, and more loving.
And I have seen God begin restoring the years that were lost.
“So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten…”
Joel 2:25 (ESV)
God truly does redeem what seems broken.
The latter years really can become sweeter than the former ones.
An Invitation to Return
If you have wandered away from God, please know this:
He still loves you.
Turning back to Him is simpler than you may think. Speak honestly with Him. Ask for forgiveness. Invite Him back into your life.
Like the father in the prodigal son story, God will run toward you.
He will meet you more than halfway.
Growing Strong Again
If you have recently returned to God, I encourage you to nurture that relationship.
Spend time reading Scripture, especially the Gospels, where we see the heart of the Father revealed.
Make time daily for prayer and worship.
And find a church community where you can grow, be encouraged, and walk alongside others in faith.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You that Your love never gives up on us, even when we wander far from You.
Thank You for pursuing us with grace and welcoming us home with open arms.
Help us remain close to You in every season. In times of hardship and in times of abundance.
Restore what has been lost and strengthen our faith as we walk with You each day.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Activation
Take a quiet moment today to reflect on your relationship with God.
Ask yourself:
Have I drifted away in any area of my life?
If the answer is yes, simply turn back toward Him.
Speak honestly to God and invite Him to renew your heart.
Remember, it is never too late to return.
If you enjoyed this message, please consider sharing it with someone who may need encouragement today.
I would love to hear from you, have you returned after wandering away? Feel free to comment or subscribe so you don’t miss future posts.
You can also listen to more episodes of The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast here:
https://ozsazzles.podbean.com
God bless you and your family.
Right now is always the best time to begin.
References:
https://www.freebibleimages.org/
https://www.openbible.info/topics/
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/
Jesus 4 Generations 
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