"But He Was Angry And Would Not Go In"

In the parable of the lost son (Luke 15:11-32), we’re inclined to single out the prodigal son as having a more degenerate character than his elder brother. However, it’s worth noting that when the story ends, the prodigal is restored, forgiven, and full of joy, while the elder brother stands outside and refuses to go in (Luke 15:28).

Luke’s record of the stay-at-home son is more than mere background filler to the story. He makes us think about the disposition of our heart, for negative attitudes create untold misery (Proverbs 12:25; Proverbs 15:13; Proverbs 17:22; cf. Jonah 1:1-17; Jonah 2:1-9).

When we sow the seeds of discontent, jealousy, bitterness, resentment, defensiveness, and ingratitude toward others, we reap results that ruin our marriages, alienate our children, our friends, and embitter every life we touch — including our own (Gal. 6:7 ESV).

It’s easy to defend our resentful attitudes and to slide into deception and hypocrisy. But we must guard our hearts against such destructive attitudes. When they arise, we need to confess them, let them go, and experience God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9; cf. Psalm 32:5; Psalm 51:2; Proverbs 28:13).

Let’s not allow resentful and destructive attitudes cause us to experience bitterness, while others are experiencing great joy. Remember that resentment comes from looking at others; contentment comes from looking at the Lord (cf. 1 Timothy 6:3-6; Colossians 3:1-10; Hebrews 12:1-2 NASB).

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets