Cody Carnes - Run to the Father Devotional Sample

Run to the Father I run to the Father I fall into grace I’m done with the hiding No reason to wait The situations and circumstances can vary for each of us, but we can all find ourselves at different moments in life saying, “I need you, God.” For me, it was a relational conflict with my dad. We had grown apart and I was wrestling with what I should do. I needed God to show up. And it was in that place the heart of this song formed. I began to understand the power of running to God. It’s tempting to do the opposite. We want to figure things out on our own. We look for quick fixes. We reason away our need for God. Or, are too ashamed to go to Him. We see our mistakes, our failures, our mess-ups, and think God’s given up on us. That He’s too good. That we’ll be rejected, refused, or let down. But here’s the reality: When we run to God, we find a Father with open arms. And it’s in His open arms of love, grace, and mercy that we’ll find everything we need. He doesn’t bring shame or condemnation down upon us. He doesn’t embarrass us. God desires to look us in the eyes and tell us with a voice of love and kindness, “Welcome home.” I love the parable of the prodigal son because it shows us this very truth. While the son had run away, wasted his inheritance, and hoped his dad might let him come back home to at least work as a servant; the father had been waiting with open arms. Luke 15:20-24 (MSG) shows us… “When he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced him, and kissed him. The son started his speech: ‘Father, I’ve sinned against God, I’ve sinned before you; I don’t deserve to be called your son ever again.’ “But the father wasn’t listening. He was calling to the servants, ‘Quick. Bring a clean set of clothes and dress him. Put the family ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Then get a grain-fed heifer and roast it. We’re going to feast! We’re going to have a wonderful time! My son is here—given up for dead and now alive! Given up for lost and now found!’ And they began to have a wonderful time.” Is there a need in your life today? I want to encourage you to run to the Father. His arms are open, and He’s ready to give you everything you need and more.