A poverty spirit is easy to spot. It shows up in both the Prodigal Son and the older brother (Luke 15:11–32). The Prodigal Son dominates the story; he is young, selfish and wants his inheritance before his father dies so he can leave home and see the world, all at the father’s expense. The father, surprisingly, grants his request. Why would any father do this? The key is that this story is not about just any father; it is about the heavenly Father. This act of kindness points to the character of God. It is not a. . .
