Every Family Has a Story

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We are beginning a series of messages that highlight key takeaways from speakers at our
recent One Woman conference. This week we begin with Dr. James Banks and his son Geoff
Banks.

At ONE Woman ’24, we hosted father/son duo James and Geoff Banks; James is the father of
Geoff, a former prodigal who walked away from God and the foundation provided by his
parents.

Their poignant story is one that includes addiction, jail, and multiple rehabs, while
encouraging parents to never give up on their children.

You can read about their experience in Hope Lies Ahead. The book will encourage anyone with a teenager or adult child who has
chosen to go ‘to the far country,’ far from God.

Their story, by God’s grace, is one of hope and redemption. This week I share my notes from
James’ perspective as the parent. Next week I will share Geoff’s perspective as a prodigal. I
pray these insights will be both informative and encouraging.

Notes from Dr. James Banks’ session: The Parent of a Prodigal (Luke 15)

You are not alone. You may feel judged by others (even yourself) but remember every
family has a story.

Prodigals are often from Christian families.
The enemy will go after your children if he can’t get to you.
Don’t give up on your children. Keep loving them. Pray God’s Word over them.
No one is too far for God to reach. NO ONE.
Our job is to be on the front porch with God, watching and praying. Wait with
Him in His strength.

God strengthens us when we turn to Him in prayer.

Prayer allows us to find strength and to remain peaceful.
A little bit of faith put in Jesus’ hands is enough.
Praying God’s Word is powerful.
Remember the demon-possessed child from Mark’s gospel who could not be
helped by the disciples. The prodigal child was set free only by fasting and
prayer. (See Mark 9:23-29)

God wastes nothing.