𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

Let me begin by emphasizing that “deliverance” is not used here in the casual or superficial way it may sometimes be portrayed. Rather, it is used deliberately—to describe a genuine disentanglement from situations and conditions that have held one bound, whether for a short or prolonged period.

Walk with me as we draw from the timeless well of wisdom in Yoruba philosophy.

It is often said that when a mad person becomes conscious of their madness, healing and restoration are near. Another popular Yoruba proverb offers:
“Ti ọmọde bá ṣubú, a wò iwájú; ti àgbà bá ṣubú, a wò ẹ̀yìn nibi tó ti fi ẹsẹ̀ kọ.”
(When a child falls, they look ahead; when an elder falls, they look back to see where they stumbled.)

The first proverb is fairly self-explanatory. The second, however, provides a profound insight. It reminds us that youth—whether by age or inexperience—may fall and simply continue onward without reflection. In contrast, maturity teaches us to look back, assess the cause, and learn, preventing future reoccurrences. The Yoruba conclude:
“Iná èsísì kìí jó ni lẹ́ẹ̀mejì” (An avoidable mistake should not happen twice.)
The biblical equivalent would be: “Affliction shall not rise up the second time.”

Still with me?

Before we go further, let me assert this foundational truth: Love brings deliverance.

Life is a tapestry of ups and downs. Everyone makes mistakes—some forgivable, some not so easily overlooked. Yet, the moment introspection enters the picture, a turning point emerges. It is when we begin asking the uncomfortable questions:

• Why am I doing this?
• Who or what is being hurt by my actions?
• What pattern keeps repeating in my life?

It is in that moment of honest reflection that a shift begins.

Genuine repentance—born out of deep introspection—ushers in deliverance. As Scripture says:
“Let him that stole steal no more.”
It is through introspection that one becomes aware of the harm being done—to others and to self.

Let us consider the story of the Prodigal Son.

That parable offers a beautiful narrative of introspection, repentance, and love—culminating in total deliverance. When he hit rock bottom, feeding swine and craving their food, he didn’t first think about regaining sonship. He thought of sustenance. He acknowledged his mistakes—first to God, then to his father—and resolved to return home, even if only as a servant.

But what did he find?

A father waiting in love, arms wide open. His father didn’t judge him as wasteful or foolish. Instead, he embraced him, restoring his dignity.

Meanwhile, his elder brother, though dutiful, failed to understand the power of inheritance and grace. That story is a call for us to add knowledge to faith, as enjoined in 2 Peter.

Without introspection, the Prodigal Son would have died in misery. But with it—and through love—his deliverance was complete.

Just imagine the effect of love on someone burdened by guilt or regret. Sometimes, love heals faster than a thousand days of dry fasting or religious ritual.

We often judge more and love less. Yet, loving the “unlovable” may deliver them from cycles of self-destruction more effectively than condemnation ever could.

So I ask you:

• Will you pause to reflect on why you feel stuck?
• Will you, like the Prodigal Son, dare to turn from what entangles you?
• Will you extend love to someone who might be waiting for it as their only hope?

I invite you to consider these questions deeply. And if your perspective differs, I welcome your thoughts. Dialogue enriches us all.

If this reflection resonated with you, you’ll find more thought-provoking insights in my book:
𝐒𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐬 – 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞, 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞.
It is available now and offers a stimulating journey through heritage, spirituality, and the demands of contemporary living.

We would love to hear your thoughts on the power of introspection in bringing lasting deliverance.