Read: Jonah’s Anger at the LORD’s Compassion; Chapter 4:1-4
But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry. He prayed to the LORD, “Isn’t this what I said, LORD, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. Now, LORD, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.”
But the LORD replied, “Is it right for you to be angry?”
Yesterday we rejoiced at the Lord’ compassion and grace; but to Jonah this seemed very wrong. Jonah wanted to see the Ninevites punished. He had not expected them to repent and redeem themselves before God. Jonah is angry at God for being gracious and compassionate to the Ninevites. Jonah is angry at God for His abounding love. He is so angry that he asks God to take his life.
This may seem a bit dramatic, but I am ashamed to say that there have been times when I have seen the Lord give a “pass” to someone I didn’t feel deserved a break. And then I PAUSE…
How many times has the Lord shown mercy to ME when I did not deserve it? Can you think of a time when God has given you a break?
That is a beautiful thing about our God. He loves us. The same love and compassion He has for you, He has for me. The same mercy He shows You and me, He gives to our enemies. God feels we are ALL deserving of His grace. Yes, God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him would not be lost but have eternal life. John 3:16 ERV
Dear God, Thank you for Your love. We are called to love You and to love others. We are overwhelmed by Your mercy. Loving You is easy. Loving others can be a challenge. Help us to understand Your ways so that we, too, may be more compassionate and offer grace to our enemies. Help us love everyone like You do! In Jesus Name, Amen
Confessing our own sins and asking Jesus into our hearts is the first step to living a changed life – a life full of God’s love, walking with Jesus being filled with the Holy Spirit!
Please pray with me and ask Jesus into your heart:
Lord Jesus, I confess my sins and ask for your forgiveness. Please come into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Take complete control of my life and help me to walk in Your footsteps daily by the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank You, Lord, for saving me and for answering my prayer. Amen
