It's here: Part 9 of the 9 part series - how to get prayers answered
The Rhythm of The Prophets Part II - Day 12
DAILY DEVOTIONAL
10/12/20262 min read
Running From the God Who Called You
Jonah 1
“But Jonah arose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD.” — Jonah 1:3, NKJV
Jonah heard God clearly. There was no confusion about where he was supposed to go or what he was supposed to do. Nineveh needed to hear God's warning, and Jonah had been chosen to deliver it. But instead of heading toward Nineveh, he boarded a ship sailing in the opposite direction. What makes his decision so troubling is what we discover later in his story. Jonah knew God was gracious, merciful, slow to anger, and abundant in lovingkindness. He understood that if Nineveh repented, God might spare them. And that was precisely what Jonah did not want. He was willing to receive God's mercy for himself, but unwilling to carry that mercy to people he believed did not deserve it.
Before we shake our heads at Jonah, perhaps we should consider how easily his story can become ours. We may never run from a city God has called us to visit, but we can resist Him when His instructions challenge our preferences, prejudices, or comfort. Sometimes the struggle isn't understanding what God wants. We understand perfectly well; we simply don't want what He wants. Yet look at Jesus. He knew exactly what awaited Him in Jerusalem. He knew the suffering, rejection, and cross that stood before Him, but He continued toward the very people He had come to save. Even in Gethsemane, when the weight of that mission pressed upon Him, He surrendered to His Father's will. His love for humanity was greater than the suffering obedience would require.
And here's what makes Jonah's story even more remarkable. While Jonah was running away from God's assignment, God was still pursuing Jonah. The storm that interrupted his journey would eventually become part of the story of how God brought him back. What does that tell us about the God we serve? He cared about the people of Nineveh, but He also cared about the rebellious prophet He had called. Could it be that the very thing you're resisting God about is something He wants to use to change your heart? Perhaps the greater work God desires to accomplish through your obedience is the work He first wants to accomplish within you.
Consider whether there is something God has been asking of you that you've resisted because it challenges your comfort or preferences. Ask Jesus to help you see the situation through His heart and give you the willingness to obey.
Scripture Promise:
“For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” — Philippians 2:13, NKJV
Prayer:
Father, help me to see what you have been calling me to do, then give me the strength and the willingness to do it. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
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