When you make a commitment to the Lord, Satan will fight you. When you desire to serve the Lord but can’t spend time in fasting & prayer for your own ministry, then know those are strongholds.
Nineveh being a lawless, evil city that was famous for the worship of ‘Ishtar’ (a false god), aroused God’s anger. Lord instructs Jonah to go to Nineveh and warn its people about the coming judgment if they refuse to turn away from their wickedness.
Jonah, in his anger and prejudice, refused the first time. But the consequences of his rebellion: a fierce storm followed by swallowing by giant fish, humbled this prophet and he then agreed to follow God’s command. He prayed a prophetic prayer which resulted in his resurrection from the Fish’s belly, after 3 days and nights. This symbolized the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ!
Jonah refused to go and instead fled in the opposite direction. Why? Not because he was afraid of the people or that he thought his task was hopeless. He refused to go because he feared that the heathen people would follow God’s warning and thus receive His mercy. He knew His God was gracious and full of compassion!
Jonah’s disobedience caused destruction by storm that led to loss and danger to the travelers. In contrast, Apostle Paul, the New Testament missionary became a source of direction and courage to his fellow sailors during the stormy voyages, proclaiming His Lord! But the reluctant prophet Jonah, finally succeeded in saving the 120,000 people of Nineveh from destruction.
Lessons :
Just obey the Word of the Lord. Disobedience is costly: it cost Jonah a terrifying stay in the fish belly and the sailors’ all their cargo.
He who has called you will provide for the cause. He never gives up on us even when we choose to rebel. If we dodge our duty of witnessing for Him or following any other command, unfaithfulness will be our ruin.
God of Israel warns all men of their sinful ways seeking to turn them from destruction. In the greatness of His mercy, He sends a message before the coming disaster.
Jonah’s repentance is what brought his rescue – the fish!
Nineveh’s repentance changed God’s judgment into mercy! Destruction was averted!
Mistakes of Jonah teach us to be patient, merciful and to do God’s work without force. Do not live in anger or bitterness until death.
God ‘s mercy and salvation are for both Jews and gentiles who will repent and turn to him.
Where is your Nineveh? What is God’s assignment for you? Are you doing His Word?
