Subscription Lists

Jonah had an attitude like I have… he didn’t want God to bless the enemy, so Jonah refused to go where God directed him. (Is it coincidence that I declared I was no longer going to my home church earlier this week?) Jonah outright disobeyed God, yet still proclaimed his faith in the Lord to sailors on the boat. The sailors (who were pagans) told Jonah to pray to God to calm the sea, but Jonah, with his attitude, went to sleep. I could imagine him thinking, “I am over this following God stuff!” Eventually, God saves him after he prays, and sends him once again to the enemy. Jonah goes, and the people listen to his words, and receives the Lord’s mercy and restoration. Jonah, however, still has an attitude and goes to sit above the city by himself. He tells God in so many words, “I knew you were going to bless them! I knew you wouldn’t punish them! Just let me die right now… I don’t want to live anymore!” Then the shade tree that sheltered Jonah was destroyed, making Jonah even angrier. The Lord asked him if he had a right to be mad… and Jonah (I love this part!) said yes, he did! (oh, how I relate!). God pointed out that Jonah cared about the tree than he cared for more than 120,000 lost people and their cattle (showing He cares about animals!). I am so thankful that God doesn’t limit His mercy and grace the way I tend to do. I am so thankful God doesn’t write people off when they disappoint and hurt Him the way I tend to do. And I am so thankful that God looks the whole picture, giving second chances, and meets people where they are… the way I want to do.

"Bible verse and quote" from Jan Couns

Bible and Quote - February 25 - March 1

Read Article »