Scripture Reading: Jonah 4: 1
But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry.
Reflections: The city of Nineveh was infamous for its wickedness and sinful behaviour. As a result, Jonah was taken aback when God asked him to deliver a message of repentance to them. He believed they deserved to be judged and punished by God, so he initially refused the assignment. He consented to the task only after God saved him from dying at sea (Jonah 1 & 2). The people of Nineveh responded positively to Jonah’s message and repented their sins. But he became annoyed when God rescinded his decision to punish them. However, he learned that God’s ways are not subject to human rationalization in the long run. God is sovereign, and his ways differ entirely from ours (Isaiah 55:7-9). Like Jonah, thinking we have a better sense of judgment than God can lead us into trouble.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me appreciate your sovereignty and to understand that your ways are not like mine.
Confession: God’s ways are different.