When God Calls: Reflections on the Book of Jonah

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We have been hearing the story of Jonah since Sunday school, and probably even the kids know it very well. We have also heard various powerful messages from the men of God about the story.

But have we ever thought to examine; Who is Jonah and why did God choose Jonah to convey his message to the people of Nineveh? What is so special about the Book of Jonah?

As we read in the Bible, God mostly used prophets to convey His message to the people. Similarly, Jonah was the son of Amittai and a prophet in the Northern Kingdom at a time when King Jeroboam was successfully expanding the occupied land held by the ten tribes. Some studies also say that Jonah ruled during/before the time of Amos and Hosea.

When we cut short the story, since the wickedness increased in the place of Nineveh, God used Jonah to demonstrate His mercy and love even though they were distant from Him. Also to remind them that they are still His people and to tell them that He is still watching their actions towards each other & God.

When we reflect on the passage carefully, we see 4 stages of the life of Jonah in this book:

1.   Jonah says "I WON'T GO" (1: 1-4) (Disobedience)

2.   Jonah says "I WILL GO" (2: 1-10) (Repented)

3.   Jonah says "I'M HERE" (3: 1-5) (Obedience)

4.   Jonah says "I SHOULDN'T HAVE COME" (4: 1-11) (Displeased)

In this story, we see the disobedience of Jonah and the consequences faced by Jonah for the same. Many times when we hear God's calling, we say "I WON'T or Am not going to do it", thinking that ministry or serving God can affect our luxurious lives or we get scared to step out of our comfort zone. Another reason could be the fear of People talking about our past lives etc.

But through Jonah's story, we clearly understand that we can't escape from God when He has chosen us for something great. Jonah's attempt to flee from God's command demonstrates that no matter where we go, we cannot escape from God's presence or His will.

Also, when we look at the storm at sea, the whale, a leafy plant (4:6), a worm (4:7), and the sun blazing(4:8) incidents, they remind us that every creature obeys God's instructions and demonstrate God's power and control over all situations.

From the whole story of Jonah, there are a few key lessons that we should learn to experience God's amazing deliverance in our lives:

  • Firstly, we see Jonah call on (pray to) God as soon as he understands his mistake when he is in the belly of the whale.

  • Secondly, we see the people of Nineveh fast and pray to God as soon as they understand their wickedness.

  • Thirdly, we see the most beautiful creatures of God who obeyed God on their first calling.

  • Finally, we see the love of God, His caring & concern towards us in (4:11). Which says, "And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?", even when we are away from Him.

In addition, we see how merciful God is:

  • Even after disobeying, God allowed Jonah to redeem himself by fulfilling his mission to Nineveh. (God's Mercy on Jonah)

  • Despite the wickedness of the people of Nineveh, God has shown mercy and compassion by giving them a chance to repent. (God's Mercy on Nineveh)

Similarly, In our lives, we prioritize our favorite people, our Jobs, studies, and worldly things over God to escape or deviate from the will of God. But, God is a loving God, who'll never you nor forsake you as promised in Joshua 1:5.

God is still waiting to FORGIVE & GIVE us a second chance, believe in him, and repent.

Let us experience the great love and mercy of God through deliverance.



Citations /References :

  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Jonah
  • https://www.quora.com/Why-did-God-choose-Jonah-as-a-prophet-Doesnt-his-character-lack-much-more-than-all-the-other-prophets

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