So Jonah arose and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the Lord. Jonah 3:3
Chapter 3 of Jonah opens with, ‘Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah the second time.’ Although God was displeased, and most likely saddened, with how Jonah had acted, he forgave him and provided another opportunity to fulfil the task. Jonah may have tried to shut out God’s voice but the Creator can speak in many ways, including through a storm. But, God really shouldn’t have to go to extremes, though, to get our attention.
First and foremost, God communicates with us as we meditate on his word and listen. If I am reading the scriptures and hearing nothing, then I have to ask myself what I have done, or am doing, to block God’s voice. On the other hand, if I am hearing God’s voice and doing nothing, then the question is, ‘why am I blocking his will?’
Jonah did not want to block God’s will again, so having received the message a second time to go to Nineveh, he decided to do exactly what was asked. Regardless of his feelings for the people of that city, the size of the task itself must have been completely daunting. At that time, Nineveh was one of the largest populated cities in the world, and the walls of the city were said to have been 12km long, 53ft high and 49ft wide. One man was being sent to that great city with a message from the LORD God of Israel. Let’s be honest, that thought alone might make you run.
Jonah followed God’s direction and delivered the warning that the city would be overthrown if they did not turn from their wickedness. The people believed him and so did the king, who covered himself with sackcloth and sat in ashes. The whole city fasted and called on the mercy of God. I’m sure that not even Jonah was expecting that response, but that is the incredible wonder of God’s word; it has the power to reach even the darkest heart.
When we are obedient to God and answer his call to share the gospel, great things can happen in the most unlikely of places. Don’t be intimidated by the size of the task, rather, be excited about what God can achieve.
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