There's No Running From God

"Then Yahweh provided a vine and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade over his head and to ease his discomfort." - Jonah 4:6

Most of you should be familiar with the story of Jonah. Jonah heard the voice of God one day that told him to go to Ninevah and tell everyone to repent or He would destroy the city. But Jonah decided to run away from God and not go to Ninevah so he got on a boat to leave when God stirred up a powerful storm in the sea almost bringining destruction upon the ship. All those aboard realized that God provoked the storm because of Jonah and threw him overboard where God sent a whale to swallow him and take him to dry land. Repented of his disobedience, Jonah went to Ninevah and all in the city took notice and asked God for forgiveness of their sins. When Jonah saw this, he became angry and told God that he made him look like a fool now since he preached disaster and nothing happened for he knew that God was merciful and always listens to those who call upon His name. In his anger, Jonah left the city to a place where he could watch Ninevah and see if the Lord decided to destroy it. But despite Jonah's anger, God let a vine grow over Jonah's head so that the heat wouldn't harm him and he could have shade and comfort.

There are a few things we can take away from this story. First of all is that when God calls us to do something, there is no avoiding it. God will bring a storm and a whale to swallow you if need be! Second of all there is also the fact that despite getting mad at God, disobeying Him and then getting mad at Him for forgiving people, God still had mercy on Jonah by nurturing Him in the heat. God doesn't need to do this for us but He does. He always looks to comfort us through our problems in subtle ways that we might not even realize!

Today's Prayer:
My God, Your goodness knows no bounds. Guide me in Your ways so that I know what You want from me and do not run from Your will but strive to obey it. In all things, show me Your mercy so that I can feel Your presence and Your comfort. In Your Name we pray, Amen.