How often are we held captive and don't realize we are!? Take Jonah for instance. Here is a man of God, a prophet, who was to deliver God's word. God gave him guidance and direction yet he refused. Refused what? To go to Ninevah! Why?
Because he believed they were an evil city in the Assyrian empire and deserved to be destroyed. Was this what God told him? NO! This was HIS BELIEF!
Jonah was being held captive by hate. Because of his hate, he could not see past it and could not see what God was offering to Ninevah, a second chance.
To read the story go to Jonah chapters 1-4. Jonah went through a storm on the sea, swallowed by a great fish, yet during this time he did pray. Then he went to Ninevah and preached that in 40 days Ninevah would be overthrown. The people of Ninevah believed God, by decree of the king they turned from their evil ways, wore sackcloth and repented. God saw this, but..........
The hatred in Jonah's heart was great. After going through the trials and struggles he created for himself by refusing to do God's wishes, he went to Ninevah. Ninevah repented!! Time for rejoicing???
Not to Jonah, he was angry, yes angry, pouting, and depressed because Ninevah repented and God did not destroy them. Jonah was held captive by HATRED!
Jonah, still being held captive by hatred was displeased. God, in chapter 4, has a conversation with Jonah and chastises him for his attitude. How often do we need to realize our attitude, ask forgiveness, and turn from our "evil" attitude/way.?
My attitude adjustment usually comes in the form of a human, my spouse. She is a godly woman and does hold my feet to the fire. How about you? Where are you today? Thanks for reading. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
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