Monday, November 3, 2014

"Jonah Finally Understands" - a message from Jonah 4

Jonah's book may have the most abrupt ending of any in the Bible.  It feels like the last line should be, "To Be Continued".  Yet, upon further study, we see how God says all he needs to say to Jonah to get Jonah up to speed concerning what the Lord is doing vis a vis Nineveh.

If you have ever asked yourself (or God) the question, "What is God doing?" or thought, "I do not understand what God is doing", then you'll be blessed by this message.  I have to confess... I do NOT always understand what God is doing or allowing, particularly when a situation is confusing or hurtful.  If you've ever felt that way, then you and Jonah have a lot in common.

My prayer is that Jesus will use this message in your life, and the Holy Spirit will speak clearly to you. We may not always understand at a given moment what God is doing, but He still has a word for us, even in THOSE moments.

May God bless you as you listen and respond to His Word. - Kirk McCormick



In this passage…God is saying to Jonah…

…Let me be God.


Jonah 4:4 – “But the Lord replied, ‘Have you any right to be angry?’”

Point:  We may not understand what God is doing – though we may
later/after … but  the truth is…
God owes no explanation.

Proverbs 19:21 - “We may make a lot of plans, but the Lord will do what He has decided.” (CEV)


God is saying to Jonah…Trust me.

** Ever notice that sometimes God’s purpose for our lives is accomplished not by delivering us out of our difficulties but by leading us through them.

Jonah 4:10 – “The Lord said, ‘You have been concerned about this vine, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight.’”

Point: Trust is Opportunity’s response to crisis.

Job 13:15 - “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him.” (KJV)



God is saying to Jonah…
I want the best for everyone.

But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well.

…then the punch line…

Jonah 4:11b – “Should I not be concerned about that great city?”

Matthew 5:44 – Jesus said,  “Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!” (NLT)

Point: Pray for your Enemies/Adversaries.



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