I've known of this bible story all my life, but was so shocked towards the end of the book to see what a temper tantrum Jonah was throwing as God gave compassion toward the ninevites for their earnest repentance.
In chapter 4 verse 3 Jonah even spouts off "Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live."
I think it is a common misconception to think that the prophets, disciples, apostles and other leaders written about in the bible where perfect, God following, God fearing, Christian super heros. Of coarse, we know that isn't true, but something about Jonah having this verbal outburst directly to God really grabbed my attention.
For days I tossed this whole thing around in my mind.
Why did he run away? Why was he so angry?
Why in the world would a prophet of God be angry that God showed mercy on a city of people who had complete repentance?
As I researched further in one of my bible reference guide's I found more bad news for Jonah's rep. This particular guide describes Jonah as a proud, self-centered egotist: willful, pouting, jealous, bloodthirsty & without proper respect for God.
Um. Whoa.
Through this whole ordeal I was judging Jonah. I couldn't believe how he was talking to God! I was wondering how I missed that the other times I had read the book?
God quickly reminded me how all too common this behavior is.
Christians are not perfect.
Never have been.
NEVER WILL BE.
Who was I to judge Jonah?
Who are we to judge anyone at all for that matter?
Should a Christian do their best to follow the example Christ set? Well of coarse!
Should a Christian repent and ask God for forgiveness when they fall short of that? Yes again!
Christians who mess up are not mearly "hypocrites". They are people. They are human. They mess up just like every other person who still lives on this earth today. Stop being so critical of your neighbor. Remember people all have a different cross to carry. They have hurts, baggage, and strongholds that may not look like yours. I have a sign in the front hallway of my salon that sums this up short & sweet..
"Don't judge someone because they sin different than you."
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your word and what it teaches us. Continue to grow us in your ways. Allow us to go to the deeper places with you Lord. Give us wisdom and discernment as we seek you more and more. I ask father that you use this message to minister to all those who read it. Show them anywhere in their own life where they have judged too quickly. Help them to look upon the people in their lives with your eyes, mercy and grace. Let us love like you love. Let us see like you see. Let us do like you do. We love you Lord. Forgive us where we fall short. In Jesus precious name I pray. Amen
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. -Romans 3:23
Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and
you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. -Luke 6:37
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