5 “The Ninevites believed God. They declared a fast, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. 10 When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he had compassion and did not bring upon them the destruction he had threatened.” Jonah 3:5 & 10 (NIV)
Since childhood, most of us have known the story of Jonah and the whale. It is the story of a rebellious preacher, but what are the issues behind his rebellion?
The story begins with a society that became so ungodly that God could not ignore it and decided that such ungodliness must be destroyed. Yet, God is compassionate and merciful, not willing that anyone should perish. So, he sent Jonah to warn this society of its impending doom.
This is where most people get sidetracked. The rebellious preacher in the whale’s belly is a great story but it is not THE story. The critical issue is this: a society of people are about to experience the wrath of God. Jonah is only God’s tool of mercy. The whale is only God’s tool of discipline. Jonah is concerned about his reputation as a prophet. God is concerned about a society of people that has incurred his wrath.
To their credit, the Ninevites believed God. This fact is evidence that Jonah’s reputation was not in question. He warned . . . They believed! Belief without corresponding action, however, is dead being alone. The Ninevites did what was necessary to prove their belief. They prayed, fasted, and turned from their evil ways, which was the issue and God’s desire from the beginning.
O that America would follow the Ninevite example! Where are the people who will repent and fast and pray to turn away God’s wrath?
Dear Father, thank you for grace and mercy. Have mercy on us O Lord. Forgive us our sins and help us turn from our wicked ways. Revive America again! I ask this in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today as you pray for America,